Čeština
Български
Nederlands
Norsk
Français
Italiano
Română
Slovenčina
Deutsch
Polski
Hrvatski
Español
Magyar
Pусский
Slovenščina
Do you know those days when you're full of energy, and other times you just want to crawl under the duvet and be completely alone? Do you wonder why sometimes you're sociable, creative, and determined, and other times you're tired and don't feel like doing anything? A woman's body doesn't work like a man's. While men operate on a 24-hour cycle with relatively stable testosterone levels, women go through an approximately 28-day cycle during which hormone levels change, and with them, energy, mood, concentration, appetite, and the need for rest.
In this article, we'll look at all four phases of the menstrual cycle, what happens to your body during these phases, how to eat during each phase of the cycle, how to exercise, how to approach yourself, and which essential oils can support you in each phase of your cycle.
What is the menstrual cycle and why is it important to understand it
The menstrual cycle is a complex biological process controlled by the interplay of hormones, which repeats approximately every 21 to 35 days. The average cycle length is 28 days, but every woman is different, and the length can vary not only between individual women but also between individual cycles in the same woman.
The cycle is divided into four main phases: menstruation, follicular (pre-ovulatory) phase, ovulatory phase, and luteal (pre-menstrual) phase. In each of these, the ratio of key hormones changes, especially oestrogen and progesterone, and these changes affect practically everything: from physical performance to mental alertness, emotional experience, sleep quality, libido, and metabolism.
Monitor your cycle for a better understanding of your body. Just start recording when your period begins and ends, how you feel on individual days, what your energy, mood, or appetite is like. Gradually, you'll begin to recognise your personal rhythm and will be able to plan important activities with regard to what naturally suits you.
.webp)
The cyclical woman embodies four archetypes
To better understand the individual phases of the cycle, an analogy to four female archetypes is used. These archetypes parallel the phases of the moon, the seasons, and are also reflected in four BEWIT essential oils, each of which was created precisely for one phase of your cycle:
Crone/Wise Woman - menstruation - new moon - winter - BEWIT Oracle
Maiden - pre-ovulatory phase - waxing moon - spring - BEWIT Virgin
Queen / Mother - ovulation - full moon - summer - BEWIT Queen
Goddess / Enchantress - pre-menstrual phase - waning moon - autumn - BEWIT Goddess.
Phase 1: Menstruation (Days 1–6) - Wise Woman - BEWIT ORACLE
The menstrual phase begins on the first day of bleeding. Oestrogen and progesterone levels are at their lowest, the uterine lining sheds, and the body undergoes a natural cleanse. Bleeding usually lasts 3 to 7 days.
Many women feel tired during these days, and may suffer from abdominal, back, or headaches. Energy is at its lowest level throughout the cycle. At the same time, thanks to the hormonal "reset", a feeling of relief from the tension that accompanied the pre-menstrual period can emerge.
Archetype: Crone, Wise Woman (Oracle)
Menstruation corresponds to the archetype of the Wise Woman, a wise woman who withdraws into deep silence, listens to her inner self, and gathers wisdom. It is a period of introspection, when intuition and the ability for deep inner insight naturally deepen.
In comparison to the seasons, this is winter, a time when nature rests, all strength is drawn into the roots. Similarly, the female body needs rest and regeneration at this time to regain strength for the next cycle.
Key characteristics of this phase: introspection, deep silence, intuition, regeneration, wisdom.
What to eat
Food during the menstrual phase should be cooked, nutritious, and easily digestible. The body loses blood, and with it important minerals, so it is crucial to replenish iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Focus on these foods:
- Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, chard) - rich source of iron and magnesium
- Beetroot - rich source of iron and folic acid
- Legumes (lentils, chickpeas) - plant-based iron and protein
- Warm soups and broths - broth is excellent for regeneration
- Whole grains - buckwheat, oats, quinoa
- Dark chocolate (min. 70% cocoa) - magnesium and antioxidants
- Turmeric and ginger - popular spices for warmth and overall well-being
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, overly salty foods, and highly processed foods, which can worsen bloating and discomfort.
Movement
There's no need to force yourself into intense exercise. This period is suitable for gentle, calm movement: walks in nature, yoga, stretching, or breathing exercises. If you feel up to your usual workout, that's fine too. The important thing is to listen to your body.
How to take care of yourself
Indulge in a warm bath, rest, reading, meditation, or journaling. The menstrual phase is an ideal time to evaluate the past month and set intentions for the upcoming one. Also, allow yourself silence and alone time, as your intuition is strongest right now.
