If you're a woman, you've probably heard the term Moon Cycle or how women's menstrual cycles align with the moon. But is there truth to this, or is it just a coincidence?
All things in life are cyclical—there's a beginning and an end to living things, transitions, seasons, renewal, and shedding of the old. When we observe the moon, we see it transition from a new moon, dark and moody, to a full moon, illuminating the night sky, and back again. What's not often discussed are the waxing and waning phases. The waxing phase is the build-up toward the full moon, like waxing your car to achieve a shine. The waning phase follows the full moon, where energy begins to slow down, eventually moving back into the new moon phase. The full moon is significant because it has a gravitational pull on water, influencing high tides in the ocean (Women).
Okay, so how does that relate to the menstrual cycle?
The nature of women's cycles is strikingly similar in how we feel and what our bodies are doing. The new moon aligns with the menstrual and early follicular phases, symbolizing a fresh start and a time of introspection, much like the new moon's dark and moody vibe (mindbodygreen).
As we move into the next phase (late follicular), our bodies focus on egg maturation, preparing for potential fertilization. This stage mirrors the build-up of energy seen in the waxing moon phase.
Once the egg is matured and released, we reach the peak of our cycle, a time when we feel more vibrant, energetic, and even glowing—just like the full moon. Ovulation only lasts 12-24 hours (though the fertile energy can last a few days beforehand). After ovulation, we enter the early luteal phase, where energy levels begin to wane, just like the moon’s waning phase. As we transition into the late luteal phase, this aligns with the waning crescent moon—the last moments before a new moon, just as we approach our menstrual phase, starting the cycle anew (The Scientist).
Do I have to start my cycle on the New Moon?
No, not necessarily. The new moon symbolizes a new cycle, but there's nothing wrong with starting your cycle during a different moon phase.
Is there a spiritual meaning to starting a menstrual phase during a certain moon phase?
Exploring spiritual meanings and connections between your body and the earth can help you feel more in tune with yourself. Here are some spiritual insights for starting a new cycle during different moon phases:
New Moon: Menstruating during the new moon is often associated with new beginnings, introspection, and self-reflection. It symbolizes a time of going inward, releasing old patterns, and planting seeds for new intentions. Spiritually, it's seen as a powerful time for renewal and setting goals for the upcoming lunar cycle (Women).
Waxing Crescent: Starting your menstrual phase during the waxing crescent aligns with growth and new phases. This phase is about building momentum and taking small steps forward. It’s a time of rejuvenation and nurturing emerging potential. Spiritually, it suggests self-discovery and a focus on self-care as energy levels gradually rise.
First Quarter Moon: Menstruating during the first quarter moon is seen as a time of action and challenge. This phase brings the energy of facing obstacles and making decisions, which aligns with shedding both physically and emotionally. It represents the balance between rest and moving forward, urging you to align with your goals and values.
Waxing Gibbous: Starting your cycle during the waxing gibbous moon is associated with refinement and adjustment. The focus is on fine-tuning plans and ideas before the full moon. Spiritually, this time is about introspection and refining what matters, with an emphasis on self-care and preparing for the fullness of the full moon.
Full Moon: Menstruating with the full moon is traditionally known as a “red moon cycle” and is associated with women who are healers, teachers, and those focused on nurturing others. It is a time of heightened intuition, creativity, and power. Spiritually, it suggests a focus on outward energy, sharing wisdom, and connecting deeply with others (mindbodygreen).
Waning Gibbous: Starting your period during the waning gibbous moon is connected to gratitude, release, and sharing insights. This phase is about letting go and reflecting on what has been achieved. It’s a time for slowing down and processing emotions, making it spiritually enriching for inner reflection.
Last Quarter Moon: If your cycle aligns with the last quarter moon, it symbolizes a time of release and clearing out the old to make space for the new. Spiritually, it is a period for evaluating what no longer serves you and making conscious decisions to move forward with clarity. It encourages rest, reflection, and closing cycles.
Waning Crescent: Beginning your cycle during the waning crescent is linked to deep rest and contemplation. This phase is about embracing solitude, surrender, and preparing for a new cycle. Spiritually, it’s a time for introspection, meditation, and connecting with inner wisdom before the renewal of the new moon.
Check out what phase the moon is in today: Moon Phase Calendar
Do you notice any patterns or themes with the moon and your cycle?
Yes! It totally resonates
No, not really.
But, what if my cycles are irregular?
Irregular cycles can have many causes, including:
Stress: High physical or emotional stress levels can disrupt hormones like cortisol, affecting menstrual regularity.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder leading to irregular ovulation and elevated androgen levels.
Thyroid Imbalance: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can influence menstrual cycles.
Significant Weight Changes: Sudden weight loss, gain, or low body weight can disrupt hormone levels(The Scientist)(mindbodygreen).
Intense Physical Activity: High-intensity exercise can lower body fat and disrupt the hypothalamus, impacting cycles.
Hormonal Birth Control: Changes in hormonal contraceptives can temporarily alter cycles.
Perimenopause: This transition period before menopause can cause irregular periods.
Endometriosis: Tissue growth outside the uterus can cause painful, irregular cycles(Women).
Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: Noncancerous growths can alter menstrual patterns.
Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and autoimmune disorders can influence hormonal balance.
These are some top reasons, but many factors like lifestyle, diet, and sleep patterns can also impact menstrual health. While exploring spiritual connections is valuable, always prioritize physical wellness and consult a healthcare provider for serious concerns.
Holistic Support
For support in creating more balanced cycles through a holistic approach, join other women in the Divine Feminine Wellness Membership. You can access a self-paced Moon Cycle Harmony Program which also comes complete with an in-depth 7-in-1 Holistic Cycle Wellness Tracker even with a chakra stress report, along with 44 other mini-reports to help you gain insight into causes for changes in your cycle. There's also several tools to support your journey with educational resources, goddess-themed wellness content, and more, you can feel your best throughout every phase of your cycle.
References:
"Our Guide To The Connection Between Your Menstrual & Moon Cycles," Women.com(Women).
"Moon Cycles and Menstrual Cycles," The Scientist Magazine®(The Scientist).
"How To Sync Your Menstrual Cycle With The Moon," mindbodygreen(mindbodygreen).
コメント