The best time to cleanse in your cycle

WHAT PHASE IS BEST? As a woman the best time to cleanse in your menstrual cycle is a controversial topic, you'll find sources with opposite answers! At the end of the day you know what's best for your body and cycle. In my personal opinion I find it best to cleanse/fast/detox during the Follicular and Ovulatory phases. These phases start directly after you finish menstruating. The days will typically be somewhere between days 5 -18 of your cycle (Different for everyone). Your body runs hot and isn't needing as many calories during these phases, making fasting and cleansing the easiest time period on your system as you're not as ravenous for nutrients during this time.

FOLLICULAR PHASE ~ Taking place approximately from days 5 to 18, the follicular phase is marked by a rise in estrogen, setting the stage for ovulation. During this time, many will typically experience a natural suppression in appetite, potentially making it a more suitable time for fasting or cleansing and to handle less calories in general. This can also be a time when the most natural weight loss can happen in your cycle, therefor aiding to the detox process. Embrace this phase as a time for rejuvenation and renewal, both physically and mentally. Activities like light cardio, fasting, stretching, or meditative practices can enhance your sense of well-being. This phase can be an ideal time for an easeful fasting & cleansing experience, setting intentions and engaging in self-care rituals, helping to align your mind and body for the cycle ahead.

OVULATORY PHASE ~ Typically occurring between days 14 to 18, the time of ovulation is characterized by a peak in body temperature, as a result of the surge in luteinizing hormone. This natural increase in warmth may make the body more responsive to fasting or cleansing, as these practices might not cause additional discomfort. It's a time where lighter eating and cooling foods can be particularly beneficial, aiding in maintaining a balanced internal temperature. Naturally your system is wanting to cool down, this makes the fasting and cleansing easier on your body during this time since you're not eating and processing as many calories and therefor adding more heat to your already extra heated body. Remember, it's about tuning into your body's rhythms and providing it with what it needs to thrive during each unique phase of your cycle.

LUTEAL ~ Being roughly the last two weeks of your cycle, days 18-28 your body undergoes significant hormonal shifts. During this phase, progesterone levels rise, preparing the body for a potential pregnancy. This hormonal increase often leads to heightened appetite and cravings, especially for carbohydrates and sweets, as your body's metabolic rate is slightly higher. As such, this might not be the ideal time for fasting or full on cleansing due to needing more caloric intake. Fasting during this time can cause your body to feel overly cold or stressed. Instead, I find it important to focus on nourishing your body with balanced, wholesome meals that provide sustained energy. Remember, it's about supporting your body's needs during this time, which often calls for extra care and nutritional support rather than restriction.

MENSTRUAL ~Occurring roughly between days 1 to 5 of your cycle, the menstrual phase is a time of introspection and rejuvenation. During this phase, your body sheds the uterine lining, a process that can be physically and emotionally taxing. It's a period when your body requires ample care, calories, warmth, and rest. Rather than fasting or engaging in cleansing routines, it may be best to focus on nurturing your body with nutrient-dense foods and the utmost care. This includes warmth, rest, nutrients and love. To deprive your body of that by fasting/cleansing during this phase can make your cleanse experience much harder and less graceful., cooked meals that are easy to digest, rich in iron and vitamins to replenish what your body is losing. Hydration is key, so ensure adequate fluid intake. The menstrual phase is an opportunity to reflect, rest, and reset. Honor your body's need for a slower pace and gentle nourishment, paving the way for the cycle ahead with grace and self-compassion.

As always listen to your own body and cycle and do what feels best for you!

As women, living harmoniously in tune with or bodies and letting our wombs guide us is truly life changing! Female bodies and hormones are constantly changing during our monthly cycles, compared to a male with a 24 hour hormone cycle. This ripples into how the outside world can deeply change and effect you. This gift of a monthly cycle and few days of natural cleansing and rest gives us an amazing opportunity to synch up your day to day life with your cycle. Here's one way I synch with my cycle! How do you live by your cycle?