Our bodies are connected to the rhythms of nature and the cycles of the moon. So how can we get more in sync with the skies? Here’s how to find your flow using the four key lunar phases as a guide.
The lunar calendar is the one most widely used by various cultures, and it turns out, it’s not only the world’s timekeeper, but the human body’s too! We all have a “moon cycle” that affects our productivity, energy levels and moods.
The moon takes 29.5 days to complete a full lunar “month,” roughly the same duration as a menstruating person’s 28-day cycle. Cisgender or non-menstruating men, on the other hand, go through a 24-hour cycle—much like the daily moonrise and moonset. Testosterone stores are replenished during sleep and generally depleted at the end of each day.
The body of a person who menstruates goes through four distinct hormonal trends every month. Yup—just like the moon, which also has four phases! Each phase makes these people especially good at a different kind of productivity.
Some weeks they’re more creative; others are best used for planning. But understanding the monthly cycle through the metaphoric lens of the moon can be the ultimate lunar life hack.
Note: The actual four moon phases don’t always sync up with the four weeks of the 28-day menstrual cycle. For example, a person might start their period during a quarter moon or ovulate on a new moon. But the similarities between lunar phases and menstrual cycle phases are striking, so use this as a metaphor for your “monthly moon.”
The visionaries at INTIMINA have essential support for every phase and age, from comfortable menstrual cups to weighted trainers for enhanced sensations during intimacy, to pelvic floor strengtheners that are also beneficial pre- and post-pregnancy preparation and recovery.
How your monthly cycle corresponds to the four lunar phases:
1: NEW MOON
Like: The Menstrual Phase
Like the new moon, the menstrual phase is start of a brand-new cycle. The dark skies of the new moon are a lot like the “period pause” that necessitates a slower pace during menstruation. Sensitivities are heightened, allowing you to tap into your intuition and feelings. This reflective moment of renewal can help you initiate action from a self-authorized place.
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For period protection that also protects the environment, try a reusable menstrual cup. With an average of 20 billion tampons and pads being dumped into landfills each year, this footprint lowering solution can really make a difference! INTIMINA’s Lily Cup™ line comes in a variety of fits like the Lily Cup One™ for first-time users or the collapsible Lily Cup Compact™ that slips into a small, protective case. The flat-fit Ziggy Cup™ is the first cup that can be worn during sex. Or try a few different solutions in one of INTIMINA’s bundles.
2: FIRST QUARTER MOON
Like: The Follicular Phase
During the follicular phase, energy is building, making this a great time for action. Much like the waxing quarter moon growing bigger in the skies, plans and idea expand. Creative projects that were initiated during the prior week can really gain traction now!
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While you’re generating results in the world again, this is the perfect phase for doing some strength training—and that includes your pelvic floor. Working out this bundle of 14 muscles (as well as fasciae) is like preventative care for the everything from the physical impact of pregnancy and childbirth, urinary incontinence, constipation and painful sex. Yes, these are things people don’t usually talk about—but they can literally become a pain in the @$$ or lower back area if symptoms arise. Exercisers like the INTIMINA KegelSmart™ makes the prevention process easy with an automatic routine. Doing this for 5 minutes a day can deliver measurable improvement in 12 weeks.
3: FULL MOON
Like: The Ovulation Phase
During ovulation, the body is at its most fertile—and fittingly, this is a moment meant for generating results! Similarly, full moons are prime time to manifest. This is the week to put your work out there. You’re an attractive force, so speak up, pitch, collaborate and shine! What will you “birth,” metaphorically?
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Time to level up! Since you’re feeling strong and ready to take on the world, why not add some heft to your self-care routine? While you shouldn’t overdo it, you can challenge yourself to move up incrementally. Try a weighted training solution for pelvic floor exercises, like INTIMINA’s Laselle™ Weighted Exercisers which allow for correct technique of lifting upwards and squeezing during Kegel exercises.
4: THIRD QUARTER MOON
Like: The Luteal Phase
This “powering down” phase is all about completing tasks with laser focus. Like the waning quarter moon, light is dimming. Similarly, there’s an urgency to wrap things up during the luteal phase. The “balsamic” lunar phase happens in this week, 1-2 days before the new moon, when there’s only a tiny sliver of moonlight in the sky. We’ve long referred to the balsamic phase as “planetary PMS” since people tend to feel grouchy, tired and solitary on these days.
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As you’re counting down to your period, energy may wane, making this a good week to prep everything from comfort food to healthy snacks to your protection. Sanitize your period supplies with INTIMINA’s Intimate Accessory Cleaner so you’re ready to go with your flow when the cycle begins again. This phase may include some “dry days,” so adjust your diet to include foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, raw pumpkin and sunflower seeds. INTIMINA’s Feminine Moisturizer is ultra-light, water-based and paraben free and super helpful during this phase.
Power through your 28-Day cycle using your Moon Sign!
In astrology, the moon dictates your moods, emotions and how you nurture yourself. Knowing your moon sign—AKA where the moon was at your time of birth—is a great guide for self-care during your period, a time when your body is most sensitive.
Don’t know your natal moon sign? Use our handy Moon Sign Calculator to find it! PS: You can read the horoscopes below for both your moon sign and your Sun sign (your “main” zodiac sign)—and your rising sign too if you wish!
Aries Moon (or Sun)
You’re a warrior in most situations, so why not add “wellness” to that ever-growing list? Strengthening your pelvic floor in between periods with Kegel exercises can help reduce cramping. But as the zodiac’s first sign, you do like to be babied when you’re not feeling your best. Having nurturing friends and family around definitely helps to ease mood swings—just make sure you don’t take out your frustration on them when you’re having a moment!
