Today, I congratulated a colleague on the beginning of her period. It may sound unusual, but I know firsthand how heavy the days before a period can feel—and how much lighter life becomes once estrogen begins to rise again after hitting its lowest point.
As we say: “The good thing about being down is that the only way is up.” That’s exactly what happens with estrogen. It climbs after menstruation, peaks at ovulation, then dips again—only to rise once more.
The Illusion of Doom
Have you ever noticed how time seems to stretch endlessly right before your period? The days can feel unbearably heavy, and even joyful things lose their sparkle, as if a sepia filter has been placed over everything.
To navigate this, I created a personal mantra for those last premenstrual days:
“Don’t believe this illusion of doom. It’s only estrogen at its lowest. My body is renewing itself. I am safe. I am fine. This will only last a few days. Don’t surrender to the illusion of doom.”
Another phrase I repeat to myself: “Premenstrual hopelessness has an expiration date.”
Finding Glimmers in the Gloom
To soften the weight of those days, I surround myself with premenstrual glimmers. I clear my schedule, dim the lights, take off jewelry I usually wear, turn down the music, and play my favorite tunes. I let myself out to listen to the waves and connect to nature. I hold no tears back and let them fall freely. Sometimes I close my eyes and ride it out. And whatever i have to do – I do it a little more gently.
A Shift Upward
So yes, I say it sincerely: “Congratulations, you got your period!” Because now estrogen has nowhere to go but up. You’ve got time until the next premenstrual dip. And when it arrives, it will be a new chance to pause, breathe, and care for yourself until the next estrogen rise.