Embracing the Hormonal Roller Coaster: Navigating Cravings and Self-Care During Your Menstrual Cycle
Earlier this week I was in a complete funk with a capital F.
I didn’t feel like doing anything, I had complete writer’s block and my cravings were insane! I wasn’t hungry, and yet all I wanted to eat was candy and granola. You would think that after decades of having my period, I would’ve recognized the signs, but it wasn’t until I looked at my period tracking app (yes, I have one!), that I made the connection. My hormones were kicking into full gear. The old me would’ve felt guilty for giving in to cravings, for not pushing myself to exercise, or for simply needing more rest. But here's the truth: our bodies are amazing, and those hormonal fluctuations are just part of the journey.
The Hormonal Symphony
Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are the conductors of your menstrual cycle. They rise and fall throughout the month, affecting everything from your mood to your metabolism. While these changes are natural, they can sometimes feel overwhelming—especially when cravings hit hard.
Cravings: The Uninvited Guest
Cravings during the menstrual cycle, especially in the week or so before your period, are completely normal. Trust me, I know the struggle of wanting to eat everything in sight. This is when progesterone levels spike, making you crave sweets, salty snacks, or carbs - sound familiar? It's not about willpower; it's about your body responding to hormonal changes.
Strategies to Handle Cravings
Intuitive Eating
Let yourself enjoy the foods you crave without guilt. Savor each bite, pay attention to the taste and texture, and stop when you're satisfied. This approach can help you feel more in control and less likely to overeat.
Nutrient-Dense Choices
Satisfy your cravings with foods that also nourish your body. If you're craving chocolate, go for a piece of dark chocolate that's rich in antioxidants. Your body will thank you.
Balanced Meals
Keep your meals balanced with a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. This helps stabilize your blood sugar levels and can make those intense cravings less overwhelming.
Self-Care: Nurturing Your Body and Mind
The menstrual cycle isn’t just about food cravings, it is also your body’s way of reminding you to slow down and listen to its needs. Self-care during this time isn’t just a “nice to have” luxury, it’s essential.
Self-Love and Rest
Listen to Your Body
If you're feeling tired, give yourself permission to rest. Prioritize sleep and relaxation to help your body recharge. You don’t need to push through fatigue. Let me repeat that one: you don’t need to push through fatigue.
Gentle Movement
Opt for gentle exercises like yoga, stretching, or walking. These activities can reduce stress and ease menstrual discomfort without draining your energy.
Pamper Yourself
Indulge in self-care rituals like warm baths, aromatherapy, or a soothing massage. Small acts of kindness towards yourself can make a big difference.
Respecting Your Body
Respecting your body means acknowledging its needs and treating it with kindness and compassion. Hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of being a woman, and they’re not something to fight against.
Practice Gratitude
Shift your focus from frustration to appreciation. Be grateful for your body’s ability to function and support you every day, despite the challenges.
Body Positivity
Embrace your body as it is and reject societal pressures to look or feel a certain way. Your body’s natural cycles are a testament to its incredible capabilities.
Healthy Boundaries
Set boundaries with yourself and others. It’s okay to say no to activities or commitments that drain your energy, especially during your menstrual cycle.
Why Hormones Are Amazing
Despite all the chaos they can bring, hormones are truly amazing. They regulate essential bodily functions, support reproductive health, and even influence your emotional well-being. Learning to work with your hormones, instead of against them, can enhance your health and happiness. Or at the very least, respect the power that they have and appreciate the awesomeness of the human female body!