BEWIT ORACLE - The Oracle for your menstrual phase
The blend BEWIT Oracle was created precisely for the menstrual phase. This floral, slightly woody essential blend with notes of resins and citrus combines rose and geranium for tenderness and feminine strength, frankincense and myrrh for grounding and introspection, lavender and chamomile for relaxation and inner security.
The BEWIT Oracle essential oil blend will help you:
- promote a sense of harmony and well-being during menstruation
- encourage slowing down and deep rest
- open the mind to intuition and inner voice
How to use ORACLE: add 3–5 drops to a diffuser during meditation or evening relaxation, add a diluted blend to a warm bath, or apply 1 drop to 10 ml of jojoba oil in a roll-on bottle to create your personal perfume.
Phase 2: Pre-ovulatory phase (Days 7–13) - Maiden - BEWIT VIRGIN
After menstruation ends, the follicular (pre-ovulatory) phase begins, named after the follicles, small sacs in the ovaries where eggs mature. The pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which initiates the growth of follicles. Oestrogen levels gradually rise, stimulating the renewal of the uterine lining and bringing with it a wave of new energy.
Most women perceive this phase as a period of "new beginnings". They feel fresher, lighter, and more motivated. Concentration improves, as does the desire for work and social life.
Archetype: Maiden
The pre-ovulatory phase corresponds to the archetype of the Maiden, a young, curious woman full of vigour and determination. It is the energy of spring and the waxing moon. Everything begins to bloom again, new ideas emerge, and there's a desire to create and plan.
The Maiden is independent, dynamic, analytical, and goal-oriented. She has clear thinking, the ability to organise, and to set priorities. Now is the ideal time to start new projects, learn new things, and set goals.
Key characteristics of this phase: fresh energy, clear thinking, planning, new beginnings, determination.
What to eat
In the follicular phase, the body needs energy for growth and renewal. The diet should be varied, light, and nutritious, focusing on quality proteins and complex carbohydrates:
- Proteins - eggs, tofu, legumes, quark, tempeh
- Complex carbohydrates - quinoa, wholemeal bread, brown rice
- Sprouted seeds and fermented foods - kimchi, fermented vegetables, yoghurt
- Healthy fats - avocado, nuts, olive oil
- Fresh vegetables and fruits - broccoli, carrots, citrus fruits, berries
- Herbs - parsley, mint, basil
Movement
As your energy rises and strengthens, you can engage in more demanding exercise, such as strength training, HIIT, faster running, group classes, dancing, or trying new sports activities. The body is ready for performance in this phase, and recovery happens faster.
How to take care of yourself
Use the rising energy for planning, brainstorming, and starting new projects, whether work-related, creative, or personal. Get a new notebook, write down your goals for the upcoming month, sign up for a course you've been putting off.
BEWIT VIRGIN - The Maiden for your pre-ovulatory phase
The BEWIT Virgin essential blend captures the energy of the pre-ovulatory phase. Its floral scent with notes of citrus and resins precisely reflects the spring dynamism of this period. Refreshing citrus brings joy and clarity, ylang-ylang and rose develop feminine playfulness and creativity, frankincense and myrrh ground the mind and strengthen inner stability.
Virgin will help you:
- promote clear thinking and concentration
- direct and consciously anchor energy towards a clear goal
- maintain inner balance even during a busy period
How to use VIRGIN: as a morning perfume in a roll-on bottle, it will give you energy for the whole day. In a diffuser while working, it will support concentration and clear thinking. It adds a fresh boost to a bath and awakens the body to activity during a massage.
Phase 3: Ovulation (Days 14–20) - Queen - BEWIT QUEEN
Ovulation occurs approximately in the middle of the cycle, when increased oestrogen levels stimulate the release of luteinising hormone (LH), leading to the release of a mature egg from the ovary. Ovulation itself lasts approximately 24 hours, but the entire period around it is hormonally most intense, as oestrogen reaches its peak.
During this period, a woman typically feels vital, confident, communicative, and attractive. Many women report that they speak better, look better, and generally feel that things come easier to them during the ovulatory phase.
Archetype: Queen, Mother
Ovulation corresponds to the archetype of the Queen and Mother, a woman who nurtures, communicates, and radiates natural feminine power. It is the energy of summer and the full moon: full maturity, warmth, and abundance.
The Queen is empathetic, generous, communicative, and open. She naturally attracts people around her, can create harmony in relationships, and take care of projects and loved ones. Without trying too hard, she appears very feminine, which naturally draws attention.
Key characteristics of this phase: fertility, love, communication, caring for others, natural attractiveness.
What to eat
During the ovulatory phase, oestrogen is at its peak, so it's good to include foods rich in fibre, antioxidants, and substances that help the body naturally process hormones. Focus on foods rich in fibre, antioxidants, and detox-supporting substances.
