Cycle Syncing 101: Learn to Work With Your Body

Ever feel like you’re a slave to your hormonal ups and downs each month? It’s not all in your head! There’s a good chance you can benefit from cycle syncing. The hormonal fluctuations that come with our menstrual cycle affect our emotions, appetite, nutritional needs, thought processes, physical needs, and so much more. With cycle syncing, you learn to tune into your hormonal needs as they ebb and flow throughout the month, and can better manage your menstrual cycle so you can work with your body, instead of against it.

Disclaimer: This information is not a replacement for professional advice from a medical professional. Everyone’s body is different. Please always seek an opinion from a trusted medical professional before making any major changes related to your health.

What’s cycle syncing anyway?

In short, it’s the practice of getting to know your body’s cycle, hormone changes and inner seasons to better align your nutrition, exercise and lifestyle habits.

Cycle syncing can help you work with your body, instead of against it! Traditionally, in society we plan our days around a 24-hour cycle, but this is actually designed in tune with the male hormonal cycle. For women, our hormones change on a 28-day hormone cycle, attune to our menstrual cycle. Learning how this works with cycle-syncing can help us balance our hormones and maximise our body’s power throughout the month.

The benefits of cycle syncing are endless! Working with your body’s natural cycle, it can help you lean into periods of rest when needed, maximise your energy at optimal times, reduce PMS symptoms, improve hormonal balance, and more!

Understanding the phases of your cycle

The first step to cycle syncing is understanding the different phases of your cycle. A good way to remember them is to think of them as the ‘seasons’ of your body.‌

• Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5) like your body’s winter
• Follicular Phase (Days 6-14) like your body’s spring
• Ovulation Phase (Days 15-17) like your body’s summer
• Luteal Phase (Days 18-28) like your body’s autumn

This is a rough guide based on a 28-day cycle. Your cycle may be longer or shorter.

Menstrual Phase

The menstrual phase of your cycle is like your body’s winter. This is when oestrogen and progesterone are low and the lining of your uterus is shed, causing your period. This is usually when you may feel your energy is at its lowest. During this phase, it’s important to lean into rest and give your body the extra nourishment you need.

Make sure to get rest up, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and opt for warm, nourishing meals like soup. Light exercise, like swimming, is actually helpful for relieving menstrual cramps. Period-proof swimwear is a great choice for swimming on your period as it’s comfortable, non-invasive and reduces the need for single-use disposable period products like tampons.

Find your favourite period-proof swimwear style, here.

Follicular Phase

The follicular phase of your cycle is like your body’s spring. During this phase, oestrogen and progesterone hormones are on the rise. As these hormones rise and your body gets ready for ovulation, you might be feeling quick on your feet or more creatively inspired! Lean into this energy by trying something new, like learning a new language or taking a creative workshop.

Fuel your body during this period with lean protein and lots of fresh vegetables. You may be feeling more coordinated than usual, why not try pilates, a dance class or pool aerobics? With style versatility and no added bulk, our stylish period-proof swimwear can be worn at any time of the month!

Ovulation Phase

The ovulatory phase of your cycle is like your body’s summer. You may be feeling more flirty and social as your body releases an egg from the ovaries in preparation for ovulation. Your energy may feel the highest during this time and you feel like your best and most confident self. Fill up on plenty of fresh fruit, nuts and seeds to nourish your body. Feeling social? This is a great time to make plans with your friends. Why not organise a beach day with your besties?

Did you know some women report increased discharge during ovulation? If you’re worried about leaks, don’t fret! Period-proof swimwear is designed to keep you leak-free and protected whether it be menstrual blood, incontinence leaks or discharge.

Explore our stylish range of discreet, leak-proof swimwear, here.

Luteal Phase

The luteal phase of your cycle is like your body’s autumn. If an egg isn't fertilised during the ovulation phase, during the luteal phase of your cycle progesterone begins to rise slowly and then fall; shedding the uterine lining to begin menstruation. The increase and drop in progesterone may have you experiencing mood swings and a drop in energy.

This is a good time to lean into self-care and be extra kind to your body. Opt for a night in with a face mask, cup of tea and a good book. Nourish your body with the extra calories it needs to fuel you. Need time to reflect? Meditating or journaling is a great way to get your thoughts and feelings out. Why not head to the beach for a calm atmosphere?

Cycle syncing is a great way to understand the hormonal shifts in your body better and align your nutritional, exercise and lifestyle habits to align with these hormonal changes. When you feel more in tune with your body, you’ll feel more free and confident with your plans at any time of the month.

Step into a chapter of confidence and swim leak-free any time of the month with our Azure Belle Period-Proof Swimwear collection, thoughtfully designed for ladies and teens. 

WHERE TO BUY PERIOD SWIMWEAR?

If you’re ready to take the plunge and start enjoying the water even on your period days, Azure Belle has a range of discreet period swimwear that’s perfect for hitting the beach, stretching with some laps or just chilling by the pool.

With our range of women’s period swimwear in one-piece and two-piece styles and teen period swimwear designed for anyone trying out period underwear for the first time, you’re sure to find the perfect fit. Shop our period swimwear online today, and never miss out on swimming even when it’s that time of the month again.