Menstrual cycle awareness: Spring
Using the seasons of the year this blog series explores what’s going on at each stage of the menstrual cycle and how we can use this information to support our wellbeing.
This framework is based on the average length of a menstrual cycle, however every woman’s cycle is unique.
Your cycle may be shorter or longer than 28 days and you may stay in a particular season longer than the others. Tracking your cycle is the most valuable way to tune into your body’s wisdom.
Spring is the second phase of the cycle, the pre-ovulation phase – approximately day 7 to 13 of the cycle.
Oestrogen is back
The end of your period heralds the arrival of Spring and the latter part of the follicular phase (the first half of the cycle that incorporates Winter and Spring).
During the follicular phase follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is released, prompting the follicles in the ovaries to mature in preparation for the release of an egg at ovulation.
Hormonally, Spring is all about gearing up for ovulation - levels of oestrogen are rising in order to thicken the lining of the womb ready for a fertilized egg to implant.
After the collapse of hormones during the early days of your cycle (Winter) which can leave you wanting to hibernate while you’re bleeding, this rise in oestrogen in Spring can feel a bit like a re-emergence!
There’s a spring in your step
Spring might well be your favourite phase of the cycle :-) The rise in oestrogen increases energy levels and you’re likely to be feeling more upbeat due to the influence of oestrogen on serotonin levels.
While the Autumn phase (the other side of your period) can be characterised by gloominess, self-doubt and a sense of “why should I?”, this Spring phase after your period is much more about optimism, confidence and enthusiasm - more of a “why not!” frame of mind.
There’s usually a lightness to this stage of the cycle, a willingness to connect with others, a desire to be productive and creative.
It’s the best time to focus on projects and take on a new challenge. Problem solving can be a lot easier than in Autumn or Winter when you have less energy and brain fog can set in.
There is also a playfulness to Spring, and the rise in testosterone as ovulation gets closer can result in an increased libido.
How to help yourself in Spring
The momentum of the Spring phase can be really energising and uplifting. It’s also a vulnerable time though - you’ve just emerged from Winter and like a new flower bud you haven’t quite blossomed yet!
It’s important to pace yourself and think about how much physical energy and mental space you really have.
Spring is commonly the easiest stage of the cycle for taking care of yourself, here are 10 tips to help prompt you:
Remember to prioritise sleep and drinking enough water
Schedule beauty appointments for this phase – hair removal hurts a lot less before ovulation :-)
Step up your exercise routine (carefully) – it’s the best time to build muscle
If you over-do things and start to feel anxious, make time for conscious breathing and meditation
Start tackling some of the bigger tasks on your to-do list, but don’t set your expectations too high and burnout – what’s the first step you can take?
Think about committing to a new habit or learning a new skill
If you’re a parent, this can be a good time to plan activities with your children when your patience threshold is higher!
Allow time for your own creativity and experiment with an idea you’ve had - you could start by making a vision board
Plan the next few weeks of your cycle – what you want to do, who you want to see and when you might need more downtime in the Autumn phase
Put on some music and dance :-)
If you feel exhausted during Spring it could be a sign that something is out of balance in your cycle or you didn’t get enough rest during your period.
There are many factors that influence your experience of your menstrual cycle. I can help you get to the bottom of what might be causing your symptoms.
Get in touch if you’d like to find out how homeopathy could help improve your period health. You can send me an email or book a free call with me:
Further reading
Menstrual cycle awareness: Summer
Menstrual cycle awareness: Autumn
Menstrual cycle awareness: Winter
How to understand the messages your period might be trying to give youPeriod Power by Maisie Hill
Period Repair Manual by Lara Briden
The Fifth Vital Sign by Lisa Hendrickson-Jack
The Autism-Friendly Guide to Periods by Robyn Steward – this is a fantastic book for anyone wanting to know about periods. It’s written in a gender-neutral style and is a great resource for all parents, not just those of children who are autistic.
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