Many women experience so-called 'mood swings' during their cycle but cannot properly pinpoint their cause. How great is it, then, to be able to compare the different phases of your cycle with the 4 seasons and their characteristics? Read in this blog which hormones can influence your mood and needs, and what to do about mood swings during menstruation!
The Menstrual Cycle
A hormonal cycle lasts an average of 28 days and goes through 4 phases each time. These phases can be compared to the 4 seasons, which you can read more about in this blog.
Wintertime: During your menstruation week, you are in the winter phase; your hormone levels are at their lowest point, and you may experience less energy. In this week, it's nice to focus on yourself and let everything else be. Of course, you cannot simply ignore all your responsibilities, but prioritize what is truly important and take time to feel what is happening in your body. What is your body telling you? What do you find important? What do you need? In tranquility, the best ideas often emerge, and you become aware of your internal processes. Just as animals retreat into their shells to rest in winter, this is also the right time for you to consciously slow down.
Spring Fever: When your menstruation is over, spring begins. This season is known for growth, blossoming, and new ideas. Estrogen increases, and you may notice that you have more energy. You are getting closer to ovulation, and just before it starts, a little testosterone is added. You feel like doing more (new) things, your libido increases, and you gain more self-confidence. This is the time to write down your new ideas and get to work on them. The spring of your cycle is therefore perfect for exploring, learning, and planning social engagements.
Summertime: Once ovulation is over, your estrogen level is at its peak. You feel on top of the world,you radiate and feel good. Schedule plenty of fun appointments this week; you have enough energy for them. During this period, also ensure you spend enough time and attention on your partner. Your libido is high, and this is the week you could conceive…
Autumn Period: During this period, your estrogen levels drop, so it's good to take it a bit easier. This way, you can prepare yourself as best as possible for the approaching menstruation. You may notice during this period that you feel less well, have regular headaches, experience mood swings, and are emotional. If you recognize yourself in this, it could be a sign that your hormones are out of balance. It's beneficial to support your hormonal balance with sufficient nutrients and possibly supplement with supplements, especially during this period.
At the end of your cycle, before your menstruation starts again, it's good to reflect on what went well and what might still need some attention. This way, you can focus on these aspects at the start of a new cycle. Are you not entirely sure about your cycle and what it looks like? Keep a diary for a few months or use an app or cycle tracker.
What to do about mood swings during menstruation?
The following list can help you optimize your mood during each phase!
Winter - menstrual phase (3 to 7 days)
- Increased need for warmth
- Estrogen and progesterone hormones at their lowest point
- Less energy and focus
- Greater need for me-time, less need for social engagements
- More sensitive, both physically and mentally
Spring - follicular phase (7 to 10 days)
- Estrogen hormone rises
- More energy
- More desire for the outside world and social engagements
- A good time to develop new ideas
- More self-confidence
- Libido increases
Summer - ovulation (3 to 4 days)
- Estrogen hormone at its highest point
- Plenty of energy and self-confidence
- More curiosity and a strong desire to go out
- More creativity and a desire to tackle new things
- This is the moment for important presentations and meetings
- High libido
Autumn - luteal phase (10 - 14 days)
- Estrogen hormone drops very rapidly
- Progesterone hormone is produced
- Energy level decreases
- Increased need to slow down and stay with yourself
- Sometimes a bit more emotional and gloomy
- PMS symptoms when your body is out of balance
- Libido decreases
Curious how you can adapt your sports regimen to each phase? You can read about it here!
