Do you struggle to rest whilst on your period? Me too.

Let’s be real we live in a capitalist state where work and productivity are valued over rest. For those of us living in major cities that are fast-moving, and chaotic, we have to be very intentional about resting. Many of us wait until we’re on holiday to switch off, or we feel forced to rest during our weekends while our schedules are stacked throughout the week.

I remember when Sundays were truly a day of rest, my family would come together, cook a roast, and simply be with one another. That feels like a distant memory for me now.  Yet since practicing menstrual cycle awareness, I’ve somehow managed to prioritise rest whilst bleeding. For me, it's become a non-negotiable and basically looks like doing the absolute bare minimum. Of course, I can’t become a recluse and disappear for 5–7 days every cycle, but I do make small adjustments that make a big difference in how I experience my period.

Here are a few ways I love to wind down and rest during my period:

1) Adjust movement – I'm someone who likes to exercise a lot, and exercise during your period can help with symptom management (think serotonin boosts), but it’s okay to adapt your movement to something gentler and less demanding. I don’t pole dance on days 1 and 2 unless I have to work; instead, I’ll practise yin/restorative yoga and go for a brisk walk outside or on a treadmill. Movement helps shift stagnant energy, improve sleep, bring mental clarity, and support blood flow.

2) Reduce device use – Phone addiction is real, but I’ve found that reducing screen time during my period brings huge benefits to my mental and emotional wellbeing. Menstruation naturally draws us inward; it’s a sort of homecoming. If you’re receptive enough during this time, you can access deeper parts of yourself and receive the wisdom of your “inner winter.” Space and stillness give you the opportunity to hear your own thoughts and feelings, whereas phones and devices only distract and disconnect. So try logging out of the apps and turning towards yourself.

3) Prioritise sleep – Poorer sleep quality is often reported around menstruation, which is why a good nighttime routine is crucial. Our circadian rhythm and menstrual cycle are closely connected; when the circadian rhythm is disrupted, it can affect menstrual health. I’ve recently started using nighttime earplugs, and they’ve been a game changer!

Our bodies go through a significant physiological process when menstruating, so acknowledging this with intention helps me connect with it. I think of resting as a way to allow energy to build for the more outward seasons of spring and summer. And whenever I begin to feel guilty, thanks to capitalist programming, I remember the lineage of menstruators who came before me. They were shamed for bleeding, had little knowledge or understanding of their cyclical wisdom, and would have deeply benefited from nourishing rest.

All we really need to do is notice nature, nothing in nature blooms all year round, so why should we?