Cyclical living is a holistic approach to aligning your lifestyle with your body's natural rhythms and the environment. This practice involves adjusting your eating habits, exercise routines, rest periods, and supplementation to match the phases of your menstrual cycle, lunar cycle, or the changing seasons. By doing so, you may achieve better hormone balance, manifesting as regular periods, reduced PMS symptoms, enhanced libido, improved mood, and more consistent energy levels.
At the core of cyclical living lies the opportunity to cultivate adaptability. This approach allows us to flow with the natural rhythms of life rather than resist them, fostering harmony within ourselves and with nature, creating a sense of balance and well-being.
One key benefit of cyclical living is its emphasis on hormone balance. Moving through a four-week cycle that mirrors larger biological rhythms, we can tap into a deeper connection with the natural world. This approach respects the circadian (24-hour) rhythm and recognizes the broader cycles of winter, spring, summer, and autumn within each month, offering a rhythm and energy that aligns with the way our ancestors lived. Additionally, the lunar cycle can serve as a guiding framework for this practice, especially if one is in perimenopause, menopause, or has an irregular menstrual cycle.
Table of Contents
Week 1: The Rejuvenate Set
Weeks 2 + 3: The Awaken Set
Week 4: The Balance Set
The Role of Cortisol and Insulin in Hormonal Balance
Humans follow a “hormonal hierarchy,” where hormones are intricately connected in a delicate system, much like a symphony that works best in balance. Imbalances, especially of cortisol or insulin, can disrupt the entire system. The sex hormones—estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and others—are particularly influenced by insulin.
When insulin levels rise, these sex hormones are thrown off. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, plays a crucial role in controlling glucose levels in our bodies and is strongly influenced by cortisol [2]. Increased stress levels elevate cortisol, leading to insulin resistance [2]. Oxytocin, however, sits above cortisol in this hierarchy. By fostering connections with others and increasing oxytocin, cortisol levels may be reduced, making us more insulin-sensitive and helping to balance our sex hormones [2].
Cyclical Living with Medicinal Mushrooms
Cassie Hawrysh, a Team Canada World Cup Skeleton Racer, shared her experience incorporating medicinal mushroom supplements into her cyclical living routine to address her health problems: “Do I believe that the mushrooms healed me? I cannot say for certain, but what I can say is that I haven’t felt this energetically organized internally in years!” Cassie's testimony highlights the potential benefits of medicinal mushrooms in supporting hormonal harmony and overall well-being. By integrating these supplements into a cyclical living plan, you can work towards achieving a balanced and harmonious internal state, much like Cassie did.
Incorporating Eversio Wellness Medicinal Mushroom Sets into your cyclical living routine can be a transformative way to support your health, whether you follow the menstrual cycle, the lunar cycle, or the seasonal phases within each month. These sets are designed to align with your body's natural rhythms and the environment, providing targeted benefits that enhance hormonal balance, energy levels, and overall well-being.
For those following the menstrual cycle, specific mushroom supplements may support different phases, from menstruation to ovulation and the luteal phase. If you align with the lunar cycle, the sets can be used to harness the energy of the waxing and waning moon. Even if you are a male and don’t have a cycle, you may prefer to follow the seasonal changes within each month. The medicinal mushrooms can help you tap into the restorative energy of winter, the renewal of spring, the vitality of summer, and the reflection of autumn.
The following sections will explore how each Eversio Wellness Medicinal Mushroom Set is appropriate for different parts of these cycles. We will explore the specific benefits of each mushroom type, how they can be best utilized, and why they are ideally suited to support your cyclical living practice.
Week 1: Embrace the Winter of Your Cycle with the Rejuvenate Set
During the first week of your cyclical living journey, align yourself with the energy of winter, the new moon, and the menstrual phase. This is a time to go inward, rest, and conserve energy. For menstruating individuals, hormones are at their lowest, making it natural to feel reflective, withdrawn, and more tired than usual. This phase is all about slowing down, regardless of gender, and it’s the perfect time for relaxing evenings at home, journaling, and introspection. Embrace the themes of release, rest, and receive to honour this part of the cycle.
The Rejuvenate Set from Eversio Wellness is designed to support you during this phase.
Turkey Tail for Immunity
In the morning, start your day with Defend Now Turkey Tail extract capsules to bolster your immune system and promote optimal gut health. Proper rest is crucial and challenging when battling illness or digestive issues. The immunomodulating properties of Turkey Tail may be particularly beneficial for those who experience autoimmune flares at this time.
Recent studies indicate that the menstrual cycle may affect the balance between Th1 and Th2 immune responses [3]. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels may promote Th2-type responses while suppressing Th1 responses [3]. This dynamic suggests a complex interplay between hormonal levels and immune function throughout the menstrual cycle.
