HARNESS YOUR POWER
HOW TO MAKE YOUR MONTHLY CYCLE A WHOLE LOT BETTER
If you dread your period coming as it signals bloating, pain, overeating and a general irritation at the world, you need to read sexual health educator Lucy Peach’s new book Period Queen. Peach delves deep into the four different phases of the menstrual cycle (which she names Dream, Do, Give and Take) and walks you through the strengths and benefits of each. “It’s time to shift period shame to period pride,” she says. Here’s her guide to the ‘Take Phase’ (AKA the premenstrual week).
The Take Phase FROM DAY 20/23 UNTIL DAY 28/31 (THE DAY BEFORE YOU BLEED)
I often realise I’ve moved into the Take phase when I hurt myself. I bang my hip on the kitchen bench or I stub my toe. Possibly I incur these injuries more frequently when entering the kitchen at speed because I’m so starving. I need to snack at the fridge. Give yourself a rub and SLOW down; it’s time to take it easier.
Remember, there are high levels of inflammatory proteins called prostaglandins circulating in your bloodstream right now. They are necessary – eventually causing the breakdown of your endometrial lining so you’ll have a period – but they also affect the rest of your body. This is why you can feel a bit loose in the tummy and maybe even like you have a mild head cold.
The increased sensitivity associated with this phase also means your pain threshold is lower and your senses are more liable to feel overloaded. Lights are too bright and everything sounds louder. You’re also more likely to get sick now because your immune system is at its weakest, so it’s important to take better care of yourself than usual, both physically and mentally.
Your superpower is …
Heightened emotions and desire to explore your inner self make this a very creative time. You are letting go of everything else and turning your focus inward. The intensity of this phase makes it very powerful.
Use your power to …
• Take stock of feelings that are weighing you down
• Face the darkest parts of yourself
• Channel big feelings into creative endeavours. Give yourself permission to make a mess!
• Feel fierce in the best way, take time alone and enjoy some independence
• Stand up for yourself
Feed yourself like you are your own child
There is no hunger like the hunger of a premenstrual woman. This is not the time to deny yourself – your sky-rocketing metabolism demands more food than you needed last week. If you aim to fill up on healthy foods first, you won’t be as susceptible to junk food cravings and your body will thank you.
You can help your body metabolise hormones (and lessen PMS symptoms) by getting enough fibre from vegetables and drinking plenty of water. If you need more support with symptoms, try taking daily supplements of magnesium and B6 as well as filling your own dark-chocolate prescription (you’re welcome).