The holidays bring gatherings, travel, and plenty of celebration, but they can also disrupt routines that keep the body and mind in balance. Hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle can make the season feel unpredictable, affecting energy levels, digestion, and mood.
Understanding how the body shifts through different phases allows for smarter planning and greater comfort during busy weeks. Wellness support can also help reduce physical discomfort and mood swings.
Supplements like FLO are designed to help ease common symptoms such as bloating, cramps, and mood swings, making it easier to stay comfortable no matter what the calendar (or your body!) has planned. The following wellness strategies can help support physical and emotional balance through every phase of the cycle, so that the holidays are enjoyable and stress-free from start to finish.
When energy levels are at their lowest, rest is essential. The menstrual phase is the body’s time to recover and reset, so it’s important to give space for rest even when the holiday season feels full. Saying no to optional events or taking quiet breaks throughout the day can help preserve energy.
Gentle movement like stretching, walking, or yoga supports circulation and relieves cramps without overwhelming the body. Nourishing meals that include iron-rich foods such as leafy greens, lentils, and lean proteins replenish what the body loses during this phase.
Staying hydrated and getting adequate sleep promotes better recovery. Prioritizing calm, restorative moments ensures that energy returns more naturally as the body transitions into the next stage of the cycle.
After the menstrual phase, energy begins to rise. The follicular phase is an excellent time to plan social outings, workouts, or travel days that require stamina. This increase in natural energy makes it easier to stay active, but proper nutrition is still key. Meals balanced with complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats help sustain energy levels and maintain focus throughout busy days.
While the holidays often include indulgent foods, balancing them with nutrient-dense options such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables prevents sudden drops in blood sugar. Preparing snacks like nuts or yogurt can help manage hunger during long shopping trips or travel days. This phase is also ideal for trying new fitness routines or planning holiday activities that keep energy flowing and motivation high.
The ovulatory phase is often when energy peaks and mood improves, making it the most socially active part of the cycle. However, with high energy can come overstimulation if the schedule becomes too full. Incorporating mindfulness into daily routines, such as a short morning meditation or deep breathing before events, helps maintain focus and calm.
Hydration is especially important during this time. Drinking enough water supports digestion and helps manage the bloating that can occur with hormonal fluctuations. Choosing lighter meals that include vegetables, fish, and whole grains supports digestion and energy balance.
Gentle activities like yoga or Pilates can help maintain flexibility and reduce tension. Staying present and intentional helps make the most of this phase’s natural energy without feeling overwhelmed.
The luteal phase can bring more noticeable changes in mood and energy. Many people experience irritability, anxiety, or cravings as hormone levels fluctuate. Managing this phase requires both physical and emotional awareness. Consuming foods high in magnesium and vitamin B, such as spinach, bananas, and almonds, supports mood regulation and may ease tension.
Establishing consistent sleep and meal schedules stabilizes energy and minimizes emotional highs and lows. Incorporating relaxation habits like journaling, stretching before bed, or spending quiet time alone can help manage stress.
Adjusting commitments during this phase by keeping the calendar lighter before major events reduces pressure and prevents burnout. Recognizing and planning for this phase allows for greater comfort and stability, even during the most demanding parts of the season.
Physical activity plays a major role in regulating hormones and managing stress throughout every phase of the cycle. The type and intensity of movement should shift with energy levels. During lower-energy days, focus on stretching, restorative yoga, or slow walks. As energy increases, incorporate strength training or moderate cardio.
Mindful movement improves circulation, reduces cramping, and helps regulate mood by supporting endorphin release. Even brief sessions of 20 to 30 minutes can make a noticeable difference in focus and energy. Movement should feel supportive, not exhausting, so tuning into how the body responds is essential. Staying active in a balanced, intentional way keeps both physical and mental health strong through the holiday rush.
The holidays can be both joyful and demanding, but managing them with awareness of the body’s natural rhythm makes a world of difference. Understanding each phase of the menstrual cycle (menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal) allows for intentional choices that support both comfort and energy.
MBTpg