Cultivating a menstrual cycle awareness practise and a mindful connection to each stage of our cycle can add another depth of dimension to our physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
The inner autumn of the cycle (pre menstruation) can be challenging for many women struggling with what is known as PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). PMS can have a serious impact on our ability to function at work, relationships and our mental wellbeing.
For me, the inner autumn can look like this:
Physically: I feel slow, achy and noticeable reduction in my energy levels.
Intellectually: I am sharpness in my thinking, blunt/direct in my speech and I can be critical of myself and others.
Emotionally: there is a bubbling of irritation, impatience and overwhelm
Spiritually: I feel detached from those around me as my attention turn inwards, seeking isolation, quietness and reflection.
To honour the gifts of the inner autumn, we are called to retreat from the business of life and pay attention to what may be coming up in this season of the cycle.
Self care in the inner autumn can look like this:
🌹 Being measured in interactions, listen more and talk less. This reduces the chances of being impulsive and saying something that will be regretted later.
🌹Kindly decline social events especially in the evening. Responding to that call of our inner self, seeking isolation and spending the evening alone in a quiet and calm environment will really nourish us the part of us thats attention.
🌹 Tidy and organise the physical space. This is a classic gift of the inner autumn which helps to make me feel calm, clear and relaxed.
🌹 Get an early night as many nights as possible. The sleep will help to reduce feelings of anxiety and low energy experienced in the inner autumn.
🌹 The inner autumn is a time when we can come into contact with the emotional impact of our unmet needs. This is a perfect opportunity to explore what these needs are, listen to we need and ask for it, or implement a plan to feel supported by ourselves and the people around us.
Have you tried tracking the inner seasonal cycles of your period?
It can be as simple as recording a few words about how you are feeling physically, intellectually, emotionally and spiritually every day. Over time, your cycle will reveal a pattern and it's wisdom to you.
Peace and blessings,
Suad
Image: Pixabay