As women, we have a hormonal cycle that is present for most of our lives. Instead of dreading the  week when Aunt Flow decides to make her appearance, I've realized there are things that I can do to make life easier. If you've never heard of cycle training, it's basically the idea that at certain times of the month, your needs change. This makes sense when you consider a typical female's hormones cycle monthly, not daily.

Men are completely different from women, especially in the area of hormones. Their hormones reset each day, which is where the 9-5 work day came from. They go through an entire cycle in about 24 hours, compared to women who have cycles lasting 25 days or more. 

Mensuration This part of your cycle is usually days 0-7. Rest. Rest. REST! If you are feeling extra tired, listen to your body and rest. 

Diet: Reduce carbs & sugar so you don't feel extra bloated. Eat berries for a treat to load up on antioxidants. Dark chocolate is also a healthy option. Eggs are a great source of protein this phase also. 

Things that speak to you during this phase:

• napping
• self care
• journaling
• processing/deep thinking

This is an excellent time to add some soothing essential oils to your diffuser, such as Lavender, Stress Away, Peace & Calming, and/or Frankincense. 

One product I recently discovered is period underwear. I don't know why I didn't try it sooner, because it is a game changer! My favorite is Thinx sleep shorts. They are so comfortable and hold a ton of volume without being really bulky. They are shorts with undies attached, so you can literally wear them around the house. Check it out here. Thinx has all different kinds of products, but the sleep shorts are my fav. Their period underwear works really well, but it is too bulky for my liking. 

Another company I discovered is Knix. They also have sleep shorts, but they call them dream shorts. Great coverage and fit more like leggins style. They have lots of other products, including period underwear. I really like their underwear because the coverage is amazing and they are made of thin material. They dry a lot quicker compared to Thinx. Use my link to get $20 off your first order! Grab yours here.

Follicular Phase is next, usually days 8-14. This is your PLANNING stage. This is the energy phase. Push yourself. Work on tough projects, exercise a little bit longer.

Diet: increase carbs.

Things that speak to you during this phase:

• planning (meals, month, trips, etc.)
• being creative
• brainstorming
• creating vision boards

Here's another great time to grab some Stress Away! If you get a little carried away and exercise a little too hard, Deep Relief may come to your rescue!

Ovulatory Phase comes next, usually days 14-21. This phase is all about CONNECTION. 

You have the highest body temperature, sex drive, and testosterone levels during this time. Be careful not to get overheated during exercise.

Ovulation triggers production of progesterone - no ovulation means low levels & nothing to balance estrogen.  

Diet: more protein, less carbs 

Things that speak to you during this phase:

• catch up with friends in person or over the phone
• intimate time with husband
• doing things outside
• exercise
• dancing

Luteal Phase is the last week, usually days 22-28. During this phase, common PMS symptoms may arise. I love to use the blend, Dragon Time for all the hormonal challenges. Focus on self care, soothing exercises, stress relief, and no fasting. 

Diet: more protein to build up iron for next phase, peppermint tea, less caffeine, less sugar

Things that speak to you during this phase:

• making lists
• organizing the house (almost like nesting)
• cleaning out closets
• quiet time/alone time
• finishing up projects, tie up loose ends
• set goals

For more information about women's hormones, here's a slideshow.