Menstrual Cycle Phases for Empowerment

The female body has a unique rythme, found in four menstrual cycle phases. Lasting an average of 28 days, our inner biological block is governed by hormones that affect the whole body and many aspects of our lives beyond fertility. Within the mentrual, follicular, ovulation and luteal phases are distinct energies and ancient wisdom which we can draw upon for guidance. Understanding and living in harmony with these biological and spiritual cues can empower you to unlock your potential, living in comfort and balance.

Menstruation (Days 1-5)

• Archetype: The Crone
• Moon Phase: New Moon
• Season: Inner Winter

Although menstruation is typically measured as the beginning of the Menstrual cycle, symbolically it is the end. The body sheds the lining of your uterus (womb) after the egg from ovulation expires. During this period the old egg, waste and other small debris are flushed from your body ready for a fresh lining and a new egg in the next cycle.

Physically, many women will feel tired because of fluctuating hormones and menstrual pains at this time. Cramps, nausea, and other symptoms are common signals from your body to slow down and take care of yourself.

Spiritually, menstruation is the phase of the Crone, New Moon, and Inner Winter. The Crone is also known as the wise woman due to her age and experience. Having been through all the phases of the cycle, she has a lot of knowledge and insight to share. This is a good time to pursue knowledge, listen to intuition, and support others. Finally, it’s a good time for pause and rejuvenation in preparation for the next cycle.

Follicular Phase (Days 1-13)

• Archetype: The Maiden
• Moon Phase: Waxing Moon
• Season: Inner Spring

During the Follicular Phase, the body is preparing itself for fertility. Reproductive hormones (mostly FSH) are produced, causing the womb’s nutrient lining to thicken and the egg follicles to mature in the ovaries.

Physically, this phase is marked by rising energy levels, improved focus and positive moods. The follicular phase is the time for deep focus work, new tasks and physical challenges.

Spiritually, this phase embodies the spirit of the Maiden, Waxing Moon and inner spring. The maiden represents youthful energy, creativity, and potential. It’s a good time to be spontaneous, dream big, and go on adventures.

Ovulation (Around Day 14)

Archetype: The Mother

Moon Phase: Full Moon

Season: Inner Summer

Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 in a 28-day cycle, exactly halfway through. During this phase, the dominant ovarian follicle releases a mature egg into the fallopian tube, marking the peak of fertility.

Physically, women often experience their highest energy levels at this time, which is great as long as it doesn’t lead to stress or anxiety. Hormones may also be stimulating the need for more social connection, emotional closeness and physical intimacy. Just be extra careful about having sex if you’re not trying to conceive.

Spiritually, this phase embodies the spirit of the Mother. She is a life-giver, carer and heart of the family or community. You don’t need to be a literal mother to tap into this energy. It’s the ideal time to connect with others, deepen bonds and nurture something. That could be yourself, your plants, pets, friends or family. More practically, this is a good time for talking, networking and sharing ideas.

Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)

Archetype: The Enchantress

Moon Phase: Waning Moon

Season: Inner Autumn

During the Luteal Phase, the body continues preparing for pregnancy in a new way. The follicle (small sac in the ovary) which grew this cycle’s egg transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum produces high levels of progesterone to further thicken and develop the  uterus lining. In the last week of the Luteal Phase, the corpus luteum breaks down and all hormone levels start dropping ready for menstruation.

Physically, high levels of progesterone in the luteal phase can have a sedative effect on many women. Progesterone also interacts with serotonin to impact mood regulation, and early PMS symptoms can add to frustration at this time.

Spiritually, the Luteal phase is that of the Enchantress, Waning Moon, and Inner Autumn. Autumn is a time of harvest, and without pregnancy the body is likely mourning the lack of harvest which can leave us feeling down. However, we are more than our biological imperative to procreate. The enchantress archetype represents an empowered, independent, self-aware woman who lives for herself and knows what she wants. During this phase, women can be celebrating success and harvest in many areas of their lives from personal to professional to social to spiritual. This is the time to celebrate success, come into your power and live exactly how you want to.

Lunar and Menstrual Cycle Phases: What’s the Connection?

Spiritual wisdom suggests that where your menstrual cycle phases align with the cycle of the moon can be a useful indicator of the phase of life you are in. Read below to find out what the relationship between the moon and your body reveals.

The moon itself represents feminine energy, emotions and intuition. Your astrological moon sign represents your emotional life and your emotional needs.

• New Moon: a time of rest, introspection, and hidden things. Low emotional energy.
• Waxing Moon: a time of creation, new beginnings and rising emotional energy.
• Full Moon: a time of creation, revelation and high emotional energy.
• Waning Moon: a time of harvest and lowering emotional energy.

Red Moon

Red Moon witches get their menstrual phase during the full moon, meaning they are resting when the moon’s energy is highest (full) and creative when the moon is dormant (new). These women thrive in the quiet, are intuitive and drawn to mystery. They are healers and shamans.

White Moon

White Moon witches get their menstrual phase during the new moon which means they are resting when the moon’s energy is lowest (new) and creative when the moon is full. These women are connected to the rhythm of the earth and are ready to nurture new projects. White witches will thrive in energised settings such as during the full moon, in the daytime, outdoors and around other people.

Pink Moon

Pink Moon witches get their menstrual phase during the waxing moon, meaning they are resting when energy is rising and creating when energy is lowering. They share qualities with the Red Moon witch’s love for peace but are moving towards a White Moon cycle, meaning they are in a phase of personal growth, building and nurturing. This is further represented by the loving, compassionate, and nurturing meaning in the colour pink.

Purple Moon

Purple Moon witches get their menstrual cycle during the waning moon, meaning they are resting when energy is lowering and creating when energy is rising. They share qualities with the White Moon which’s love for energised environments but they are moving towards a Red Moon cycle, meaning they are in a phase of stepping back, inner development and introspection. This is further represented by the intuitive, mystical and calmer connotations of the colour purple.

Menstrual Cycle Phases: The Conclusion