Luteal Phase: Inner Autumn
Rest, Reflect, and Rebalance
As we transition from the energy of the Ovulation Phase, we enter the Luteal Phase - the Inner Autumn of our cycle. This is a time of slowing down, of turning inward, and of gently coming back to ourselves. Just as the leaves change colour and fall from the trees, the Luteal Phase invites us to shed what no longer serves us and to prepare for the rest that is to come in the Menstruation Phase.
During the Luteal Phase, your body’s energy naturally begins to shift. You may feel more introspective, quieter, and in need of more rest. This is the phase where your intuition deepens, and your mind can become more reflective, allowing you to assess, evaluate, and prepare for a new cycle. It’s a time of nurturing yourself and honouring your need for space and rest, without guilt.
Embodying the Wild Woman and Enchantress Archetypes
The Luteal Phase is beautifully aligned with the Wild Woman and the Enchantress archetypes. The Wild Woman is deeply intuitive, fiercely independent, and untamed. She knows the power of reflection and retreat. She understands the need to step back from the world, to honour the quiet wisdom that comes from within, and to heal through rest and connection to nature. She is also unapologetically herself, honouring each and every messy, in-between moment.
Similarly, the Enchantress archetype embodies transformation, allure, and the art of quiet, mystical power. The Enchantress knows that true magic lies in silence and in listening deeply to her inner knowing. She is powerful in her stillness, a master of creating space for transformation and renewal. Both archetypes are deeply connected to the rhythms of nature, much like the Luteal Phase, which is all about shedding, reflection, and preparing for the next phase.
The Energy of the Inner Autumn
The Luteal Phase is the time of the Inner Autumn, the season of harvest and reflection. This is when the external energy begins to soften, and we are called to slow down. Just as fall invites us to prepare for winter, the Luteal Phase is a time to reflect on what we have harvested during the month and begin letting go of what no longer serves us. It is a gentle shedding of old patterns, old beliefs, and anything that has been holding us back. The Inner Autumn is about honouring your need to pull back, to nourish yourself, and to rest. It’s the season to nurture your body and mind, to be gentle with yourself, and to allow space for deeper understanding. If you have been pushing yourself too hard, the Luteal Phase gently reminds you to pause, realign, and care for your inner world.
Hormonal Balance and the Gentle Art of Resting During the Luteal Phase
As we enter the Luteal Phase, our hormones gently shift, guiding our bodies through a time of introspection and preparation - whether for the possibility of pregnancy or the release of the old cycle. With a rise in progesterone, we naturally feel a sense of calm, inviting us to slow down and listen more closely to our inner world. Yet, when we continue to push through the busy demands of life, refusing to give ourselves the rest we need, this delicate balance can easily become disrupted. Many of us experience symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, irritability, and bloating during this phase, often because our bodies are craving rest and nourishment. If we continue at the fast pace of the Ovulation Phase, we may unintentionally strain our adrenal system, which is already adjusting to the changes in our hormones. This can lead to stress, burnout, and even hormonal imbalances over time.
By embracing the quiet, restorative energy of the Luteal Phase, we allow our bodies to naturally return to balance. Slowing down is not a luxury - it’s an act of self-care that supports not just our physical health, but our emotional well-being too. Trusting the rhythm of this phase helps us maintain hormonal harmony and cultivate a deeper sense of vitality for the journey ahead.
Gentle journal prompts for the Luteal Phase
What in my life feels complete, and what am I ready to release as I prepare for a new cycle?
How can I nurture myself during this phase? What does my body need to feel fully rested and replenished?
Are there any inner truths are waiting to be heard?
Luna Wisdom: A Journey in Cycle Syncing
Now Available in Soul Shala
Step deeper into the flow of your cycle with our Luna Wisdom series. Inside Soul Shala, we’ve created a safe, nurturing space to honour each phase of your cycle - with classes that nourish, empower, and celebrate the feminine within.
Join us today and experience the Luteal Slow Flow class - created to help you slow down and find balance during your Luteal Phase. Along with a Luteal Phase workshop to help you find deeper hormonal balance during this phase.