In today’s fast pace world, we seem to have forgotten women’s cyclic nature. This highly competitive world demands women to be on par with men, that is to say constantly on the go, preventing us from being true to ourselves, and also to nature and its seasons.
Women experience four phases throughout their life; and during menstruation, they go through four phases each cycle. Even if they are not having a bleed, they move through these phases monthly. Each phase aligns with the moon’s four phases and the earth’s four seasons. It is all interconnected.
About a year ago, I decided to look more closely into women’s cyclic nature and learn about its different phases other than from a physiological perspective. Being aware of each phase and living in accordance with their innate qualities has allowed me to have a much smoother cycle each month. This is why I wanted to share this article with you. To release the negative views around menstruation or menopause, so that you too can make the most of your cycle and enjoy your femininity.
The purpose of this article is to explain each of these four phases, and how women can honour their cycle throughout life. Honouring our female cycle helps us to stay healthy physically and emotionally and allows us to live more fully. Following our cycle enables us to be true to ourselves and draw our strength from our inner wisdom.
“When we match a task to the enhanced skills we experience in a phase, not only can we do things better and quicker – we also feel great! Our menstrual cycle is an amazing instrument for creating achievement AND happiness.” Miranda Gray
Notes before we begin
This article is based on a typical 28-day menstrual cycle, but cycles can be longer or shorter. Each woman is different so please adapt this to your own rhythm.
Women who are not menstruating (whether they have gone through menopause or not) still experience these phases. If you are unsure where you are in your cycle, I suggest you follow the phases of the moon.
The content of this essay is based on Miranda Gray’s work which references are at the end. In her work, Gray has associated each phase to an archetype, which serves as a title for each section below. We begin with the youngest archetype.
Virgin
This phase of the cycle typically spans days 6 to 14, after menstruation and leading up to ovulation.
It also corresponds to the early years of puberty through the late 20’s.
– Moon Phase: Waxing Moon
– Season: Spring
During this phase, women often feel bright, energised and focused. This is a good time for planning the month ahead or starting a new project as your mental faculties will be a lot sharper.
It is also a good time for socialising as we are filled with outward energy. Do get some physical exercise too to stimulate your body.
Having just released what no longer serves us during menstruation, the Virgin phase is an ideal time to begin a new food or fitness regime. The best time would be to start it during this phase of your cycle during spring!
Emotionally, use this phase to reframe negative self-talk. Affirmations can help rewire limiting beliefs. Be confident in yourself!
Mother
The mother phase usually goes from days 14 to 21, from ovulation to pre-menstruation. It represents the childbearing years, typically from the late 20’s to early 40’s.
– Moon Phase: Full Moon
– Season: Summer
Empathy and radiance are heightened during this phase. You are likely to devote your energy towards others, this may be your family but also your community, work colleagues or anyone outside your home. You may feel nurturing and generous – making it a great time for batch cooking (you can then freeze extras for when your energy is low).
You are likely to feel good in yourself, so this is the perfect time for socialising, networking, public speaking or hosting a workshop. It is also a great moment to have conversations with your partner about dreams or future plans.
Gratitude flows easily. Take time to appreciate Mother Earth and the blessings in your life.
Enchantress
This is the pre-menstrual phase, typically days 21 to 28. The Enchantress represents the perimenopausal years, from the mid-40’s to the mid 50’s.
– Moon Phase: Waning Moon
– Season: Autumn
This phase can be unpredictable as it comes with moods wings, and highs and lows with energy levels. However, it is a powerful time for creativity when the mind may be restless or even hyperactive. Direct your energy towards a creative activity to release it; listen to your imaginative self and write, draw or manifest in any way that feels right.
Autumn is a time for clearing space to welcome the new. During energy highs, you may feel drawn to do a deep clean or declutter, preparing space for what is to come.
As energy wanes toward the end of this phase, patience and focus may diminish. Surrender and release. Be gentle with yourself as your body prepares for the next phase.
Sage
This phase is actually the first phase in the menstrual cycle, covering days 1 to 6 – menstruation.
I have chosen to finish with this phase because in terms of life stages, it represents the post-menopausal years. This phase is also known as the Wise Woman or the Grandmother.
– Moon Phase: New Moon
– Season: Winter
This is a time for slowing down, withdrawing. Rest, introspection and stepping away from social obligations become priorities
It is a time to clean out the old and welcome the new physically, emotionally and spiritually. If you have a busy life and live with others are home, you may find it difficult to prioritise yourself. Try and take a few minutes at the end of the day for yourself: have a bath, go in a cosy room for some silence or gentle music, go to bed early. Reflect on your past cycle and what you wish to release.
Your body will be tired, so it is best to avoid strenuous exercise. Stretches, gentle yoga or a slow walk in nature would be ideal during this phase.
Honouring and welcoming your bleed will really make a difference to the rest of your cycle.
Conclusion
I understand how challenging it can be to follow your cycle in today’s fast-paced world, especially if you have children or work full-time. But honouring our cycle is a powerful form of self-care. It allows us to understand some of our reactions or physical and emotional changes, and therefore to be gentler and understanding with ourselves.
If possible, take a few minutes each day, or every few days, to acknowledge where you are and notice what is coming up for you. Take some time out when you are menstruating or whenever you need to. When we care for ourselves, we are better able to look after others.
There are wonderful homeopathic remedies such as Sepia, Pulsatilla or Folliculinum that can help at various stages of womanhood, to restore a cycle or support through hormonal changes. Australian Bush Flower Essences include She Oak and Bush Fuchsia as single essences or the Woman Essence as a combination. Do get in touch with me if you need further support.
If you have enjoyed this article and want to learn more about women’s cycles, I recommend the following:
Miranda Gray’s website Miranda Gray
Miranda Gray, Red Moon book Red Moon
Miranda Gray, The optimized woman book Optimized Woman, The – Using your menstrual cycle to achieve success and fulfillment by Miranda Gray | Waterstones
Jessica McCleskey Hood Mahle’s course Moon Goddess Miracles
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