Lunarception

While lunarception may not actually exist as a scientific term, it is a concept practiced by DIY and punk women who are interested in a more natural lifestyle. Back in the dark ages, before the existence of electricity, women’s biological cycles were directly synched with those of the moon. Because of this synchronicity, many cultures revered women as sages, healers, and spiritual leaders. Today, we live our lives sheltered from the elements, bathed in artificial light. We pay little mind to the phases of the moon, because it has no impact on us. Lunarception is a way to get back on track, and experience a regular, predictable monthly cycle without medication.

The process is simple: all you need is a calendar that shows the lunar phases, and a low-wattage night light. For three nights a month (the nights before, during, and after the full moon) sleep with the light on. Spending time frolicing outside on those same nights is also recommended. After a short while, the body falls into a rhythm: beginning ovulation under the new moon, and ending with menstruation during the full moon.

Coping with PMS

Once you’re all regulated, following a few simple tips can make PMS bearable. Things to avoid, or at least cut down on: caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, red meat, dairy, and refined sugar, and salt. Focus on: raw fruits and veggies and whole grains, water and herbal tea. Other things that will help: vitamin B-complex, Evening Primrose oil, exercise (particularly long walks outside and modified yoga), and Women’s Cycle tea (made by Yogi Teas). Cravings are believed to often be the body’s way of asking for what it is missing. So including a bit of chocolate, or salt, or vinegar (yes, some of us crave vinegar!) in your daily diet can actually be a good thing. Eating one piece of chocolate a day can quell the desire to consume an entire box in one sitting (also, good chocolates provide raised levels of seratonin which improves mood, and antioxidents which help you fight disease).