I am embarrassed to say I just learned how my menstrual cycle works…(I am in the 30s). For anyone who is not on birth control and is naturally cycling, this article is for you. Hacking your hormones for your benefit can save you time and energy. There have been times when I was feeling sluggish on first dates or could not get a project to click. How can natural cyclers benefit from the menstrual phases each month?…..

Download a tracking app….

Downloading an app is a free way to know what phase you are in. (If you are scared the government is tracking data, it is fine to write your cycle in a physical calendar).

The two major phases….

To simplify everything, the two big phases in the cycle are: Follicular and Luteal.

Ok, so when should I go on a date?….

When you start your period, you enter your follicular phase which lasts until after ovulation. Everyone has different feelings while on a period. No one wants to go on a date day one or two on your period. You may be bloated and cramping, to name a few symptoms. However, a few days after, going towards ovulation, I suggest this is your time to be social and go on dates. You will have more natural energy and your brain is operating on all cylinders. Some studies have said that during your ovulation period you have a glow, smell better, and are more attractive to the opposite sex.

Your luteal phase….

This is the time for you to rest and stay home. In the luteal phase, women experience PMS, moodiness, tiredness, etc. Your body and mind are sleepy. It is not a great time frame to make a new first impression. However, it can be a time to swipe on apps or lay the groundwork for a set up.

Working and your cycle….

Save all the heavy lifting and brain-heavy work for your follicular phase. Your mind will be as sharp as a tack and hard problems will now have easy solutions. When in the luteal phase, I have noticed for myself I would have to completely re-do work that I tried to do. Do low-stakes tasks in this time period.

When to travel….

Most women are like, “oh, no, I am on my period, I can’t travel!” I understand if it’s a beach trip. If you are not swimming, etc, then don’t reschedule your trip. You will be in a better mood and awake.

Bottom Line….

Ok, so to recap: Follicular phase = social and productive, and Luteal = rest and simple tasks. You should push yourself to get everything you can get done in your follicular period, including being social. I understand that there are certain events that are not on your timetable. Sometimes, you have to grit your teeth and bear it. For work and dating, it is better to have a tighter schedule where you work smarter, not harder. When I work in the follicular phase a task is done immediately, versus in the luteal phase, when it takes me several days to do the same task. For dating, this is also the time to double book. Meaning, two dates in one night if you can schedule it.