Luteal
ICE BATH FOR NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION
Sometimes you just can’t shake your mood during luteal - you just can’t snap out of it. That’s what this tool is for. When all else fails, try ice water. Not too much - I don’t necessarily recommend full body cold plunging when you are feeling sensitive - that might trigger more stress. The strategic use of cold water triggers the vagus nerve, the largest component of the parasympathetic nervous system. This results in a relaxation response, resetting of the abdominal organs to a resting state, and feelings of well-being.
This practice is just for your face, which engages the mammilian dive reflex. This is a natural response to water on the face and neck that optimizes respiration by preferentially distributing oxygen stores to the heart and brain. The increased circulation improves alertness and energy.
Method: fill a big salad bowl with water and ice, dunk your face for as long as you can and repeat several times, best done after washing your face in the morning. Bonus tip is to follow up with a facial spray - rose water is amazing.
I recommend this practice over full body cold plunges - when it’s cold outside - because warmth is very important for women’s health and menstruation - we always want to keep the abdomen, lower back and womb space warm, especially in winter.
SHOPPING FOR THE MENSTRUAL PHASE
While you’re still energized you might want to think about a shop to prepare for your upcoming menstrual nesting time. It’s important to prep food and meals BEFORE you enter the bleed. You will likely be craving complex carbohydrates and comforting food right now due to increased caloric needs during the luteal phase but looking forward to menstruation, here is a list of foods that include the nutrients and minerals your body needs then.
