by Julia
Chocolate and women often seem inseparable, especially when it comes to period cravings.
Did you know that both women and men undergo a hormonal cycle? For men this is a 24-hour cycle and for women a 28-day lunar cycle. Just as we experience seasonal changes throughout the year, women navigate through these "seasons" during their reproductive years:
⬖ Inner Winter: Menstruation Phase
⬖ Inner Spring: Follicular Phase
⬖ Inner Summer: Ovulation Phase
⬖ Inner Autumn: Luteal Phase or Pregnancy
Due to the longer cycle, women experience a continuous interplay of hormones that influence mood, appetite, libido, emotional well-being, energy, and various other aspects of life. As hormone levels fluctuate, so do needs. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, but by embracing each phase, one can learn to adjust activities and mindset accordingly.
Inner Winter and Cacao
During the menstruation phase, brain activity is highest while hormone levels are lowest. The body undergoes deep cleansing by shedding the uterine lining. This phase is characterised by openness, sensitivity, and receptivity to insights and clear vision. It's a tender time when deepest desires and wishes surface.
Supporting oneself with cacao during this phase is beneficial. Cacao is rich in magnesium, which alleviates menstrual cramps, and anandamide, the bliss chemical, can help feel more supported and content. Celebrate this phase by creating a personal ritual, such as meditation, journaling, Yoga Nidra, gentle movement, or simply resting hands on the womb and taking deep breaths. Reflect on what you're releasing emotionally, energetically, or physically during this cleansing time.
Inner Spring and Cacao
The follicular phase invites exploration, playfulness, and creativity. After the shedding of Inner Winter, there's space for new beginnings. As estrogen levels rise, so does mood. Cacao can help anchor ideas and creativity in the present moment.
Inner Summer and Cacao
The ovulation phase is the time to shine and put yourself out there. With peaking levels of testosterone and estrogen, energy levels are peaking, making you feel more outgoing. Dance, connect, and radiate your light! Cacao serves as a heart-opener, supporting the time of 'conception', whether it's birthing ideas or deepening connections.
Inner Autumn and Cacao
The luteal phase, is characterised by a desire to withdraw and rest. As progesterone levels rise, the body craves nourishment, more sleep, and rest. With decreasing estrogen, cacao, rich in anandamide, can provide support, helping you feel nurtured and held. This phase may also bring about PMS, which can manifest for various reasons. Embrace yourself with gentleness and acceptance during this time.
Cacao can be a gentle companion on your journey of self-discovery and embodiment of the inner seasons, aiding in establishing a menstrual practice.
Even if you're no longer menstruating, you can still honour the seasons by aligning with the moon's cycle:
⬖ Full Moon: Ovulation, Inner Summer
⬖ New Moon: Menstruation, Inner Winter
If you want to learn more about living in harmony with your cycle, check out the book "Good Flow" by Julia & Roos.