Let’s talk about the (dun dun dunn…) luteal phase
Don’t worry, it’s actually not that scary! We’re exploring what you can expect during the second half of your cycle, including symptoms of PMS (boo!) and a powerful intuition (yay!).
Understanding Your Luteal Phase
The luteal phase follows ovulation and lasts until the start of your next period. During this phase, your body prepares for potential pregnancy by producing progesterone, which helps support the uterine lining and maintain a healthy environment for a fertilized egg. It’s important to focus on keeping your blood sugar steady and eating foods that aid digestion and support your liver in processing hormones.
What to Expect:
Progesterone Dominance: Progesterone levels rise during the luteal phase, reaching their peak about halfway through. This increase in progesterone can lead to physical and emotional changes, including bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, and increased appetite.
Energy Fluctuations: Many women experience fluctuations in energy levels during the luteal phase. While some may feel a decrease in energy and motivation, others may experience bursts of creativity and productivity. Listen to your body and honor its needs during this time!
Premenstrual Symptoms: As you near the end of the luteal phase, you may experience premenstrual symptoms (PMS) such as mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and food cravings.
Preparation for Menstruation: Towards the end of the luteal phase, if pregnancy has not occurred, progesterone levels drop, triggering the start of menstruation. This marks the beginning of a new menstrual cycle and the transition back to the follicular phase.
How to Support Your Body:
Nourishment: Eat plenty of grounding foods that support serotonin production such as root vegetables, healthy fats like salmon, and dark greens. It’s also helpful to avoid excess caffeine, alcohol, and dairy.
Seed Cycling: Prioritize nourishing your body with nutrient-rich seeds & herbs that promote progesterone production levels, liver function, and digestion. Our luteal blend features sunflower & sesame seeds that provide essential nutrients like vitamins E, B6, & B1 that support your body during this time.
Exercise: Tune into your body and reduce the intensity of your workouts during this time. Things like yoga, pilates, strength training, and gentle breathing can all help soothe your nervous system.
Remedies: Your intuition is powerful at this time. Drop in and honor your body through meditation, creative writing, journaling, listening to music, and taking a warm bath.