Top Tips for a Blissful Luteal Phase

We all know the feels of a rocky, emotional, angry, painful pre-period luteal phase. While it is commonly spoken that this is just a normal occurrence for cyclic women, I am here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way! We can absolutely experience pain free, blissful pre-period phases. Ones where your period just arrives and you are like ohhh hello old friend. The key is to nourish our bodies well throughout our whole cycle, and engage in some practices during our luteal phase to support happy hormones.

Here are my top tips to have a blissful luteal phase:

1.   Eat regular, balanced meals throughout the day. We want a balance of protein, carbs, and fats with each meal. Eat breakfast every day and within 30 mins to 1hr of waking if you can. And eat the dang snacks if you are hungry- always listen to your hunger cues. It’s normal to be hungrier in the luteal phase (our metabolism increases as progesterone rises). By eating balanced meals, we regulate our blood sugar which is so important for hormone balance and mood.

2.  Sleep 8-9hrs each day! Sleep is super important for hormone balance, stress, and mood. Make it a priority to get good rest in your luteal phase.

3.  Focus on eating a raw carrot each day! Raw carrot is an excellent way to bind excess estrogen in the gut and excrete it via our poo. This will help with metabolism of excess hormones.

4.  Eat lots of magnesium and B6 rich foods. Think spinach, pumpkin/chia/sunflower seeds, salmon, chicken, bananas etc.

5.  Self-care—acupuncture, massage, reading, TV time, walks etc. Reduce stress and do things that bring you happiness + calm.

By engaging in these tips throughout your cycle, and especially in the luteal phase, you can turn the days leading up to your period from argh to bliss!

With love,

Chels x