Taurus Moon (or Sun)
TLC is a top priority for this nurturing earth sign—and more so than ever when it’s period time. From a cozy environment to nourishing food, you need to hunker down, nap and take time to restore yourself. Lean in to your pragmatic side and plan ahead. A week before your cycle, cook up batches of comfort food that you can defrost in portions for homemade meals. Best enjoyed while curled up on your oversized couch, with a cup of tea, a stack of magazines and the remote control nearby!
Gemini Moon (or Sun)
Relax, relate, release. Life wasn’t meant to be experienced alone, as the zodiac’s Twin knows. When your body and emotions are feeling sensitive, nothing shores you up quite like a cathartic chat with one of your most understanding friends. (“Oh, you have cramps this week too?”) These are the times when the best tips are traded, like nurturing holistic remedies, healing crystals for PMA and best-fitting menstrual cups for every body type. Humor is always healing for Gems. When you’re too tired to talk, a hilarious meme says 1,000 words.
Cancer Moon (or Sun)
La luna is the celestial ruler of Cancer, which may explain why you are oh-so in tune with moon. While others complain about their periods, you are awed by your body’s waxing and waning rhythms. In fact, your special connection to the cosmos feels soulful, spiritual and downright sexy at times! For sure, your emo moments may be intensified, so it’s important to have a solitary space for retreat. While there, get in tune with your feelings by meditating, journaling and listening to music. Some of your best creative ideas are bound to emerge from your period-powered epiphanies!
Leo Moon (or Sun)
For regal Leo, everything is ceremonial, and that includes your monthly moon cycles. There’s never been any shame in your game—and thank goodness for that! Friends and family know they can come to you for uplifting conversations about their bodies. (Here’s to #periodpower!) Since you thrive in a network of wise guides, consider creating a “red tent” with your period posse of friends who love sharing advice. During Biblical times, this was a space where women took refuge to support each other during menstruation or while giving birth. Tap into your creativity to reprise this with a modern (even virtual) twist!
Virgo Moon (or Sun)
Bring on the practical magic! As the zodiac’s health nut and trivia hound, you’re always searching for the latest body-based wisdom. For example, reducing cycle-based symptoms with natural remedies, like eating foods rich in magnesium or strengthening your pelvic floor muscles to lessen cramps. And as an environmentally conscious earth sign, menstrual cups like INTIMINA’s Lily Cup™ line are an optimal solution for lowering your footprint. You’re not shy about sharing discoveries, so don’t get annoyed if friends treat you like their personal Google! Being the one with all the answers is the Virgo way!
Libra Moon (or Sun)
Libra loves to luxuriate, and your period provides the perfect “excuse” to take a much-needed self-care break. Oh, who are we kidding? If life could be an extended spa day, you’d be tickled pink. That’s especially true on days when you’re in “flow state,” so make sure you’re stocked up on bath bombs, herbal teas, personal care products—and of course, artisanal chocolate. Since life is a fashion show for Libras, pick out a few special robes, slippers and PJs for period days, so you can pamper yourself in style!
Scorpio Moon (or Sun)
Power to the pelvis! Intimate, alchemical Scorpio is the zodiac ruler of the reproductive organs and the legendary “sex sign” of the zodiac. You have a sacred relationship you have to your body! Rather than treating your monthly moon cycles like a disruptive inconvenience, you’d do well to ritualize your period weeks. These are times where you can enjoy the introspective side of your personality, drawing back for solitary reflection as you journal, work on creative projects and “just be.” Your minxy side might emerge—and if so, INTIMINA’s Ziggy Cup™ was designed with a special fit to provide period protection during sexytime.
Sagittarius Moon (or Sun)
Traveling may be restricted, but good luck telling nomadic Sagittarius to stay in one place! Discovery and novelty lift your spirits, even when you’re in a touchy mood. Whether you’re taking a gentle walk to the local coffeeshop or going on a drive through picturesque scenery, getting out of the house during period week is a good move for you. Laughter is the best medicine for your witty sign. When you’re feeling fatigued, binge-watch comedies and series that make you laugh with their highbrow humor. Indulging in snack food can be a vice, however, so make sure you have healthy options on hand during chilltime.
Capricorn Moon (or Sun)
Pitch meetings, influencer cameos, taking the world by storm! Tenacious Capricorn is always ready to make the strategic move—and you won’t stop until you’ve reached the top! While your period isn’t an “inconvenience,” you do get annoyed if cramps, low energy or other symptoms slow you down. Scheduling your work months according to the moon can be a game-changer, so if you aren’t already tracking your cycle in an app, start now! Even a tenacious soul like you needs monthly timeouts to recharge and reconnect with your body. Lifehack your cycle and time your work, rest and play around your period!
Aquarius Moon (or Sun)
Dynamic, active Aquarius is not one to sit still. Even when you are, your mind is whirring at 100 mph as you dream up ideas about how to revolutionize basically everything and make the world a better place. So why not start with your body—AKA your soul’s address here on Earth? Keep your pelvic floor muscles strong so you’re ready for every potential stage of the game, from your monthly cycles to childbirth to incontinence prevention and beyond. But give yourself a break during period weeks. You’re not “falling off the wagon” if you postpone a rigorous workout and get lost in a reality TV marathon or a TikTok wormhole for a day!
Pisces Moon (or Sun)
As the zodiac’s empath, you’re naturally intuitive, picking up on the vibes of everyone around you. During your period, it’s important for you to retreat a bit so you don’t absorb other people’s moods—or take on their problems as your own. With your selfless nature, you have to remember to take care of yourself too! That goes double during your period, when your own energy can be lower. Don’t rush to return every text or promise support you’re too tired to give. If anything, push yourself to ask for help if you need it. People aren’t mind readers.
