Living In Flow: The Luteal Phase

We've been diving into cycle syncing lately & I'm loving all of your feedback! 
Let's keep the momentum going by looking at Phase 3, called the Luteal Phase.  As with each phase of our cycle, the Luteal phase has distinct needs that it asks of us. 
​Let's look at how to harness the power of our cycles to live our best lives!

Before moving forward I encourage you to read about Phase 1 and Phase 2 of our cycles so you have some foundational information. 

Phase 3 is known as the Luteal Phase

During the Luteal phase, an egg is released into the uterus. Our estrogen levels continue to rise throughout this phase. If the egg hasn't been fertilized towards the end of this cycle, the corpus luteum (the follicle from which the egg bursts) is reabsorbed into the body. Progesterone then come to an end, which triggers your period to begin. Towards the end of this phase, testosterone begins to increase. 

Let's explore some more key points about the Luteal phase:

• This phase is 10-14 days in duration
• During this phase our physical energy takes a dive and we begin to experience some symptoms such as bloating, inability, mood swings & cravings
• The key theme of this phase are comfort, awareness & attention so you may notice you start to focus on more detail-oriented tasks such as organizing your monthly budget, or cooking for the entire week
• You'll also have a sudden desire to nest so this is the perfect time to reorganize your clothes, take care of that pile of laundry, or taking a big grocery trip
• Take time during this phase to begin to slow down and look inward
• Looking at food requirements during this phase, your body will be in need of foods full of B vitamins, calcium, magnesium and fiber. These foods will help with your sugar cravings, will help mitigate fluid retention, and will help flush your liver and large intestine
• During the first half of the Luteal phase, your energy will still be high so continue your more strenuous workouts that you were practicing during the Ovulation phase. Pay attention to the needs of your body and continue to scale back on the intensity levels during the last 4 days of activity, such as walking and Pilates

The Luteal phase asks a lot of us! It's complex and asks that we look within and pay attention to how the needs of the body are ever-changing. As with all of our phases, once we can tune into the requirements of the Luteal phase we can thrive during each phase of our cycle. How amazing to change our perspective of our cycles, rather than dreading them. 

What questions do you have about the Luteal phase?