Recommended foods:
- Cruciferous vegetables - broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi (valuable sources of vitamins and fibre)
- Fibre - whole grains, flaxseeds, chia
- Antioxidants - berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries), pomegranate
- Light proteins - tempeh, tofu, legumes, dairy products
- Vegetables with high water content - cucumbers, courgettes, tomatoes, peppers
- Fresh herbs - coriander, parsley
Movement
The ovulatory phase is a period when women prefer more dynamic forms of training: intense strength training, running, intervals, team sports, or dance classes. Energy is at its peak, but don't forget about recovery. The feeling that you can do anything can lead to overtraining.
How to take care of yourself
If you have an important presentation, meeting, or social event planned, the ovulatory phase is the ideal time for it. Schedule important presentations, meetings, or social events. The ovulatory phase is also ideal for strengthening relationships and nurturing partnerships.
BEWIT QUEEN - The Queen for your ovulatory phase
The blend BEWIT QUEEN is the essence of the ovulatory phase. It combines rose, geranium, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, cardamom, lavender, frankincense, and patchouli. This blend enhances femininity, supports an open heart, harmonises emotions, and intensifies sensuality.
How to use QUEEN: as a perfume in a roll-on bottle, it will accentuate your natural attractiveness at social events. In a diffuser, it creates an atmosphere of love and openness. In a bath, it envelops you in sensual care. During a massage with a partner, it deepens intimate connection.
Phase 4: Pre-menstrual phase (Days 21–28) - Goddess - BEWIT GODDESS
After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which begins to produce progesterone, the hormone of calm, regeneration, and preparation for possible pregnancy. If fertilisation does not occur, progesterone and oestrogen levels drop sharply towards the end of the phase, triggering menstruation.
It is in the luteal phase that many women experience pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS): mood swings, anxiety, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, irritability, or increased appetite (especially for sweets). These symptoms do not have to be a "normal part of life". They often signal that the body is lacking important minerals or that hormone levels are out of balance.
Archetype: Goddess, Enchantress
The pre-menstrual phase corresponds to the archetype of the Goddess and Enchantress - a transformative energy that sees beneath the surface and is not afraid to confront the truth. It is the energy of autumn and the waning moon: beautiful Indian summer days are replaced by damp and melancholic ones.
The Enchantress is creative, intense, and intuitive. She has the gift of recognising what no longer serves and the courage to transform it. During this period, thoughts and emotions that you don't know how to deal with may emerge, and this is part of a natural inner cleansing.
Key characteristics of this phase: creativity, inner cleansing, completion, transformation, slowing down.
What to eat
The luteal phase is the most demanding and at the same time the most underestimated in terms of nutrition. The body naturally has higher energy demands during this period, which is why there is an increased appetite. It is important to supplement magnesium, vitamin B6, zinc, and healthy fats.
Focus on these foods:
- Complex carbohydrates - sweet potatoes, yams, pumpkin, wholemeal pasta (will help maintain a feeling of fullness and well-being)
- Healthy fats - avocado, coconut oil, butter, nuts, and seeds
- Magnesium - dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, almonds, bananas
- Foods rich in B6 - chicken, salmon, chickpeas, sunflower seeds
- Warm dishes - soups, stewed vegetables, broths
Limit refined sugar, excess caffeine, alcohol, and very salty foods, which worsen water retention and bloating.
Movement
Energy gradually decreases, so it is advisable to switch to milder forms of movement: walking, yoga, Pilates, tai-chi, or light strength training. Listen to your body. Some days you will still have enough energy for a more intense workout, other times you will appreciate just a walk.
How to take care of yourself
The pre-menstrual phase is ideal for completing unfinished projects, sorting thoughts, tidying the home and mind. Engage in creative activities such as painting, writing, or cooking. Allow yourself relaxation and comfort. Set healthy boundaries and don't be afraid to say no.
BEWIT GODDESS - The Goddess for your pre-menstrual phase
The blend BEWIT Goddess is a faithful guide for the pre-menstrual phase. It contains rosewood, blue tansy, geranium, clary sage, ylang-ylang, lavender, frankincense, and sandalwood. This is a composition that relieves tension, harmonises emotions, and supports femininity.
How to use GODDESS: in a warm evening bath (3–5 drops with 3 tablespoons of cream or honey) it brings deep relaxation. In a diffuser before bed, it stabilises turbulent emotions. As a massage oil diluted in a carrier oil, it relieves tension from the abdomen, back, and feet. As a perfume, it reminds you that there is strength even in slowing down.
