Simplifying Work Life During Your Menstrual Cycle

Written by
FYR
Published 8 January 2024
Three people sitting at a table smiling. Two of them have laptops that are opened and one has a notepad in front of her.
Your menstrual cycle isn't just a monthly occurrence; it's a powerful tool that can help you optimise your work-life balance, especially during that time of the month.
We caught up with Elise Sutherland from Find Your Rhythm – the first app in Australia to use hormonal phases to build personalised health and wellbeing programs – to learn how to hack your menstrual cycle and ensure your work days aren’t compromised by period-related discomfort.
Phase 1: Menstruation - Nourishment and Comfort
During your period, your body is shedding the uterine lining, which can lead to fatigue and discomfort. Here's how to make this phase work-friendly:
Comfortable Clothing: Opt for comfortable, loose-fitting attire to ease any physical discomfort.
Healthy Snacking: Combat cravings with nutrient-rich snacks like dark chocolate, nuts, and fruits to maintain steady energy levels.
Hydration: Stay well-hydrated with water, herbal teas, or fruit-infused drinks to reduce bloating.
Regular Breaks: Schedule short breaks to stretch your legs and alleviate any stiffness or cramps.
Phase 2: Follicular - Boosting Productivity
As you enter the follicular phase, energy levels rise, and you're ready to conquer tasks. Maximise productivity with these tips:
Healthy Breakfast: Fuel your day with a balanced breakfast containing protein, whole grains, and fruits.
Active Workstations: If possible, use a standing desk or incorporate brief stretching sessions to maintain alertness.
Task Prioritisation: Tackle demanding tasks during your peak energy hours, typically in the morning.
Get Outdoors: Schedule a walk-and-talk meeting, or simply take a stroll over lunch.
Phase 3: Ovulation - Peak Performance
Ovulation is your time to shine, with peak confidence and energy. Here's how to excel at work during this phase:
Meetings and Presentations: Schedule important meetings or presentations during this phase when your communication skills are at their peak.
Healthy Choices: Opt for lighter meals with a mix of lean proteins and fresh veggies to maintain energy levels without feeling weighed down.
Phase 4: Luteal - Self-Care and Focus
The luteal phase can bring mood swings and cravings. Balance work and self-care with these strategies:
Mindfulness: Incorporate short mindfulness breaks to reduce stress and maintain focus.
Healthy Snacking: Choose snacks rich in complex carbohydrates and fibre to stabilise mood and energy.
Prioritise Tasks: Tackle important but less demanding tasks, allowing for flexibility if symptoms arise.
By understanding your menstrual cycle and implementing these strategies, you can navigate work-life more effectively while embracing the empowerment that comes with embracing your body's natural rhythms.
Find Your Rhythm, a smart health and wellness app, gracefully guides you through the nuances of nutrition and exercise, all tailored to your menstrual cycle.
Using advanced hormonal science and a clever algorithm, the Find Your Rhythm app introduces users to the concept of cycle syncing. This approach empowers you to understand your menstrual cycle better, providing guidance on what to eat and how to exercise for your overall well-being.
For those intrigued by the concept of cycle syncing, the Find Your Rhythm app is now available for download on all Apple devices.
Top half of a phone on a light grey background showing the Find Your Rhythm interface with a calendar displaying the user's cycle

Find Your Rhythm
and work with your body, not against it.

Click the button below or download FYR from the Apple App Store.