In my mind, our cycles are like well-worn paths through time and space. The moon circles the earth. Seasons follow one another. Tides come in and recede, yin transforms to yang. Each month our bodies reflect these natural rhythms.

Our cycles are one of the top indicators of overall health. For the most part, things flow smoothly. When they don’t, most of us reach for our old friend ibuprofen--hey, I’ve done it myself from time to time! But I’ve learned over the years that by engaging with my cycle I develop this amazing relationship with it.

13Ways

Showing my body the honor and reverence it deserves have helped me heal my cycle beyond measure. Here are the top thirteen ways I give back to myself every month:

1. Create a special place for yourself. This could be an altar dedicated to your moon time, a quiet corner of your home with a comfortable chair, or a place outdoors. Whatever it is, make it yours and return to it each month. Use it as you will: you can sit quietly, journal, meditate, enjoy a cup of your favorite herbal tea… whatever you need to do! By creating this space that you return to monthly, you send a subtle message that when you are in this space, it is "you" time.

2. Follow your cycle with a calendar. Engage in the entirety of your cycle: learn how long it is and how many days you bleed. How do you feel when you are ovulating or just after your period ends? Over time, this gives you insight into your unique cycle. You won't have surprises month after month, and you'll gain insight into how to shift what needs shifting.

3. Keep yourself warm. According to Chinese Medical Theory, when we are bleeding our blood moves deeper into our bodies and then begins to flow, leaving our outermost layers more exposed. Cover up! Try wearing a red scarf or hat. Focused heat on your lower back or abdomen can help ease cramps as well.

4. Take a gentle walk in the woods or other favorite outdoor spot….by yourself! This one kills two birds with one stone: you get some much-needed alone time to relax, reflect and just be, and the gentle exercise keeps your Qi flowing smoothly.

5. Eat healthy, nourishing meals. You may try to incorporate some red foods. Or (bonus points!) cook yourself up a big pot of something BEFORE you start bleeding. This way you can take it easy and take care of yourself all at once.

6. Notice how you think and feel about your bleeding time. Do you love it? Hate it? Would you just rather not think of it at all? Where did these feelings come from?

7. Return your blood to the earth. Our monthly blood is full of nutrients and stem cells that plants and microbes love. This is an opportunity for you to consciously give to the nutrient cycle. You can soak your reusable cloth pads in a jar of water and use that water for your garden or houseplants, or simply empty your menstrual cup into a container that you use to water plants.

8. Use this as a time of self-reflection. Is there anything you need to let go of?

9. Look at the big picture. Notice how you feel throughout your cycle. Take time for self care BEFORE you need it.

10. Get some rest. Your body is doing some intense work. Not only are you experiencing a blood loss but Qi moves the blood. Allow space for both to replenish.

11. Look at the moon. What phase is it in? Was it in this phase the last time you bled?

12. Give thanks. You experience an amazing microcosmic representation of the unending cycles of birth, growth, death and rebirth! Inside your body! You bleed--without getting sick and dying! Your monthly bleeding represents you ability to create new life, or whatever creative endeavor you like.

13. Just be.

About the author of this post:

martha eden

Martha is a Chinese herbalist and woman’s health educator. She draws on a background in Chinese medicine and ecology to give woman the information they need to heal them selves. Martha started www.jade-circle.net as a resource for women to find the information they need to connect with their innate beings.