Female Cycle: What I Learned About My Own Cycle and How I Changed It

Sarah Bodo
Feb 23
3 min read

Hikes are in "Spring" so much easier than in "Autumn" for me 😊✨

Right now, I’m in Spring—and for those around me, that means I have an abundance of energy. This is when ideas are flowing, concepts are coming together, and there’s no shortage of post-its covering my workspace. It’s a time when I feel like I could run endlessly, tackling everything on my to-do list.

But there’s a catch. What I’m not good at in this time is resting when my body still needs it. If I skip proper sleep, hydration, or balanced food, I feel it later in my cycle—a harsh reminder that our energy needs care and replenishment, no matter the season.

Through trial, error, self-reflection, and reading about it a lot, I’ve learned to listen to my body and align my life with the natural rhythm of my cycle.

Here’s how each phase plays a role for me:

Spring (Follicular Phase)

This is my high-energy, creative phase.

🌱 What I notice:

I’m full of energy, ideas, and action.
I feel unstoppable — brainstorming, creating strategies, and bringing concepts to life.

🌱 What I need to remember:

Rest is still important, even when I feel like I don’t need it.
Hydration, proper nutrition, and sleep are essential to maintain energy levels throughout the rest of the cycle.

🌱 How I use this time:

Right now, for example, I’m deep into my business pitch deck, preparing to convince investors and push forward ideas I’ve worked on. This is my flourish phase.

Summer (Ovulation Phase)

This is my balance phase — still energetic, but I start to feel the need for rest.

☀️ What I notice:

I still have energy, but I start reflecting more — what’s working, what needs adjustment, and where self-doubt may creep in.
I enjoy socializing but need balance; pushing too hard drains my energy bucket.

☀️ How I use this time:

I focus on refining ideas, networking, and exploring feedback to make improvements.
I begin setting boundaries to avoid burnout.

Autumn (Luteal Phase)

This is my get-things-done phase, where I clean up, organize, and tackle things I’ve been avoiding.

🍂 What I notice:

I’m incredibly productive but also more direct. Things I might have tiptoed around in Spring now get said with clarity.
I feel a stronger pull to stay in and focus rather than be out in the world.

🍂 How I use this time:

I work through my task list and clear mental clutter.
For example, I’ll tidy up my workspace, revisit unfinished tasks, and prepare for what’s coming.

🍂 What helps:

My dog, Rose, gets me outside even when I feel like hiding. Walks in nature help me balance this phase.

Winter (Menstrual Phase)

This is my rest and renewal phase.

❄️ What I notice:

My body demands rest, and I feel the effects of pushing too hard earlier in the cycle.
Pain and discomfort are part of this phase, but I’ve learned to prioritize self-care.

❄️ How I use this time:

Long showers, me-time, reading, and naps become my go-to.
I allow myself to reflect and set intentions for the next cycle.

What I’ve Learned

Everybody’s cycle is different, but we don’t often talk about it or get educated enough to understand it. Society tells us, “Your period isn’t a sickness,” but that doesn’t mean it isn’t something we should respect and adapt to.

I’ve learned to listen to my body and adapt my lifestyle to align with my cycle:

I’ve identified what I need during each phase — whether it’s rest, specific foods, or mindset shifts.
I’ve learned to embrace my cycle as a superpower, not just a burden.

By filling Spring and Summer with activities that bring me energy, and using Autumn and Winter to reflect and reset, I’ve found a rhythm that works for me.

For Readers: How Can This Help You?

💡 If you’re a female reader:

Take some time to notice how you feel throughout your cycle. What gives you energy? What drains you? What patterns can you spot? You might discover small changes that can make a big difference.

💡 If you’re not a female reader but you’ve made it this far:

Consider how you can support the women in your life. Whether it’s a partner, friend, or colleague, helping them identify and honor what they need at different times can make a world of difference.

This is what I’ve learned about working with my body instead of fighting against it.

What about you? Have you ever considered how your cycle influences your energy, mood, or productivity? Let’s share and learn together!