Rituals + Periods
"Easy like Sunday morning" has always been one of my favorite songs. It's an instant relaxer and transporter to all things good moments. This Sunday, I sit here on my sofa, bleeding. I started my period yesterday evening. I knew it was coming, as all signs pointed to the homegirl's arrival. My intuition proved correct. At first, I was a bit bummed, as tomorrow, the family and I are going for a quick getaway. I for sure didn't want to spend the majority of the time on my period. However, here we are. It is what it is.
Around this time last year (when spending time with each other IRL was an option), a dear friend of mine shifted my thinking around my period. She and her husband had visited a shaman, and he shared with them that the time during which a person is on their period is sacred - It is when we are most intuitive, most sensitive, and when we are most attuned. It would serve us well to practice self-care and honor ourselves and our bodies. Which got me to thinking, what if we intentionally practiced ritual during our periods? What if we allowed our periods to be a moment of taking space + practicing ritual. Here are a few ways to begin:
While you are shedding, ask yourself, 'what am I shedding during this time? What am I letting go of?'
Envision what you are calling forth. What do you want to bring in during this time of renewal?
Either prepare yourself a meal or order in. Whatever it is that you eat, let it being nourishing + filling. Comfort food is your friend during this time.
Hydrate with warming teas. I love Moon Juice's golden milk tea. I also love Roots Heart and Mind's Postpartum Tea (It's great for when you need some extra warmth.)
Rest. Don't push yourself. Don't make any major decisions during this time. Dive into a good book. Just be.
Lastly, this time can feel different for everyone. For some, our periods can feel like a sigh of relief. For others, it can feel like a reminder of what was lost. Wherever you are, honor it. Create ritual celebrating the magic of your body, the resilience of your spirit, and the fortitude that resides deep within.