Research suggests that Turkey Tail mushrooms may help downregulate Th2 activity while upregulating Th1 responses [4]. This balance is essential for immune health, as Th1 responses are crucial for combating viral and bacterial infections through cell-mediated immunity. In contrast, Th2 responses, associated with antibody production, can exacerbate allergic reactions and certain autoimmune diseases when overactive [4].
The Antioxidant Power of Ergothioneine
In the afternoon, incorporate ½ teaspoon of the rejuvenating 6 Mushroom Blend into your favourite beverage or meal. This blend is rich in ergothioneine, offering antioxidative support for both body and brain as you slow down and allow yourself to rest and reset. Combatting oxidative stress is vital during the menstrual cycle, as fluctuating hormone levels can lead to increased oxidative stress, affecting cellular health and potentially contributing to menstrual discomfort and exacerbating chronic conditions [5].
Reishi for Sleep
In the evening, unwind with Chill Now Reishi extract capsules after dinner and at least one hour before bed. The triterpenes in dual-extracted Reishi can soothe the nervous system, promoting a sedative-like effect that supports restful sleep [6].
By integrating the Rejuvenate Set into your routine, you can honour your cycle's winter season, allowing you to release tension, rest deeply, and receive the rejuvenating benefits of medicinal mushrooms.
Weeks 2 and 3: Embrace the Spring and Summer of Your Cycle with the Awaken Set
As you move into the second and third weeks of your cyclical living journey, align yourself with the vibrant energy of spring and summer, the waxing and full moon, and the follicular and ovulatory phases of your menstrual cycle. These weeks are characterized by creativity, energy, and connection.
In spring, your body matures eggs for ovulation, leading to increased estrogen levels that boost your energy, confidence, and optimism. This phase is perfect for planning, taking action, and trying new things. Summer, marked by the peak of ovulation, is a time for pleasure, connection, and play.
The Awaken Set from Eversio Wellness is designed to support you during these dynamic phases. Embrace the themes of inhaling, creating, and celebrating to honor the vitality and joy of this part of your cycle.
3 Mushroom Blend for Energy
In the morning, awaken your creativity and confidence by adding ½ teaspoon of the energizing 3 Mushroom Blend to your morning beverage or breakfast. This blend contains Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, and Cordyceps and may enhance energy, improve focus, and support immune function. Cordyceps extract may improve fertility for both women and men.
Cordyceps contains phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that may mimic the effects of estrogen in the body [7]. In this phase of the cycle, estrogen levels gradually rise to prepare the uterus for potential fertilization. Phytoestrogens from Cordyceps may align with the body's natural estrogen, supporting hormonal balance and regulating menstrual cycles.
The Antioxidant Power of Chaga
In the afternoon, take one Protect Now Chaga extract capsule to protect against and reduce inflammation as you become more active during this phase. Chaga's natural anti-inflammatory properties help you stay active and healthy [8].
Lion’s Mane for Brain Health
In the evening, after your meal and at least one hour before bed, take two Focus Now Lion’s Mane extract capsules. Lion's Mane contains phytoestrogens that may stimulate estrogen-receptor-beta, which may benefit sleep and mood symptoms associated with estrogen deficiency [9]. Its adaptogenic properties relieve stress and anxiety, enhancing neuronal and cognitive health and helping you continue learning and growing [10].
By integrating the Awaken Set into your routine, you can fully embrace the spring and summer of your cycle, inhaling the fresh energy, creating with renewed vigour, and celebrating the connections and pleasures these phases bring.
Week 4: Embrace the Autumn of Your Cycle with the Balance Set
During the fourth week of your cyclical living journey, align yourself with the grounding energy of autumn, the waning moon, and the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle. This is a time to reduce your busy schedule and slow down.
This phase primes the brain for detail-oriented tasks and encourages nesting and self-care. It's the perfect time to get your life in order, whether that means catching up on finances, organizing your wardrobe, or preparing meals for the coming weeks. Embrace the themes of reflecting, evaluating, and exhaling to honor this introspective and restorative part of your cycle.
The Balance Set from Eversio Wellness is designed to support you during this reflective phase.
Cordyceps for Energy
In the morning, start your day with two Energize Now Cordyceps extract capsules to provide natural energy and reduce your need for caffeine, which may interfere with your blood sugar and cortisol levels during this time.
During the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, many individuals experience a decline in energy levels due to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the rise in progesterone [11]. Traditionally valued for its ability to increase stamina and combat fatigue, Cordyceps enhances the body's production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy carrier in cells [11]. This increase in ATP production can help mitigate the fatigue and lethargy often associated with the luteal phase. Additionally, Cordyceps may improve oxygen utilization and efficiency, further supporting physical energy and endurance [11].
