If you’re a woman who is looking to support her hormones, I’m sure you’ve heard the term “cycle syncing” before. There is a lot of information on social media on this topic and I’m sure it’s overwhelming, and frankly kind of confusing. You may be interested in learning more, but don’t even know where to start. If that’s the case, girl, I’ve got you. Let’s start at the very beginning.

What is cycle syncing?

To put it simply, cycle syncing means working with your body’s natural rhythm to feel your best throughout each phase of your menstrual cycle. It’s all about tuning into your cycle and tailoring your diet, exercise and self-care routines to support your hormone levels throughout the month. When you sync your lifestyle with your cycle, you'll experience improved mood, energy and overall well-being. Who doesn’t want that?

Before touching on the four phases of the menstrual cycle, there are a few period facts you should know, if you don’t already:

• An ideal cycle should be anywhere from 25 to 35 days

• Average cycle is 28-29 days

• A normal period can be anywhere from 3-7 days

• The first few days of your period are typically heavier

• Your period should be vibrant red / the color of cranberry juice

• A period is considered heavy if it lasts for more than 8 days or you have to change your tampon or pad every two hours

Did you know all this? Before diving deeper into syncing with your cycle, you may want to first start with tracking your cycle. I like the Flo App and Natural Cycles. I am currently using Natural Cycles because it pairs well with the Oura ring (yes, worth the investment, I think!). From there, why not start to familiarize yourself with the basics of each phase of the menstrual cycle.

The Four Phases At-A-Glance:

• Menstruation (Inner Winter) - This is considered the first day of your cycle and as mentioned above can last anywhere from 3-7 days. If you guessed this would be the point when you have your lowest energy, you’d be right. It is the perfect time to rest and eat iron rich foods to replenish lost nutrients.

• Follicular (Inner Spring) - After your period ends, your follicular phase begins and lasts about 7-10 days. Your hormones and energy levels start to increase - it’s a great time to try a new workout class and eat light & vibrant foods and fermented foods.

• Ovulatory (Inner Summer) - This is the mid point in your cycle and is usually around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. This is when you will have peak energy and confidence. It’s a good time for networking and making plans with friends. Add light and raw foods and cruciferous vegetables.

• Luteal (Inner Fall) - This phase can last anywhere from 10-14 days and includes the week before your period. Your hormone and energy levels will start to decline again. Focus on low impact movement and adding in warming and grounding foods.

As your track your cycle, check in. Does the above resonate? How long is your cycle lasting? Do you feel like your energy levels are rising and falling? Start slow and tune in and believe it or not, you are already starting to cycle sync.

When you are ready for more details about what is actually happening during each phase of the cycle, self-care and work activities, foods to focus on, and journal prompts for each phase, check out my cycle syncing guide. ON SALE NOW HERE It also comes with a cheat sheet for the men in your life, because they need to understand your moods and energy levels too, right?!

Happy syncing, friends!

Feature Photo: Ebony Forsyth, Dupe Photos