Anxiety and menstrual cycle

For years, I felt frustrated with myself whenever my energy or mood suddenly dipped. I’d wonder why I couldn’t just be “on” all the time. Then I started tracking my menstrual cycle, and it all clicked. I began to see patterns — times when I naturally feel stronger and more social, and times when I need extra rest and gentleness. Instead of fighting against those shifts, I’ve learned to work with them. It’s been such a game-changer for my emotional balance and self-compassion.

Understanding your cycle phases to align with your energy and emotional well-being

This is something I actively take into account to help manage my energy, emotions, and overall wellness. By learning to recognize the different phases of my cycle, I can better anticipate shifts in mood and motivation, and adjust my pace accordingly.

There are two main phases to be aware of:

1. Follicular Phase – This begins right after your period. It’s typically a time of rising energy, increased motivation, and a general sense of feeling strong and unstoppable.
2. Luteal Phase – This phase starts after ovulation and is often when premenstrual symptoms show up: mood swings, fatigue, headaches, and emotional sensitivity. It’s common to feel less motivated and lower in energy during this time.

I use a cycle tracking app (Flo) to help me stay aware of which phase I’m in and plan accordingly.

• During my follicular phase, I naturally feel more social and energized—so I plan more stimulating activities, like working out, socializing, and pushing forward with creative or professional projects.
• During the luteal phase, I know I’m more likely to feel tired or emotionally vulnerable. So I create more space in my schedule, lighten my responsibilities, and shift toward gentler, nurturing activities—like yin yoga, slow walks, or cozy self-care routines.

I also communicate openly with those around me, especially my partner, to let them know when I need a little extra care, softness, or support. This helps manage expectations and prevents unnecessary tension.

Understanding and working with my cycle—rather than fighting it—has helped me move through each phase with greater self-compassion and calm. It also helps me feel more prepared when emotional lows do show up.

Fun fact: Estrogen levels influence how we feel and express emotions. During certain phases of the cycle, emotional states can feel more intense—and our ability to process or communicate those feelings can change too. Knowing this adds another layer of self-awareness that I find incredibly helpful.

These are the people I follow as well when I have questions and feel unsure about things related to intimacy, hormones, periods etc...

• https://www.instagram.com/emancipees/
• https://www.instagram.com/anadasilv__/
• The Clue, Moonly, Flo... to help track my cycle
• https://www.instagram.com/myodess_/
• https://www.instagram.com/mashasexplique/
• A podcast I did a long time ago with my Friend Rachel Rondon, Interviewing doctors and hormonal therapists : https://open.spotify.com/show/7isyx1Gnz2aP8hldzlnNIG

Working with my cycle instead of fighting against it has given me so much more understanding of myself. It’s a reminder that we don’t have to be the same every day, and that’s completely okay. In upcoming posts, I’ll keep exploring other small practices that support emotional balance and ease.