Let’s get tracking! A guide to working alongside your menstrual cycle & not against it

Tracking your menstrual cycle can be a powerful way to connect with your body and understand yourself better, similar to what the authors of "Wild Power" advocate. Here's an informal guide to help you get started:

1. Get a Calendar or App:

Start by using a calendar- you can download one or print one out for free. If you prefer to go digital, you can use or a period tracking app on your smartphone. There are many apps available that make it easy to log your menstrual cycle - a lot of friends I know use clue! (I prefer paper myself!)

2. Mark the Start of Your Period:

On your calendar or app, mark the first day of your period with a symbol or color. This is known as Day 1 of your menstrual cycle. I use a triangle symbol or a red pen so that I can always connect to the start day.

3. Track Flow and Symptoms:

As your cycle progresses, jot down how heavy or light your flow is each day. Also, note any symptoms you experience, such as cramps, mood swings, or cravings. A few words is enough to start, for instance ‘energetic, focussed, active, light’ (hello ovulation!) or ‘heavy, dark, overwhelmed, low’ (premenstrual anyone?!’

4. Observe Your Energy Levels:

Pay attention to your energy levels throughout your cycle. Are there times when you feel more energetic and motivated, or when you need more rest and self-care?

5. Chart Your Emotional State:

Track your emotions and moods as they change throughout your cycle. You may notice patterns in how you feel at different times.

6. Monitor Your Libido:

Make note of changes in your libido or sexual desire. Some women experience heightened libido at certain points in their cycle.

7. Identify Your Menstrual Phase:

Divide your cycle into phases: menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. Learn about the characteristics of each phase and how they may affect you physically and emotionally.

8. Connect with Nature:

Recognize the connection between your menstrual cycle and the moon's phases. Some people find it empowering to align with the moon's cycles and engage in rituals or practices during their menstrual phase.

9. Reflect and Learn:

After several cycles of tracking, take time to review your data. Look for patterns and correlations between your cycle, emotions, energy, and other factors. This can provide valuable insights into your unique rhythm.

10. Embrace Self-Care:

Use your newfound knowledge to practice self-care tailored to your cycle. For example, during your menstrual phase, focus on rest and nurturing activities. In your follicular phase, harness your increased energy for creative pursuits.

11. Share and Connect:

Talk to friends or join online communities where you can share your experiences and learn from others who track their cycles similarly. This can be a supportive way to embrace your cycle's wisdom.

12. Trust Your Intuition:

Ultimately, trust your body and intuition. Your menstrual cycle is a natural and unique part of you, and understanding it can be a profound journey of self-discovery.

Remember that tracking your menstrual cycle is a personal and empowering process. Embrace it as a tool for self-awareness, self-care, and celebrating your innate wisdom as a woman.