Go with the Flow

This article has been researched and written by Arelang Naturals^® in-house writers.

The menstrual cycle is like nature’s clockwork that women experience every month. But what if instead of fighting our bodies’ natural rhythms with synthetics hormones and home made remedies, we started working with them? From the energetic high of the follicular phase to the inward focus of the menstrual phase, each part of the cycle brings its own strengths (and sometimes, challenges). The key is to understand your body, its abilities and its limitations, its ups and lows. Making small shifts in our lifestyle to align our daily actions with these natural phases of the month, and understanding the powerful role of hormones, we can harness each cycle’s unique strengths to thrive.

The Phases of the Menstrual Cycle: A Quick Breakdown

Every menstrual cycle has four key phases, each with a unique hormonal balance that shapes our experiences, energies and needs. Here’s a breakdown of how these hormones influence us:

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5):

Hormones: Low levels of estrogen and progesterone
At the start of our cycle, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, prompting the uterine lining to shed. This dip in hormones can cause lower energy, signalling the body to rest and reflect. During this phase, our brains’ right and left hemispheres become more in sync, promoting deep intuition and creative insights. It’s an ideal time for journaling, envisioning goals and recharging, allowing our minds to enter the next phase with renewed clarity.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 6-14):

Hormones: Rising estrogen and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
After menstruation, estrogen levels begin to rise, thickening the uterine lining and preparing for ovulation. Estrogen’s mood-boosting properties enhance our focus, creativity and sociability, making this phase perfect for brainstorming, starting new projects and connecting with others. The “feel-good” effects of estrogen also boost our verbal skills and confidence, providing a natural lift in productivity and positivity.

3. Ovulatory Phase (Around Day 14):

Hormones: Surge of luteinizing hormone (LH), high estrogen and rising testosterone.
The surge in LH triggers the release of an egg, while high levels of estrogen and testosterone peak. These hormones amplify energy, confidence and communication skills, helping us feel our most magnetic and expressive. During ovulation, we’re primed for high-energy tasks, networking and self-assertion—an ideal time for important conversations, leadership activities, or stepping into the spotlight. Physical energy and mood are at their peak, allowing us to maximise this brief, powerful window of drive and charisma.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28):

Hormones: Rising progesterone and moderate estrogen
As the body prepares for a possible pregnancy, progesterone levels increase, promoting calm and grounding. Estrogen remains moderate, supporting emotional stability. Progesterone is known for its soothing, anti-anxiety effects, making it a great time for winding down, completing projects and focusing on organisation. It is a phase when Premenstrual Symptoms (PMS) sets in if the hormones fluctuate alot. The luteal phase is also when we tend to be more introspective and detail-oriented, encouraging self-care practices and reflection. If conception doesn’t occur, both progesterone and estrogen drop toward the end of this phase, setting the stage for the next cycle.

The fluctuations in the hormones are not just biological; they serve as natural “guides” that align us with different energies. Estrogen and testosterone boost physical energy and confidence, making us more outward and expressive, while progesterone encourages calm, inward reflection, helping us stay balanced. The peaks and valleys allow our bodies and minds to engage in a full spectrum of activities, from creative brainstorming to introspective reflection and intense focus.

Understanding how these hormones influence our strengths helps us harness each phase’s unique power. Rather than seeing our cycle as something to manage or ignore, we can embrace it as a roadmap, guiding us toward optimal health, self-awareness, and productivity.

But, understanding the best support during each phase of the cycle is very crucial…

It’s all about tuning in and adjusting your lifestyle to match your body’s needs. Here’s how to optimize each phase:

Nutrition: Your diet plays a key role in supporting your cycle. During the follicular and ovulation phases, focus on light, energy-boosting foods like fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. During the luteal and menstrual phases, lean towards warm, comforting foods that reduce inflammation and ease cramps. Along With food, one must consider taking natural aids like Rekindle for Women dark chocolates which is crafted with ingredients like Soya isoflavone, Shatavari, Flax seeds, Ginseng, Saffron and others to support the phases of the menstrual cycle providing the right nutrition that your bodies need. What better indulgence is there than dark chocolate during periods? Not only does it satisfy cravings, but it also supports hormonal leaps and falls.

Exercise: As your energy levels fluctuate, so should your workouts. High-intensity exercises are great during the first half of your cycle, but as you approach the luteal and menstrual phases, switch to yoga, walking, or other gentle forms of movement. This is also a good time to focus on rest.

Self-Care: Hormonal fluctuations can impact mood, especially during the luteal and menstrual phases. Think of self-care as essential maintenance, not a luxury. Light a candle, take a warm bath or practice some deep breathing. Rekindle for Women can help support your happy hormones during this time, reducing PMS symptoms and keeping you balanced.

The cycles are part of an ancient wisdom guiding us to sync with our body’s needs. By recognizing the natural ebb and flow of each phase, we can design our routines to celebrate energy, productivity, calm and self-care in perfect harmony. Rather than going against the tide, let’s go with the flow and experience life in tune with natural period aids like Rekindle for Women with each beautiful phase.

This holistic, hormone-led approach lets us work smarter, rest better and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives, one cycle at a time. 🌸