Reclaiming Our Sacred Cycle

Menstruation is a sacred expression of the creative, feminine energy. It is powerfully connected to the lunar cycle and is a time when the deep wisdom of the body dances with the magic and mystery of the womb. Yet, the mention of a woman’s cycle (or moon time) often evokes negative reactions, such as discomfort, embarrassment, and fear. There is a long history behind why menstruation has become shameful and taboo in many cultures; however, let’s focus on how, as women, we can transform this negative view and reclaim our cycle as a sacred expression of life, creativity, and feminine power. Here are some ways to reconnect with the sacredness of your moon time each month.

1. Chart your cycle. Keep track on a paper calendar or use one of the many free apps available (for smart phone users) to chart your cycle. Keeping a chart will help to increase your awareness of your body’s unique rhythm. Notice when you ovulate and begin menstruation, as compared to the lunar cycle. It’s interesting to see how closely our cycles are aligned with the phases of the moon.
2. Listen to your body’s call for more rest. When you are bleeding, especially during the first few days, be gentle with your body and create as much time as possible to be still and focus your attention inward. 
3. Pay attention to your dreams and intuitions. When menstruating, women experience heightened intuition and receive powerful dream messages. The more you welcome and embrace this time of increased sensitivity, the more insight you may receive.
4. Notice your beliefs about your cycle. Many of us have been taught that menstruation is “the curse”. With compassion, acknowledge any shame or negativity you feel about your moon time. Increased awareness and self-love create possibilities for healing. 
5. Recognize pain as a message from your body. Many women experience varying degrees of pain while menstruating ~ cramps, sore breasts, headaches, etc. If you experience severe pain during this time, it is a signal that your body needs support. Know that it is possible to have minimal to no discomfort while menstruating. 
6. Heal with herbs and supplements. Some herbs that support hormonal health are black cohosh, dong quai, red raspberry leaf, wild yam, false unicorn, and blessed thistle. Progesterone cream may also help to naturally balance your hormones. If you are not sure what support you need, it is helpful to work with someone who has a thorough knowledge of herbs and supplements and who uses kinesiology testing to determine the specific needs of your body.
7. Nourish your body with healing foods. It’s helpful to consume vitamin and mineral rich foods and beverages to support your body when menstruating. Personally, I find that small amounts of organic meat (especially wild caught salmon), eggs, miso, seaweed, vegetables (especially sweet potatoes, beets, and lettuce), lemons, butter, coconut oil, coconut water, peppermint tea, and green vegetable juice help to balance my body during this time.
8. Stay hydrated. Make sure to drink enough water or other healing beverages, as this helps to minimize bloating and menstrual cramps.
9. Avoid caffeine, refined sugar, and processed foods. These put extra stress on the body, so try to avoid them when you are bleeding. Try replacing caffeinated beverages with herbal tea, refined sugar with stevia or honey, and processed foods with whole foods.
10. Soothe tight muscles with heat. Taking a hot bath feels wonderful when you have cramps or tight back muscles. I recommend lighting a candle and fully relaxing into the nurturing, healing energy of the water. If you cannot take a bath, placing a hot water bottle on your lower abdomen also relieves cramps.
11. Use essential oils to support the body. Apply clary sage and/or lavender to your lower abdomen and back to alleviate cramps. These oils can also be added to your bath water and can be taken internally. Remember that when you are using oils for healing purposes, make sure to only use therapeutic grade. I recommend Young Living oils. 
12. Question medications that suppress menstruation. There are several birth control medications available that allow women to menstruate only a few times a year or to stop menstruating completely. Monthly ovulation and menstrual bleeding are very important to the overall health and well-being of women. Look into safer birth control options that do not disrupt your cycle.
13. Express gratitude. Celebrate the power, mystery, and wonder of the womb and entire female body. Identify one aspect of your cycle that you are grateful for and embrace it with love.
14. Envision a world that honors women’s bodies.   See a world in which menarche (the first menstrual cycle) is proudly celebrated as a beautiful rite of passage for all women and menstruation is viewed with respect and reverence.
15. Use your cycle as a gateway to remembering your True Self. Here is a great quote by Miranda Gray that beautifully illuminates this idea: “If women become aware that they are cyclic beings during their menstrual lives, then they begin to recognize that they are part of the greater rhythms of the universe and come closer to accepting their true nature and finding harmony in their lives.”