As I reach the end of the follicular phase, I meet peak fertility during the shortest phase of my cycle: ovulation. 

The coolest thing that I have come to experience during ovulation is actually sensing the egg release from the ovary. About two weeks after the beginning of the menstrual cycle, I get a momentary tight cramp in my lower abdomen, which signifies the egg dropping.  

I can actually feel it switch back and forth from each side every cycle. 

I remember experiencing this “random” monthly ache, but once a friend pointed out that this feeling may pinpoint the exact moment of ovulation, I have come to be mindful and aware of this crucial part of the cycle. 

This particular stage communicates that it’s time to slow down. I may still have residual energy from the previous phase, but I must recognize the shift. If I engage in high-energy sports and activities, I start to feel the ramifications of the excessive expenditure. My body feels more tired, even if I am doing the same thing that I did just a couple days prior. 

I do want to be mindful of using my ovulation power. I still choose to bike, but I don’t push myself too hard. I may choose to skip a feature that scares me simply because I’m just not quite feeling it. I make sure to rest for a day or two in between rides. I opt for slower-paced, yet possibly still strenuous and challenging movements, such as a long hike with plenty of elevation gain or a dynamic yoga flow with strength-building poses. 

I notice that if I overexert my energy during the follicular phase and leave little time for rest and recovery, my ovulatory phase comes early, and, in turn, I experience a longer luteal phase. 

However, if I properly balance the time leading up to ovulation, I get to reap the benefits of a longer and more energizing follicular phase, shortening the restful luteal phase. 

Quite honestly, there are so many factors that influence these monthly transitions, and it’s not always identical. 

But that’s the beauty of it. 

Taking time to notice and accept how I feel ensures that my mind and my body are synced no matter how the cycle manifests. 

My mind and body are both aware of the present moment. I am completely at peace with how my inner body reacts to outside forces. I notice these signs and consciously choose the best path to move forward. 

Currently as I write this, I am using my 20’s to learn about myself. Progressing in sports. Spending time with like-minded people. Experiencing life with my partner. I am intentionally making the decision to not bring a child into the world because I know I’m not ready for that stage of life (and what a privilege it is to have this bodily autonomy!). 

Because of this knowledge, I know that after ovulation *should* be the luteal phase. I start to prepare for this stage of my cycle through sustaining my body. Due to the leftover energy from the peak of my follicular phase, as well as the transformation into the luteal phase, I observe that my appetite ramps up. Especially due to my participation in outdoor sports. 

I crave a healthy mix of carbohydrate-loaded grains, nutrient-dense fresh produce, and a bit of protein. 

Sandwiches. Wraps. Gyros. Burritos. 

Basically whatever I ate the week before, but wrapped in my choice of starch-rich package. The increase in carbohydrates fuels my mind and body. And the complete blend of nutrients energizes me for the final stage of my journey: the luteal phase.