Every month, my body reminds me just how human I am.

The physical aches, the emotional swings, the mental fog — it all seems to arrive at once, like an uninvited guest who refuses to leave quietly. During my period, my patience wears thin, my tolerance is low, and the smallest thing can feel like too much. Add in those relentless cravings that no amount of “willpower” can fight, and it’s safe to say: this is not my most “together” week of the month.

And yet… this is exactly the week I’ve learned to slow down and pour into myself without guilt.

Listening to Our Bodies

The truth is, menstruation isn’t just “a week of inconvenience.” It’s a biological process that demands a lot from us. Our hormones shift, our energy dips, and our bodies are literally working overtime to reset our reproductive cycle. Feeling tired, sensitive, or emotionally raw isn’t weakness — it’s a natural response to what our bodies are going through.

Unfortunately, society often tells women to push through, to “keep it moving” no matter how we feel. But I’ve realized: my period is not the time to ignore my needs. It’s the time to honor them.

My Self-Care Ritual

One of the most healing parts of my cycle is my shower routine — something I treat as a small ceremony of self-love. It’s simple, but it has changed how I feel during this time.

When I get home, I light candles and put on soft instrumental music. I step into the warm water, close my eyes, and focus on my breath. As I let the water run over me, I softly repeat to myself:

“I’m washing away all negative thoughts and energies that don’t belong to me.”

I take my time, feeling the stress melt from my shoulders. I don’t rush — I romanticize the moment, turning it into something sacred.

When I step out, I lightly dry my skin and smooth on cocoa butter shea oil before sealing it in with lotion. The scent is warm, the texture soft, and in those moments, I feel grounded, refreshed, and at peace.

Even on my most tired days, I don’t skip this routine. Because it’s more than hygiene — it’s me reclaiming my energy. It’s me telling my body, “I see you. I appreciate you. Thank you for all you do.”

Why It Matters

Menstrual self-care isn’t indulgence — it’s necessity. When we intentionally care for ourselves during this time, we’re not just tending to our bodies; we’re nurturing our emotional and mental health, too. Studies even show that slowing down, practicing mindfulness, and creating comforting rituals can help ease cramps, lower stress hormones, and improve mood.

The more I embrace this, the less guilt I feel for needing space, quiet, and gentleness during my period. And I want every woman to know: you have the right to do the same.

My Big Sister Reminder

Sis, your period is not the time to prove how much you can endure — it’s the time to let yourself rest. If you need to say no, say no. If you need to stay in, stay in. If you need a ritual that makes you feel like a goddess in the middle of chaos, create one.

Your body is already doing enough work. The least you can do is meet it with care, patience, and gratitude.

So the next time your cycle comes around, instead of dreading it, try asking yourself: “How can I make this week softer for me?”

And then, without apology — give yourself that softness.