Welcome to EMpowered Wellness

A woman's cycle:

Follicular Phase – Inner Spring

(Week 1 - After Menstruation to Ovulation)

Body Changes:
In the follicular phase, your body is emerging from menstruation and beginning to rebuild and renew. Estrogen levels start to rise, which helps stimulate the growth of your follicles in the ovaries. This is a time of rejuvenation—your energy levels begin to rise as your body prepares for ovulation.

• Energy: Increased energy and enthusiasm as the body begins to re-balance after menstruation.

• Physical Sensations: You might feel more alert, clearer-headed, and motivated to start new projects. Your skin may glow as estrogen supports collagen production.

• Emotional: There's a sense of optimism and creativity, a “fresh start” feeling, similar to the rejuvenation of spring.

Inner Experience:
Like the fresh blooms of spring, you may feel a burst of creativity and motivation. This is the phase for setting new intentions, taking action, and pushing forward with your goals. It’s a time of self-discovery and personal growth.

Ovulation – Inner Summer

(Week 2 - Mid-Cycle)

Body Changes:
Ovulation marks the peak of your fertility and energy. During this phase, estrogen is at its highest point, and you may experience an increase in libido and a sense of heightened social connection. The body prepares for possible conception, and your cervix softens and opens slightly. This is when the egg is released from the ovary and travels down the fallopian tube.

• Energy: High energy, vitality, and physical strength. You might feel more active and able to take on challenges with enthusiasm.

• Physical Sensations: You may experience increased cervical mucus, breast tenderness, and clearer skin.

• Emotional: There’s a sense of confidence, radiance, and joy. You may feel more outgoing and sociable, as you are in the “summer” of your cycle.

Inner Experience:
The energy is at its peak, like the sun at its zenith. This is a time of fullness, confidence, and external expression. You feel your best physically, and emotionally you’re ready to connect with others and enjoy life to the fullest. It’s the perfect time to take center stage, speak up, and embrace your potential.

Luteal Phase – Inner Fall

(Week 3 - After Ovulation to Pre-Menstruation)

Body Changes:
As progesterone levels rise during the luteal phase, the body begins to prepare for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization doesn’t occur, progesterone drops, and the body starts its transition into menstruation. This phase often brings physical changes like bloating, breast tenderness, and mood fluctuations.

• Energy: You may feel a little more tired and introspective as your body prepares for the next phase. There may be moments of both energy bursts and fatigue.

• Physical Sensations: Swelling, bloating, increased appetite, and possibly some premenstrual symptoms like headaches or fatigue.

• Emotional: Emotions can feel heightened, and there may be a sense of going inward. You may experience mood swings or irritability, similar to the winding down of fall before winter sets in.

Inner Experience:
Much like fall, this is a time of reflection and transition. You might feel a bit more introspective and less social. It's a time to harvest the fruits of your efforts, assess what’s working in your life, and begin letting go of things that no longer serve you. The energy is more inward, and you may feel a need for rest and restoration.

Menstruation – Inner Winter

(Week 4 - Menstrual Phase)

Body Changes:
During menstruation, estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest levels, and your body sheds the uterine lining. It’s a time of release and renewal. The body may experience cramping, bloating, and fatigue as hormone levels fluctuate.

• Energy: This is the most restful and restorative time. You may feel more fatigued, craving comfort and sleep.

• Physical Sensations: Cramps, headaches, and a sense of heaviness or bloating. You may feel more sensitive physically and emotionally.

• Emotional: A natural sense of introspection, reflection, and deep emotional connection with yourself. You might feel a bit withdrawn or more vulnerable as the body clears out old energy, much like the quiet stillness of winter.

Inner Experience:
Inner winter is a time for rest, rejuvenation, and deep reflection. This is when you are invited to pause, listen to your intuition, and focus inward. It’s a time to slow down and release what no longer serves you, allowing space for renewal. The energy is low, and it’s a time to honor your need for rest, self-care, and nurturing.

By understanding these phases and how they align with the seasons, you can better tune into your body’s natural rhythms and find harmony with your energy, emotions, and physical changes throughout the month.