You know how there are some days you’re just crushing it effortlessly and other days that feel like a total slog?
And there are some weeks when you have enough energy to conquer everything on your to-do list, plus slay your favorite workout like you’re an Olympian.
While other times of the month, it’s all you can do to put your shoes on and go to work…
The hormones that ebb and flow in your body that control your menstrual cycle– or make it wonky– do way more than just determine things like ovulation, your period, and your energy levels.
They also have incredible influence on your brain. The same hormones that determine your menstrual cycle also affect your productivity, because they determine what types of tasks you’re best at during different times of the month.
WHOA.
(Are you wondering why no one ever taught you this? You’re not the only one thinking that….)
And the cravings?
YIKES!
It always seems like there are a few days every month when you just cannot keep the chocolate out of your mouth…
(That’s not just me, right?!)
Or no matter how nutritious that salad was you ate for lunch, you can’t get some hot, greasy, salty fries out of your mind.
Yep, PMS cravings and other food preferences are tied into your hormones rising and falling, too.
Dopamine is the headliner here, trying to get you to give in to those cravings.
Is there any way to avoid it?
I know you know what I’m talking about, sister…
It’s been this way ever since you started your period all those years ago.
The good news is that there is actually a way to keep your mood balanced and productivity high all through your cycle.
And that these secrets for eating, exercising, working, and just dealing with life in general can make every day way easier and far more productive.
Your Cycle, Cravings, and Moving Mindfully Through the Month
The reality is, the hormones that drive your menstrual cycle affect so much more than just your fertility. They control what types of food you crave, your energy levels, and even what tasks are easiest for your brain to handle.
And I’m not just talking about those PMS cravings that make you want to eat everything in sight and do nothing other than watch Netflix for 72 straight hours.
Wish you had some back-pocket tips to:
+ Know what to eat so you could quash cravings and truly nourish your body
+ Exercise in ways that supported your body and energy levels at different times in your cycle
+ Manage your energy and productivity holistically, keeping you from burnout (and rage!)
Learn how to thrive using quick dietary shifts, movement designed to work with your energy levels, and reduce annoying PMS cravings.
It’s not impossible! You really can have a toolbox filled with these simple lifestyle hacks so you can be at your very best all month long. You deserve it!
The Well Balanced Women blog is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please discuss your health issues with a licensed medical practitioner.
