For years, well into adulthood, I was horrible at tracking menstruation. The signs would be there but I was not attuned and attentive to what was going on with my body. At some point during the pandemic, I started gardening and using menstrual blood to fertilize my plants. That was the catalyst for my interest in menstruation, but just a mild interest in the way that I tend to live. And during this brief period of piqued interest, I for some reason was prompted to look into tracking my period based on the lunar cycle.
This immediately made sense to me as the moon is often viewed as all things maternal, emotions included, and it works under a similar 28-day cycle (29.5 days to be exact) from the first phase to the last: New Moon, First Quarter, Full Moon, Last Quarter. Somewhere in between those phases, you also have what is known as Waxing and Waning Moons, which often signify transitional stages in life as you’ll see shortly.
While I’m no expert on this matter, I’m going to do my best to make this all as plain as possible in explaining. I encourage you to do your own research in addition to the information provided here today. Whether you learn to love it or not, I think you might be intrigued to find out if your cycle is white, purple, pink, or red. And the particulars of each.
The White Moon Cycle & Its Meaning
The white moon cycle is the most common type of cycle and it means that your menses flow on or around the New Moon, while ovulation occurs on or around the Full Moon. Since the Full Moon is said to be the most fertile time for planet Earth, this particular phase usually occurs when women are in the role of nurturer to their current children and family or themselves. The other possibility regarding children is that you may feel ready to conceive children and ready to become pregnant. These women tend to be highly favored and revered by the patriarchy as women who gladly step into what is said to be "their place in this world."
The Red Moon Cycle & Its Meaning
It has often been said that women who are on the red moon cycle are healers and witches, at least amongst our dear ancestors of many moons ago. Those who menstruate during this cycle, found less often than the white moon cycle, were said to be focusing creative energy inward. Their cycles begin on or around the Full Moon and conversely they ovulate during the New Moon. Arguably, in my opinion, these women are well-rounded – though they too may be mothers, they are mothers who prioritize self-development, ongoing growth, and community. They look for themselves outside of that one title, mother, and seek out more in life. This is not to say there is anything wrong with wholly fulfilling the role of caregiver, as both require the same amount of commitment and energy.
The Purple Moon Cycle & Its Meaning
Purple moon cycles tend to happen for those who menstruate when the moon is waning – this occurs when the Full Moon is transitioning to the New Moon. If you’re someone who gets your menses during this time of the lunar phase, it is said that you are also in a transitional stage of your life. However, the shift more specifically can mean you’re moving into a place of darkness or rest in the same way that the moon asks each of us to do when we go from a bright New Moon to the darker skies of the Full Moon. Use this time to reflect on what’s not working for you. Reflect, but don’t act quite yet.
The Pink Moon Cycle & Its Meaning
While having your period during the Waxing Moon, also known as a pink moon cycle, is similarly about transitions in your life, it oppositely means you’re leaving a period of rest and rejuvenation and walking into the light so to speak. Once you’ve come out of resting, the idea is that you will walk into strength and power, love and light.
Please note that your “moon day” can be consistent but should it switch to another phase don’t be alarmed, as it’s actually common that it changes based on where you are in life. Instead, use that as a compass to guide you and reveal what type of nurturing advice Mother Moon is attempting to offer you here.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Getty Images
- When's The Best Time Of The Month? For Sex, Fitness & To Conceive ›
- I Shamelessly Use 'Blood Tea' For My Houseplants--Here's What ... ›
- These Foods Will Make Your Period So Much Easier To Handle ›
- Here's How The Full Moon In Sagittarius Will Affect Your Sign ›
- 6 Sex Positions To Try During The Next New Moon ›
Motor City native, Atlanta living. Sagittarius. Writer. Sexpert. Into all things magical, mystical, and unknown. I'll try anything at least once but you knew that the moment I revealed that I was a Sag.
Reset Your Relationship: How To Start 2025 Strong With Your Partner
As the calendar turns and a new year unfolds, many of us are laser-focused on our career goals, fitness resolutions, and vision boards that outline the journey to our best selves. But amidst all the planning and self-improvement, have you made room for another important part of your life? Your relationship.
It's easy for couples to fall into a routine, going through the motions and letting their connection sit on autopilot. While comfort is natural in a long-term relationship, it’s important to remember: that what you don’t nurture, eventually fades. So, why not make 2025 the year you reset your relationship? Here’s how to start the year with a renewed bond, reigniting the spark that brought you together.
Step 1: Schedule Your Reset Meeting
The first step to hitting the reset button is a State of the Union meeting with your partner. This is your chance to take a pulse on the relationship, discuss what's working, and identify areas that need attention. It’s all about creating space to reflect, without distractions.
Grab a pen and paper (or open a shared note on your phone) and come prepared to share your top 2-3 desires for your relationship.
What do you both want to feel more of in 2025? Maybe it’s feeling more appreciated, or perhaps you want to reignite the passion you had when you first started dating. Whatever it is, get clear about it, and make sure both of you are on the same page.
This isn’t just about listing your own wants, it’s also about discussing ways to nurture each other’s needs. Relationship goals should be focused on fostering deeper intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Use this time to check in, not only with each other but with your individual feelings and expectations. Set the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Step 2: Set A Date (Or Multiple!)
Having the meeting is only the first step. Now, it’s time to take action. One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into a relationship is by reintroducing consistent, intentional time spent together. For many couples, life gets busy, and date nights fall by the wayside. But dating doesn’t stop when you say "I do"—in fact, it’s even more essential.