Essential oils for the cyclical woman
The collection of four BEWIT essential oils Oracle, Virgin, Queen and Goddess together form complete aromatherapy support throughout the entire female cycle. Each blend has been designed to precisely match the energy, needs, and archetype of the given phase.
Four ways to use (applies to all oils):
First, test all mentioned blends on a small area of skin to see if you are sensitive to the blend. Blends containing citrus are photosensitive, meaning you should avoid direct sunlight after applying them. Follow the exact dosage stated on the e-shop.
Perfume - 1 drop of blend + 10 ml of jojoba or coconut MCT oil in a roll-on bottle.
Inhalation - 3–5 drops in a diffuser or inhalation stick.
Bath - 3–5 drops mixed with 3 tablespoons of cream or honey
Massage - dilute in a carrier oil and massage the abdomen, back, or feet.
For comprehensive support of female cyclicity across all phases, we also recommend the BEWIT Moon blend, which supports overall female well-being throughout the entire cycle.
Want the whole collection for the cyclical woman? With code LUNA, up to 50% discount
Add BEWIT Oracle, Virgin, Queen, and Goddess oils directly to your basket and have support for all four phases of your cycle in one place.
Add the Cyclical Woman collection to your basket
Enter code LUNA and get a discount of up to 50% off the basic price list for selected products.
Why it pays to live in harmony with your cycle
Perhaps you've been trying to be equally productive every day of your life. And perhaps you're frustrated that it just doesn't work. But that's precisely the problem. Not you, but the expectation that you will always be constant.
When you go against your natural rhythm, sooner or later you will feel it. Conversely, once you start to perceive your cycle and work with it, a lot of things will suddenly start to make sense. You'll understand why some days you're full of energy and others you're not. You'll stop blaming yourself for it. And gradually you'll find that when you plan challenging tasks for times when it naturally suits you, you'll achieve more with less effort. How to do it?
Monitor your cycle. Record the first day of your period - this is day 1 of your cycle. Gradually notice how you feel on individual days, what your energy, mood, and appetite are like. A simple app or a classic notebook will suffice.
Adjust your diet. Make a few simple adjustments. Supplement iron during menstruation, include more fibre around ovulation, and more magnesium before menstruation.
Try essential oils, which are a simple way to remind yourself every day which phase of your cycle you are in and to support yourself with the right energy.
Plan with your cycle in mind. Try to schedule important meetings and presentations for the ovulatory phase, creative projects for the pre-menstrual phase, and rest for menstruation.
Be kind to yourself. Try to understand your cycle and accept that you are a changeable being, and that is precisely where your strength lies.
What to remember from the article?
The female cycle is not your enemy, but can serve as your personal compass. Each of its four phases brings different energy, different strengths, and different needs. When you learn to work with them, you gain a powerful tool for better planning and a deeper understanding of your own body.
You don't have to be the same every day. Just know what phase you're in and adjust your diet, exercise, and pace accordingly. And if you're looking for a simple ritual to gently connect you with your cycle every day, try the BEWIT essential oil collection Oracle, Virgin, Queen and Goddess. Each of them was created precisely for one phase of your cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions - Female Cycle
How do I know what phase of my cycle I'm in?
Start by recording the first day of your period - this is day 1 of your cycle. Gradually notice how you feel on individual days. Approximately days 1–6 are menstruation, days 7–13 are the pre-ovulatory phase, days 14–20 are ovulation, and days 21–28 are the pre-menstrual phase. Over time, you'll recognise your own rhythm.
Is it normal for my mood to change during my cycle?
Yes. Mood swings are related to natural changes in oestrogen and progesterone levels. When you understand these changes, you'll stop blaming yourself for them and learn to work with them.
What to do if I have severe PMS?
Significant PMS symptoms often signal that the body is lacking something. Try adjusting your diet in the pre-menstrual phase, limit caffeine and refined sugar, and get more rest. If the problems are severe or persist, consult a doctor.
Can I exercise during my period?
Of course. The important thing is to listen to your body. Most women prefer gentler movement during these days, such as walks, yoga, or stretching. However, if you feel up to a more intense workout, there's no reason to limit yourself.
What is a cyclical woman?
It's a concept based on Miranda Gray's book, which describes four female archetypes corresponding to the four phases of the menstrual cycle - the Wise Woman, the Maiden, the Queen, and the Goddess. A cyclical woman is one who perceives, respects, and consciously works with her cycle.
How can essential oils help me during my cycle?
Essential oils affect emotions and the nervous system through smell. Each phase of the cycle has different needs - calming, energising, openness, or relaxation. The BEWIT collection (Oracle, Virgin, Queen, Goddess) was designed to precisely match the energy of the individual phases. Just add them to a diffuser, bath, use as a perfume, or use them for massage.
Related products
