A Period is much more than the days we are “on our period” its called a menstrual cycle as it is truly a cycle with different phases that effect our bodies and minds differently at each stage of the cycle.

There are 4 stages of this cycle, often referred to as spring, summer, autumn and winter like the seasons of the year, or energy levels change as we move through the stages. In an ideal cycle, the Menstrual phase starts on day 1 of the menstrual cycle(the first day of your period). In this phase the uterine lining is shed and discharged from the body in the form of a bleed. The pituitary gland begins to make FSH & LH hormones to stimulate growth of new follicles (eggs). Progesterone and oestrogen levels are at their lowest, and we can feel at our lowest energy wise, very fatigued with mood changes and pain. This is sometimes referred to in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as the winter phase and like this season we can feel like hibernating, crave sugars, and comfort foods and be drawn to keeping warm and cosy. It a great time to focus our energy inwards to reflection.

At our next stage, when we have stopped bleeding our body prepares for the next egg and we have the follicular phase which is marked by the slow increase in oestrogen again in preparation for ovulation. This phase also called the spring phase can be noted by us feeling more energised, focused, creative, and able to take on a challenge. We feel we have a new lease of life, our mood improves, symptoms can start to abate, we have a spring in our step and our skin is brighter.

Following this we move into the ovulatory phase or summer time. At this stage oestrogen is at its highest and we are at our most fertile stage. LH hormone surges, which triggers the release of the egg from the dominant follicle. Energy should be at its peak here, it is a great time socialise and connect with peers, we have an increase metabolic rate and feel powerful. But when imbalance occurs, we really can feel tired and lack motivation.

In our final phase the Luteal phase or autumn phase like the weather there can be lots of change and turmoil from wind and rain to cold and sun, hormone levels start to rise and fall dramatically and PMS kicks in. We should nest & rest, manager stress and be kind to ourselves. The corpus luteum which is like the shell of the egg begins to secrete progesterone which is known as the calming hormone and this will cause our temperate to increase and further changes to the uterine lining. The egg travels down the fallopian tube and if fertilization does not occur the uterus lining will shed in winter, and the cycle starts all over again.

But many factors can affect all these hormonal stages or seasons and production and levels of hormones and throw these seasons out of kilter. Low energy is a huge feature of hormone imbalance. Look to reduce sugar intake and empty calorie foods such as pastries which contribute no valuable nutrients to our diet along with increasing B vitamins such as Vitamin B6 which contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity, supporting energy production and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. These B vitamins are water soluble and we need a daily supply of them to fuel our body if you find this difficult try add Cleanmarine PeriodPlan which is a unique all in one, scientifically formulated supplement with has key ingredients to support mind, skin, energy and hormones all month long.