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The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SBU chapter.

As women, our hormones are constantly changing depending on what point in our cycle we are in. Our cycle is 28 days broken into four different phases. To begin, days 1-5, which is our menstruation period when the uterine lining sheds; days 6-13 are the follicular phase when the uterine lining thickens; day 14 is the ovulation period when the ovaries produce an egg; and lastly, days 15-28 are the luteal phase where the uterine lining continues to thicken for the shedding period. 

During these periods of time, our estrogen and progesterone levels are fluctuating, when certain hormone levels are heightened or decreased it impacts our bodies. Whether it’s an increase in energy or a decrease in mood, our hormones play a large role in how we function.

I’m sure you’ll understand these physical effects and have had first-hand experience with how your cycle can affect us both emotionally and physically. As I have continued to look into ways to manage the effects of hormones during certain phases I have found a natural way to help myself with certain exercises, foods, and daily habits to incorporate. 

Menstruation 

Lots of rest and self-care are needed.

Accept this low-energy phase and try light energy givers, like prayer, journaling and painting.

Others include: Light exercise like yoga/ meditation which helps soothe pain and focus on the present.

Dark chocolate, skincare products with witch hazel, ginger tea, long walks, turmeric and ginger to help with pain and inflammation, keeping your room cool and listening to your instincts also help.

Follicular phase 

This is for the high-energy period. Try some new things (during this period you may be prone to injuries so always stretch before physical activity). 

Some tips include: setting goals/intentions (great period of time to journal), eating citrus foods, using skincare products with vitamin C and nourishing oils, consuming fermented foods and going for a run or walk.

Ovulation 

Cardio and HIIT workouts are great. Also, a lot of quality time with a partner, since sex drive may increase. Whole grain foods, and eating estrogen-rich foods such as chickpeas, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseed will also help. Connecting with others during the period of high energy such as rekindling relationships and reaching out to others. Also, let yourself rest and take more naps.

Luteal Phase 

Berries and leafy greens are your best friends. Reducing oils on your face and taking this time to clean your pores and do a face mask. This could be an introverted period of time, so spend time alone and prioritize your well-being. Try strength-training and try short periods of intense workouts.

Cassidy is a social media executive for Her Campus at St. Bonaventure University. She loves to use her creative outlet to advance her university's chapter. She has been writing for Her Campus for three years. Cassidy is a fourth-year student studying psychology with a minor in women's studies. Beyond Her Campus, she is involved in other extracurriculars such as L.I.F.T., Active Minds, and volunteering in the food pantry. She is the president of SBU for Equality. You may find her working in the admissions building as a student ambassador. She is an avid Pinterest user and will bring up how it is the best social media to exist. Her love for music keeps her going, nothing Taylor Swift can't help her with.