A few months ago, I was talking to my homegirl about how tired I was and how I feel my energy levels shift throughout the month. One week I’ll be bouncing around like I’ve had 10 Celsius energy drinks and the next, I’ll be taking naps throughout the day like a 5-year-old child. I didn’t know what to do with this information, but I knew that my productivity levels were affected by it.
I don’t know exactly how the stars aligned, but one day I was scrolling through Instagram and stumbled on the term “cycle syncing.” After reading more articles- my mouth dropped to the floor. I turned to my dog, as she was the only one with me at the time, and said “This is what I needed!”
For many women, the menstrual cycle oftentimes becomes more of a burden than anything else. We never know what to do with it. Energy levels fluctuate throughout the month, random attitudes fly at innocent bystanders, bloating alters the fit of our clothes, period shows up at the wrong time, accidents destroy our favorite outfits, and then sometimes she even has the nerve to bring her uninvited friend “Cramps” to the party. (and yes, that run-on sentence was needed for dramatic effect)
Society often overlooks the many benefits of a woman’s menstrual cycle and treats this cycle as an inconvenience rather than an opportunity to be your most productive self. Most women weren’t taught how to live with their cycle. Just taught how to maintain those 5 days during our period. But in my research, I’ve found that when we start diving in and understanding each phase of the menstrual cycle, we can intentionally synchronize our activities, conversations, and rest in order to be our most productive selves. Keep scrolling to learn more about the menstrual phases and how you can start to use each phase to your advantage!
1. Menstrual Phase (part of follicular phase)
Days: usually between days 1 and 5 of your menstrual cycle
When is this? This phase begins on the first day of your period and lasts until the end of your period.
Productivity Tips:
- Self-Reflection and Goal-Setting: The menstrual phase is a time of reflection. This is a great time to review the past month, set goals, and plan for the month ahead.
- Self-care: Since many women experience fatigue or discomfort, prioritize self-care and lighter tasks.
- Delegate: If possible, delegate demanding tasks and avoid making major decisions. Your body is in recovery; give it the space to do so.
2. Follicular Phase
Days: usually between days 6 and 14 of your menstrual cycle
When is this? The follicular phase begins after menstruation and ends when ovulation starts.
Productivity Tips:
- Begin New Projects: With rising estrogen levels, you’re likely to feel a boost in energy and mood. Use this phase to kick off new projects.
- Brainstorm & Create: The increase in energy and optimism makes it a great time for brainstorming and collaborative efforts.
- Physical Activity: This is a good phase to start a new fitness regimen or challenge yourself physically.
3. Ovulatory Phase
Days: usually between days 15 – 17 of your menstrual cycle
When is this? This is when ovulation occurs, typically around day 14 of the cycle.
Productivity Tips:
- Communicate & Collaborate: As you approach your peak estrogen levels, you might find yourself more social and articulate. This is a good time for presentations, meetings, and networking events.
- Decision-making: With heightened cognitive abilities, this phase can be the best for making big decisions.
- Engage in High-Energy Tasks: Your physical energy is also likely at its peak, making it a good time for demanding tasks.
4. Luteal Phase
Days: usually between days 18 and 28 of your menstrual cycle
When is this? After ovulation, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If you don’t get pregnant, the menstrual cycle starts again.
Productivity Tips:
- Focus on Completion: As your energy begins to decrease, it’s a good time to wrap up projects and tasks.
- Organize and Declutter: Nesting instincts might kick in, making this an optimal time for organizing your workspace or home.
- Check-in with Yourself: Mood swings or PMS might be more prevalent during this phase. Be aware of your emotions, and consider activities like meditation or journaling to process and express feelings.
Every woman has a cycle unique to her, and understanding the phases can be a game-changing tool to use as we navigate life. By syncing activities with the natural rhythms of the body, women can unlock a new level of productivity and well-being. Always remember to listen to your body, and adjust based on your personal experiences and needs.
My sources are below! Click the links to check out their take on cycle syncing!
Healthline – A blog post that goes into more detail about each phase and includes how you can use cycle syncing to better manage your fitness goals, nutritional habits, and bedroom fun!
Cleveland Clinic – A blog post that shows the best diet for each menstrual cycle phase.
Lynette Adkins – A content creator who breaks down how cycle syncing has changed her life- get into her channel! She has so many great vids!
Had you ever heard of cycle syncing before? Do you plan on giving it a try? Let me know in the comments!
Absolutely had never heard of cycle syncing before and now I am grateful I have because I am in the later portions if mtmy menstrual phase and I now I am excited to know I will soon have the energy I’m lacking for my new tasks I’ve been working on. It also will help me manifest productivity in those days bc u will be expecting the energy to do it. Good read! Thanks. I took notes. lol
Yesss, I’m so excited you found this helpful! I had never heard of it before either, but since I’ve started cycle syncing- I’ve been soooo much more productive. Cheers to all the shxt we get done now that we know!