During your reset meeting, lock in a regular date night that works for both of your schedules. This could be a weekly dinner date or an every-other-week adventure—whatever keeps things fresh. The goal is consistency. It’s easy to push date nights aside when life gets hectic, but if you set a specific date each week or month, you’re making your relationship a priority.
If you’re unsure what to do for your date nights, don’t worry! The key is creating new experiences together. This is what sparks excitement and brings you closer as a couple. Whether it’s cooking a new recipe together, trying a dance class, or exploring a nearby town, it’s about creating shared memories that build your connection.
Step 3: Find an Accountability Partner
Just like you might have a personal trainer to help you crush your fitness goals, an accountability partner for your relationship can do wonders for keeping both of you on track. Consider hiring a marriage coach or therapist—someone who can meet you where you are and guide you in strengthening your relationship.
When selecting a professional, it’s important to choose someone who truly wants the best for your marriage and can provide actionable advice.
Don’t be afraid to set high standards for your relationship, and seek guidance on how to keep it thriving for the long haul. In your reset meeting, discuss your commitment to growth, and be honest about areas where you may need support.
Marriage isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it endeavor—it’s an ongoing process. Regular check-ins with a professional can help keep your relationship in tip-top shape and “divorce-proof” by addressing issues before they become insurmountable.
Step 4: Try Something New Together
Stale routines can easily make a relationship feel monotonous. Spice things up by trying something new! Couples that explore new activities and create new memories together have stronger, more fulfilling bonds.
My husband and I host one of the top luxury marriage retreats, A Weekend For Love, designed to help couples experience new things together. From couples' workshops to outdoor adventures, the retreat provides a platform to rediscover each other and reconnect on a deeper level.
The element of surprise can reignite your connection. It’s exciting, fresh, and shows your partner that you’re committed to growing together. This doesn’t have to be a huge commitment—it could be as simple as trying a new hobby or planning an impromptu weekend getaway.
Your Relationship Should Be A Priority
As you start the year with personal goals in mind, don’t forget the importance of nurturing your relationship. It’s easy to get caught up in work, fitness, and family obligations, but your bond with your partner deserves to be at the top of your list. Resetting your relationship offers an opportunity to reignite that spark and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.
In 2025, make a commitment to prioritize your partnership, to nurture it daily, and to invest in its growth. Take time to celebrate each other’s victories, support one another’s dreams, and build a foundation of love and respect. When you start the year with a clear focus on your relationship, you’re setting it up for success.
So, before you start mapping out your new workout plan or work goals, do yourself a favor: put your relationship at the top of that list. Your love story deserves a fresh start, too.
Happy New Year, and here’s to a love-filled 2025!
Couples, if you are ready to do the work and invest in your relationship register for A Weekend For Love: Heart Retreat Feb 21-23, 2025.
Featured image by zamrznutitonovi/Getty Images
Since turning 30, three years ago, I have been on a journey of self-improvement and healing. During this time, I've adopted daily practices like meditation, journaling, and speaking affirmations over my life. I also began reading spiritual and self-help books like The Alchemist and The Mountain Is You.
These tools have changed my life drastically as I have become more self-confident and developed more self-love. Lately, one of my go-to's for a spiritual boost is listening to podcasts. There are so many podcasts to choose from nowadays, and they aren't created equally.
However, if you're looking for a podcast that speaks to your soul and helps you in your personal development, then check out the 10 podcasts below.
Balanced Black Girl
Balanced Black Girl is a podcast focusing on personal development, self-care, and more. Hosted by Les, adding this podcast to your list is a great start to developing better habits.
Take Back Your Mind
Take Back Your Mind is a podcast by Agape Church founder and pastor Michael B. Beckwith. This podcast touches on various topics like spirituality, purpose, mindfulness, and more.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
On Purpose with Jay Shetty features many guests, from Big Sean to former First Lady Michelle Obama, as they open up about their tips for success and biggest life lessons.
Keep It Positive, Sweetie
Sistas actress Crystal Renee Hayslett created the Keep It Positive, Sweetie podcast, which hones in on discussions like family, second chances, and the art of submission.
Diary of A CEO
Diary of A CEO is more than a business podcast. It highlights many conversations like how to sleep better, the benefits of fasting, and how to reduce toxins in your body.
Being Her
Margarita Nazarenko has built a loyal fanbase on social media from her straight, no-chaser advice on dating, and recently, she launched a podcast called Being Her. The podcast digs a little deeper into feminine energy, manifestation, and, of course, dating.
Healed Girl Era
Gia Peppers hosts the Healed Girl Era podcast, and the name says it all. If you're in your healed girl era or want to get in your healed girl era, then this podcast is for you as Gia and guests tackle topics like self-love and finding your joy.
Super Soul
Oprah's Super Soul podcast features interviews from a wide range of thought leaders in health and wellness, spirituality, and entertainment.
Everybody's Crazy
Everybody's Crazy is hosted by best friends April McDaniel and Savannah James as they open up about their friendship and navigating life. However, their girl talk doesn't shy away from tough conversations like grief and mom guilt and how to overcome it all.
Therapy For Black Girls
Therapy For Black Girls is a mental health podcast hosted by psychologist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford. The podcast covers everything, from dealing with depression to superwoman syndrome.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Feature image by lechatnoir/ Getty Images