Welcome to the inner autumn phase of your cycle. In this article, we'll explore how you might be feeling, how to spot the signs of this phase and take a look at how a cup of Really Nice Tea Inner Autumn blend can lend a helping hand during this time.
We also chat with naturopath Brooke Oke to get her take on what’s happening in your body and bring you a little more detail on why we've selected certain ingredients for this blend.
What is your inner autumn?
Great question. Your inner autumn is otherwise known as your luteal phase and occurs around day 15 to 28 of your cycle. Everyone’s cycle is different and can vary from person to person and month to month. For the purpose of this article we’re following a 28-day cycle, but this may not be your experience and that’s okay.
What’s happening with your hormones in your autumn phase?
The stage is set with progesterone in the spotlight. As this hormone rises, your womb lining thickens, prepping for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy isn't on the agenda, both oestrogen and progesterone take a bow, leading to your period making an appearance (this is your inner winter but more on that later).
What’s happening in your body in your autumn phase?
Say hello to stickier cervical fluid and potentially tender, slightly swollen breasts. If you’re prone to breakouts this might be when you tend to get them.
“Your luteal phase is the time where hormones such as progesterone should be rising,” shares Brooke.
“We often experience imbalance in mood and energy when progesterone is low or oestrogen is too high in this phase. Breast tenderness and fluid retention can also be common. Supporting progesterone and serotonin levels in this phase may help to support a healthy mood, energy, digestion and sleep.”
What might be happening with your mood in your autumn phase?
As progesterone rises, you might sense your energy winding down. You might start noticing PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, irritability, and a hankering for comfort food – hello chocolate and pasta, we love you.
Phrases to describe your inner autumn
- My energy levels feel lower
- I need more space
- Ask less of me
- I don’t want to give right now
- My mood feels all over the place
- I’m struggling to focus
- I want to create
- I don’t feel like exercising
Really Nice Tea’s Inner Autumn blend
Our Inner Autumn blend has been lovingly crafted with these organic ingredients to support you through this phase:
- Lemon balm leaf
- Peppermint leaf
- Ginger root
- Liquorice root
- Ashwagandha root
Brooke shares, “Lemon balm is a gentle brain/ovarian tonic which supports regular cycles and progesterone levels.” She goes on to share,
“Ginger, peppermint and lemon balm can all help to dispel gas which will reduce bloating and fluid retention, while ashwagandha and lemon balm are traditionally used to support mood and brain function, they gently calm the nervous system and help us adapt to stress.”
Time to slow down
Your inner autumn is your time to slow down. You might feel less like socialising and crave more time alone and that’s more than okay. If you have any concerns about your cycle, please speak to a trusted health professional.
Our Inner Autumn blend is carefully crafted to support you through this season, along with our full range of organic herbal teas – we have a blend for every season.