Menstruation is just a part of life for menstruating people. But how often do many of us wish not to have them in order to be spared from the emotional fluctuations and complaints that arise during a cycle – especially during the luteal phase, the inner fall? In the last few years, I’ve learned for myself that there is a great – partly still undiscovered – potential in all the parts of our cycle, even this one.

In this article, we will take a look at the third phase of the cycle, which is still rather unpopular, so I hope to be able to give you one or two positive aspects to consider by the end. Because, to be honest, our cycle is part of us, whether we want it or not. That is why we should also accept it and use it for ourselves ♡

It is extremely important to note that I am not a doctor. In this article, I share my own experiences, observations, and what I have learned from reading. I also assume a 28-day cycle, but each cycle varies individually between 21 or 37 days, which is completely normal.

The Model of the Annual Cycle

Maybe some of you know this model. It assigns each cycle phase to a specific season.

According to this, spring begins as soon as the bleeding has stopped and ends when the follicle has matured. Our energy level increases slowly at the same time. Summer begins around the period of ovulation, i.e. two days before and after – this is also the time when we often have the most energy available. We want to go out, meet friends, be active. As is well known, summer is followed by autumn, which lasts until the bleeding begins. This period is also called the luteal phase, and PMS can appear here. Winter is the time from day 1 of the bleeding and lasts until around day 7, when the bleeding stops.

Like the seasons in nature, we can apply certain things to our cycle. This is especially the case when we talk about our energy reserves. During spring, the world slowly wakes up and our energies do the same: we wake up from our hibernation. In summer, we are bursting with energy and in autumn, when the leaves change color in nature and start to fall, we prepare for the rest phase in winter.

This description is explained more like a picture book; it is of course not the same for every person. But it gives us a vague glimpse of what is going on.

The Fall

This is the time after ovulation, when the follicle has burst and the egg makes its way through the Fallopian tubes and into the uterus. During this time, our body does a lot, consuming a lot of energy and therefore needing more rest (as we prepare for “winter”).

In order to be able to understand this on a physiological level, here is a little explanation about what exactly happens in the body during this time: between days 15 and 28, the egg cell makes its way towards the uterus. At the same time, the remnant of the follicle which stayed in the ovary develops into the corpus luteum with the help of LH. The corpus luteum produces progesterone, the dominant hormone in the second half of the cycle. The estrogen level drops while the progesterone rises, ensuring that the mucous membrane is prepared for the egg cell to implant should a pregnancy occur. Among other things, it also triggers the cervical mucous to become viscous again and thus shortens the survival time of the sperm. If the egg cell is not fertilized, the corpus luteum regresses, the progesterone level drops and menstruation begins.

Emotions during the Fall

Fall is the time of transition. Just like in nature, it can easily become (emotionally) quick-tempered and stormy. Golden autumn days full of sun and dark rain clouds that predict storms are both a part of the whole, and I think they each have their positive aspects.

This time is particularly difficult for many, especially when we do not “like” our environment and because of this resort to addressing certain unpleasant topics. At this time, we often fail to meet the expectations of the society as “peace-loving and (for)giving” women. That is exactly why I think this time is so great. It can lead to something very powerful and strong.

However, if we try to suppress our body’s needs and requests for more rest and more emotional attention, emotions such as anger and dissatisfaction can become very loud. Because our needs want to be heard. If we don’t allow them to be heard, we might eventually explode.

Strong emotional fluctuations and pain can occur during this time, known as PMS (Premenstrual Symptoms). These symptoms are often associated with a progesterone deficiency, as progesterone has a calming effect on our organism. That is why we long for more rest. There are already some great alternative practitioners and doctors who are familiar with it. If you want to feel more equipped to handle this circumstance, it can be useful to get help ♡

Reclaim Your Time

As mentioned before, I love the fall. And by that, I don’t just mean the play of colors and the different weather conditions of the season, but above all the cycle phase – even with the moods and emotions that come to the forefront. It can be a challenge to classify all of this, but if we consciously make ourselves a priority and withdraw when necessary, it can be a very powerful and clearing time in which we get to know ourselves better.

It can therefore be helpful to use this time for reflection in order to consciously give your inner voice its space. As already mentioned, we have very good access to the inner world here.

Before I give you some questions for reflection & inspiration, here’s a little tip: if you need to make big decisions during this time, take time to “let them sink in” and wait another cycle before you emigrate, end relationships or the like. Because sometimes hidden behind bigger feelings are just small changes or unspoken needs ☺

Questions for Reflection:

• Which topics are present and what is bothering me? Is it possible to note that there is something that I no longer want? Partnership, work, heartache for the state of the world, hopelessness?
• Which feelings are present? And what is hidden beneath those feelings? What is bothering me?
• What exactly do I want to do or observe in order to change something? It’s best to choose *one* thing that is most important to you at this time.
• Do I dare to tell my family and partner what my needs are as well as what doesn’t serve me?
• Working on topics in a partnership: can’t I just be that way? What if I am who I am? Resistance in this instance can become a roadblock.
• What do I like about fall – both in my cycle and in nature?
• How do I deal with my body? Do I like myself as I am or not?