Phase 2 · Inner spring · Waxing moon
Pre-ovulatory phase
After your period, energy starts to sprout again. A time to begin, learn and try new things.
What happens in your body
When your period ends, oestrogen starts to rise and an egg gets ready in one of the ovaries. Many of us feel more clarity, curiosity and a wish to make plans.
It is the spring of your cycle: like a seed peeping out of the soil, it is a good time to plant ideas and give them shape.
Plants and herbal teas
Plants that have traditionally accompanied this phase.
Nettle
Keeps nourishing you with its minerals while your body regains strength.
Mint and lemon balm
Fresh and light, they go well with this awakening energy.
Calendula
A bright flower for a phase of new beginnings.
Spring tea
Mint, lemon balm and calendula
- 1 teaspoon of mint
- 1 teaspoon of lemon balm
- A few calendula flowers
Pour over freshly boiled water, cover and leave to steep for 5 minutes. It is also lovely cold, with a few slices of lemon.
Foods that support you
- Fresh, crunchy foods: salads, sprouts, leafy greens, seasonal fruit.
- Fermented foods (yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso): they look after your gut flora.
- Whole grains and oats for steady energy.
- Flax and pumpkin seeds: some people take them in this half of the cycle as a traditional practice.
- Eggs and pulses for protein.
- If you eat fish: white fish or salmon, grilled or baked.
A vegetarian way of eating, with the option of including fish if you eat it.
Dishes for this phase
Simple ideas for cooking with what feels good these days.
Crunchy salad with sprouts
Leafy greens, sprouts, seasonal fruit and ground flaxseed, with a dressing of olive oil, lemon and a little miso.
Oat bowl with kefir and red berries
Oats soaked in kefir or yoghurt, with red berries, seeds and a touch of cinnamon or honey.
Yoga poses
Move slowly, breathe, and stay in each pose for as long as it feels good.
Sun salutation
A sequence of poses linked with the breath, starting with your arms reaching to the sky. It wakes up the whole body and gives you energy for the day.
Warrior I and II
Legs apart, front knee bent and arms stretched out. It strengthens the legs and glutes and gives a feeling of steadiness and confidence.
Tree pose
Standing on one leg, with the sole of the other foot resting on your thigh. It improves balance and focus.
Downward-facing dog
Hands and feet on the floor and hips up, making an upside-down V. It stretches the back and legs and strengthens the arms.
Exercise and activities
Exercise
More intensity if you feel like it: dancing, running, swimming, a new class. A good time for challenges.
Activities
Starting projects, learning something new, planning the month, sorting out ideas and dreaming big.
Plants are powerful too: if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, check with a health professional first. This information is for learning and taking care of yourself; it does not replace a medical consultation.
A word you don't know? Have a look at the glossary.
Share your experience
How do you live this phase? I'd love to read you. With your permission, some experiences will be shared on the site.