In a technology-dominated world, we can sometimes forget that we don’t always need an app for that. Learning to track your cycle without relying on an app will give you useful insights into your health, your fertility and flow, and your emotional well-being. By paying close attention to the subtle changes in your body, you will gain a deeper connection with yourself and the wisdom of your womb.
How to leave digital behind
If you’re looking for a more organic approach to your cycle, here are the steps to get started:
- Start by recording the first day of your period. This is considered day 1 of your cycle.
- Track the length of your menstrual cycle by counting the number of days from the first day of your period to the day before your next period starts. This will give you an idea of ​​how long your cycle is. Cycle length varies from 21 to 35 days depending on the person.
- Notice the physical changes in your body. Pay attention to any changes in your cervical fluid, which can vary in texture and appearance at each stage of your cycle. As you approach ovulation and become more fertile, the cervical fluid becomes thinner and clearer. You may notice breast tenderness, bloating, and mild cramping as your cycle changes.
- Consider purchasing a basal body temperature (BBT) thermometer so you can observe the fluctuation in your temperature as you transition to different hormonal phases. Take your temperature every morning before you get out of bed and record it on a card. Immediately after ovulation, your BBT will rise slightly and remain high until your next period. Fertility increases during this period. A drop in your temperature usually signals the start of your menstrual cycle.
- Notice and record changes in your mood, energy, emotions, motivation and physical sensations. Some will experience noticeable shifts during different phases of the cycle. As you record these services, you begin to pick up on the patterns of your body. By being in tune with your body’s patterns, you can be aware of when you are moving into the next hormonal phase.
- Look at the patterns you’ve observed over a few consecutive cycles. By tracking changes over time, you can determine the length of your average cycle, predict when you are most fertile, and become aware of any irregularities or potential health problems.
Our hormonal cycles are like fingerprints, all similar in appearance, but all so intricately unique. Observing and tracking your own body’s patterns not only improves your health, but also helps you better understand your emotions and thought processes. The more we know about ourselves, the better we can take care of ourselves. And remember: manual tracking requires consistency and diligence. It may not offer the same convenience, but the benefits are worth your attention!
Rebecca Younger is passionate about herbs and women’s health. She strives to plant seeds of inspiration within her community about plant medicine and healthier ways of living. She studied herbal medicine at Herbalism Roots in Denver and is a certified Doula through the Matrona Foundation. She is the customer journey leader at WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
Read further