Today, I congratulated my colleague on the beginning of her period. I know firsthand how heavy the days before a period can feel when estrogen is at its lowest, and how much lighter life becomes once estrogen begins to rise. I am sure you’ve noticed, too, how time seems to stretch endlessly right before your period, and days feel unbearably long and heavy, and even joyful things lose their sparkle.
Practicing self awareness helps to predict fluctuations of emotional states and anticipate the premenstrual illusion of doom. Personally, I have a special mantra to repeat to myself:
“Don’t believe this illusion of doom. It’s only estrogen at its lowest. My body is under renewal. I am safe. I am fine. This will only last a few days. Don’t surrender to the illusion of doom.” Premenstrual hopelessness truly has an expiration date.
To feel better before my period and lessen the weight of those days, I’ve already cleared my schedule, dimmed the lights, put jewelry away, turned down the music, and surrendered to my favorite tunes. I listen to white noise or to ocean waves and connect to nature. I do not hold back my tears. Sometimes I close my eyes and wait it out. And whatever I must do, I do it gently.
So yes, I said it sincerely: “Congratulations, you got your period!” Because now estrogen has nowhere to go but up, and we’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.
Read now How to Get Started with the Flow