Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle

Women.. Let’s be real: most of us didn’t get much more than a quick slideshow and an awkward health class when it came to learning about our periods. But understanding your menstrual cycle is so much more than tracking when your period starts and stops.

It affects your mood, your energy, your focus – and learning to recognise the patterns can help you feel more in sync with your body, not at war with it.

The 4 Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

The average cycle is about 28 days, but anything between 21–35 days is considered ‘regular’. Here’s a quick breakdown of what happens during each phase, and how you might feel.

1. Menstruation (~Days 1–5)

This is when your period starts. Hormone levels are at their lowest, which can mean low energy, fatigue, or a dip in mood. It’s normal to want more rest during this time.

2. Follicular Phase (~Days 1–13, overlaps with menstruation)

Estrogen begins rising, and your body starts prepping to release an egg. You may notice your energy and mood naturally lifting. This phase can feel fresh, light, and creative.

3. Ovulation (~Day 14)

Estrogen peaks, and you may feel more energized, confident, and social. Libido can spike, and this is often when you feel most “on.”  This is the best time to train hard & go for a new PR 😉

4. Luteal Phase (~Days 15–28ish)

Progesterone increases, and things start to slow down. PMS symptoms can show up here – changes in mood, bloating, fatigue, and irritability. You may feel the need to pull back, rest, and get cozy.

Why This Matters

Your cycle is more than just your period – it’s a powerful, natural rhythm that influences your entire month. When you start to track and understand it, you can:

• Plan your workouts and social time around your energy
• Be more compassionate with yourself when things feel off
• Work with your body instead of pushing against it

We weren’t taught enough about this growing up, but it’s never too late to learn.
Your body is always talking to you – it’s your responsibility to listen & nourish it.