Travelling in sync with my body

On a recent trip to Berlin, I was reminded just how helpful cycle tracking can be when you’re travelling. I landed just as I was moving out of my follicular phase and heading into ovulation. In cycle terms ovulation is the “summer” season.

I didn’t plan it this way, but the timing was perfect and from the moment I arrived, the energy of the city matched my own.  The first afternoon was a little rainy but for the rest of the trip the sun was out, and I had more energy than I’d felt in months, my body felt alive. I was able to enjoy the city with the support of my hormones knowing that I could lean into my ovulatory energy and enjoy a late night or two if I wanted.

Cycle awareness is about working with your body rather than pushing against it and here’s how cycle tracking can support that whilst travelling:

• Comfort & preparedness: Knowing when your period might arrive means you can pack what you need and prepare for its arrival in an unfamiliar place.

• Energy management: Different phases of your cycle affect energy, mood, and focus which are valuable insights when deciding your holiday activities.

• Food & body support: You can anticipate cravings, digestion, or sensitivities and plan snacks or meals accordingly.

• Rest & recovery: Travel is often over stimulating. Cycle awareness helps you know when to schedule downtime versus when to push a little further.

  
  

But what if your cycle is irregular?

Not everyone has a predictable cycle, mine isn’t always exact either. Here’s what helps when planning a trip with irregular periods:

· Listen for cues - Energy shifts, cravings, and mood swings often tell you more than an app.

· Always pack a little kit - A tiny pouch with period essentials means you’ll never get caught off guard.

· Track anyway - Even with irregular cycles, patterns start to emerge when you jot things down.

· Go with the vibes - If you feel like you’re in ovulation-summer, I lean into it. If your body feels more menstrual-winter, give yourself permission to slow down, even if the calendar says otherwise.

I like to think of cycle awareness as having an extra compass, it doesn’t control the trip, but it can help you move through it in a way that feels good for your body.