Embodying and healing your menstrual cycle
Dive into the enchanting world of your menstrual cycle as we guide you through its various phases and energies. Learn how to embrace a slower pace of life, cultivate mindfulness, and nurture yourself during each cycle phase. Join us on this empowering journey to embody and heal your menstrual cycle.
The menstrual cycle is more than just a monthly event; it's a powerful indicator of overall health and well-being. In fact, our menstrual cycles are intricately connected to various aspects of our lives, including our energetic cycles and infradian rhythms. By understanding and harnessing the energies associated with each phase of our cycles, we can live a healthier, more fulfilling life in sync with our bodies.
The menstrual cycle consists of two main phases, follicular and luteal. These can each be broken down further into two more to give us the following four energetic phases: menstruation, pre-ovulation, post-ovulation, and pre-menstruation. Often you’ll also see the menstrual cycle broken down into menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. The Baba Yaga deviates slightly from this model, because ovulation is more of a cycle-defining event, not necessarily an entire phase itself.
Either way, each phase brings unique characteristics and energies that can significantly impact our physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
1
The menstrual phase, associated with release and renewal, offers an opportunity for self-care, and also invites us to start over fresh and embody our monthly rebirth. It is a great time to manifest and plan.
2
The pre-ovulatory phase represents growth and action. This phase of the menstrual cycle is your execution phase, you start turning your plans into a reality. One step at a time, you work towards your dreams.
3
Ovulation and the potentially fertile days around it can mark a peak moment for a lot of cycling people, but it’s important to remember that not everyone is the same. Ovulation will usually always mark a turning point in the menstrual cycle, however. So, if during the first half, the follicular phase, you felt high-vibe and extroverted, the luteal phase is more inward-facing and slow. Whereas, if your first half feels lower and more introverted, your ovulation can actually bring about an uplift of energy and mood during your luteal phase. This all depends on your individual hormone sensitivity.
4
The post-ovulatory phase embodies letting go of expectations and control. It’s an invitation to re-prioritize your priorities and double down on what’s most important to you.
5
The pre-menstrual phase brings even more introspection and a strong need for self-nurturing. It’s the slowest part of your menstrual cycle and invites you to surrender to your inner “dark side”.
By recognizing and embracing the energies of each phase, we can navigate our cycles with mindfulness and purpose.
To fully embody and heal our menstrual cycles, it is essential to cultivate awareness for and practice mindfulness differently during each phase. By connecting with our bodies and observing the subtle changes that occur throughout the month, we can better understand our needs and adapt our self-care routines accordingly. We are not the same every single week, sometimes not even every single day. Just acknowledging this fact can provide us with healing.
We can take cues from different models of the menstrual cycle: the metaphor of inner moon phases or that of inner seasons can be helpful tools. But above all, it’s crucial to keep checking in with yourself and to not force any practice just because some cycle syncing model tells you to do a certain thing - including the Baba Yaga’s! Self-autonomy should always come first.
During the menstrual phase, gentle exercises, nurturing foods, and restorative practices can support the body's natural detoxification process. In the pre-ovulatory phase, we can focus on nurturing new ideas and creating momentum. Ovulation itself can call for self-expression, sensual practices, and engaging activities that bring joy. Lastly, the entire luteal phase centers on releasing control and ending things: it is a good time to set and honor our boundaries, manage stress, and engage in somatic release practices. Feel your feelings!
In folklore and mythology, Baba Yaga, an ancient feminine archetype, holds deep wisdom associated with the cycles of transformation. Her connection to the menstrual cycle is a testament to the power and mystique that surround it. Baba Yaga embodies the cyclical nature of life, representing both the wild and wise aspects of our biology. As we explore her story, we gain insights into the archetypal significance of the menstrual cycle and the transformative potential it holds. Baba Yaga's wisdom reminds us to honor and embrace the cyclical nature of our bodies, ultimately leading to a more harmonious and empowered existence.
To fully integrate Baba Yaga's wisdom into our menstrual cycles, we must recognize and honor the healing powers that reside within us. Our menstrual cycles are not something to be endured but can become something to be embraced and celebrated. By shifting our perspective and viewing the cycle as a source of strength, intuition, and renewal, we can tap into its transformative potential. Rituals inspired by Baba Yaga, such as creating sacred spaces, connecting with nature, or practicing ancient arts, can enhance our well-being and deepen our understanding of ourselves. Embracing these practices can help us reclaim our power and live more authentically in alignment with our cycles.
Your menstrual cycle is a physical vital sign, an energetic compass, and can even become the source of your self-empowerment. Because choosing a slower & cyclical life, is an act of rebellion in a world that centers the daily grind & hustle. So, join us today and download our app to embrace the power of your menstrual cycle and unlock the secrets to living a healthier, happier, and slower cyclical life.