By Ayesha Ayath Aslam
The menstrual cycle is divided into 4 phases — menstrual, follicular, ovulation, and luteal phase — that affect you physically & emotionally.
Bleeding marks the beginning of your cycle. Hormone levels drop and your energy is the lowest; so focus on low-intensity tasks.
Organize, plan & reflect (journal) to prepare yourself for the month ahead. Go on solo dates, limit exercise, and help yourself with some deliberate rest time.
Estrogen and testosterone start rising, boosting your energy and lifting your mood. So, engage in some brainstorming and problem-solving activities during this phase.
Make big decisions, start a new project, participate in social groups, plan outings, etc. As for the workout, you can start with strenuous exercises.
Around day 14, hormones peak, and pregnancy is possible since the egg in your ovary survives for only 12-24 hours.
You may feel more confident so focus on high-energy tasks like important meetings, job interviews, networking events, etc. Continue with the physical workout that you love.
Estrogen and testosterone fluctuate; progesterone rises; so, energy starts to soothe down as you head towards menstruation. The notorious PMS symptoms start appearing in this phase.
Focus on less demanding activities like completing tasks, practicing self-care — eating healthy food, Epsom salt baths, and squeezing in some alone time in your schedule.