Most of us go through the 35 years or so of having periods without giving them a second thought. Why should you track your cycle? And how?
Three reasons why you should track your cycle
- Many health issues are related to hormones. For example: if you realise that your migraines actually occur in the couple of days before your period, it’s (probably) a hormone related issue as opposed to “I just don’t know what’s wrong with me” issue. Which will help you on the road to getting to the root cause of the issue, to be able to sort it out.
- We often focus on the negative – it’s a natural reaction. But – surprise! – there are upsides to hormones too. If you discover that you have certain days (or groups of days) over a month that you feel great, you can optimise this: try on the amazing outfit, tweak your diary to do the presentation, max your workout.
- You will know when to look after yourself a bit more. If you are tired on certain days (eg just before your period), you can change your diary to make sure you get to bed a little earlier, or have an evening in on the sofa rather than dragging yourself out. I know that there are certain days where, if I do this, I am more tolerant to my nearest and dearest…
In short, if you understand your cycle, you can be more understanding to yourself. The simplest way to track your cycle is to write down a single word or phrase that sums up how you feel (best done in the morning, before life throws stuff at you!). After a couple of months, check in and see what patterns there are.
If you’d like to know more on managing your cycle – and helping your hormones yourself – read my blog.
And, as always, get in touch if you’d like some help. Many of patients tell me how much acupuncture has helped them get their hormones under control.