We all know the importance of a good night’s sleep. Yet many of my clients seem to just ‘live with’ lack of it.
There are many different things that can impact your sleep.
- Environment
- Sugar and food
- Alcohol
- Stress, and
- YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Throughout the month the fluctuation of hormones can impact your sleep. Research shows there are times in your cycle where less sleep is required. In the late follicular phase (Daphne) and around ovulation (Demeter) there is an increase in oestrogen and around these times seems to be the phases of better sleep.
Some research shows oestrogen usually improves the quality of sleep, reduces the time it takes to fall asleep and increases the amount of REM sleep.
It is around these phases that we can push our bodies (and emotions) a bit harder, we are more focused and determined and our bodies are responding well to the push. This ‘go harder’ approach can leave you exhausted and by the time it’s time for bed, you are ready for a good night’s sleep.
But a word of warning, it can work in the other direction, going so hard, you are left in overwhelm.
Whereas, around the late luteal phase (Persephone) and during menstruation (Hecate) sleep can be disrupted.
This can be contributed to the fact you are getting some discomfort before your period, like bloating, tenderness or cramping. or during your period you may experience heavy bleeding throughout the night.
Recognising sleep patterns is an important aspect of charting your cycle, and it’s very individual. What is happening to your sleep throughout your cycle?
Download the free chart and connect with me to learn more about charting your cycle.
When you have been charting for a couple of cycles, you can support yourself better. Maybe use an oil like Hecate to help you sleep better during menstruation. Or make sure you are resting your body during Demeter to ensure you are not overdoing things.
Embody the power your body has and listen to what it wants, this will ensure less chance of burnout and higher results in your life.