Tremella for Skin Health
In the afternoon, take one or two EverGlow Now Tremella extract capsules. Tremella mushroom possesses unique properties that may support skin health, particularly during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, when hormonal fluctuations can trigger acne breakouts. Rich in polysaccharides, Tremella has hydrating properties that draw moisture to the skin, similar to hyaluronic acid [12]. This intense hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and suppleness, reducing the likelihood of dryness and irritation that may exacerbate acne.
Additionally, Tremella's antioxidant content helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and inflammation, known contributors to acne formation [12]. By supporting the skin's natural barrier and hydration levels, Tremella mushroom may help mitigate the hormonal skin changes and breakouts common before menstruation.
4-Mushroom Blend for Balance
In the evening, support your wind-down routine with a calming beverage containing ½ teaspoon of the Balancing 4 Mushroom Blend. Blend it into a cup of herbal tea, hot cocoa, or a soothing elixir made with warmed almond milk, cocoa, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon. This blend's immunomodulating and antioxidant-rich properties reduce susceptibility to illness, making it ideal for this time of the month.
The 4 Mushroom Blend contains Reishi mushrooms, which may support mood symptoms commonly experienced during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This period, often marked by emotional fluctuations such as irritability, anxiety, and mood swings, can be challenging. Reishi contains compounds that have been studied for their potential to alleviate depression and anxiety by promoting a sense of calm and improving sleep quality [13].
Additionally, Reishi's adaptogenic qualities help the body manage stress more effectively, potentially reducing the impact of hormonal changes on mood [14]. By modulating the stress response and supporting neurological health, Reishi mushrooms may help stabilize mood and alleviate some of the emotional discomfort experienced before menstruation.
By integrating the Balance Set into your routine, you can fully embrace the autumn of your cycle, reflecting on your progress, evaluating your needs, and exhaling as you prepare for the new cycle ahead.
Recap: Cyclical Living with Medicinal Mushrooms
Cyclical living offers a holistic approach to harmonizing with your body's natural rhythms and the environment. By aligning your lifestyle with the seasons, lunar phases, and menstrual cycle and incorporating the Eversio Wellness Medicinal Mushroom Sets, you can promote hormonal balance, enhance your well-being, and create a more fulfilling life.
Whether you are in the restful phase of winter, the creative energy of spring, the vibrant connections of summer, or the reflective period of autumn, these mushroom supplements can support you every step.
Click here to access our comprehensive PDF that delves deeper into cyclical living. It includes Cassie Hawrysh's inspiring journey with cyclical living and medicinal mushrooms, offering a firsthand look at how these practices can transform your health. Additionally, the PDF provides more detailed information on nutrition and exercise tailored to each phase of your cycle. We encourage everyone to read it further to enhance understanding and implementation of cyclical living.
Embrace life's natural ebb and flow and discover the profound benefits it can bring to your health and happiness.
References
[1] Seematter G, Binnert C, Tappy L. Stress and metabolism. Metab Syndr Relat Disord. 2005;3(1):8-13. doi: 10.1089/met.2005.3.8. PMID: 18370704.
[2] Uvnas-Moberg K, Petersson M. Oxytocin, ein Vermittler von Antistress, Wohlbefinden, sozialer Interaktion, Wachstum und Heilung [Oxytocin, a mediator of anti-stress, well-being, social interaction, growth and healing].Z Psychosom Med Psychother. 2005;51(1):57-80. German. doi: 10.13109/zptm.2005.51.1.57. PMID: 15834840.
[3] Oertelt-Prigione S. Immunology and the menstrual cycle. Autoimmun Rev. 2012 May;11(6-7):A486-92. doi: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.11.023. Epub 2011 Dec 3. PMID: 22155200.
[4] Guggenheim AG, Wright KM, Zwickey HL. Immune Modulation From Five Major Mushrooms: Application to Integrative Oncology. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2014 Feb;13(1):32-44. PMID: 26770080; PMCID: PMC4684115.
[5] Vašková J, Klepcová Z, Špaková I, Urdzík P, Štofilová J, Bertková I, Kľoc M, Rabajdová M. The Importance of Natural Antioxidants in Female Reproduction. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Apr 11;12(4):907. doi: 10.3390/antiox12040907. PMID: 37107282; PMCID: PMC10135990.
[6] Qiu Y, Mao ZJ, Ruan YP, Zhang X. Exploration of the anti-insomnia mechanism of Ganoderma by central-peripheral multi-level interaction network analysis. BMC Microbiol. 2021 Oct 29;21(1):296. doi: 10.1186/s12866-021-02361-5. PMID: 34715778; PMCID: PMC8555286.
[7] Zhang DW, Wang ZL, Qi W, Zhao GY. The effects of Cordyceps sinensis phytoestrogen on estrogen deficiency-induced osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014 Dec 13;14:484. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-484. PMID: 25496560; PMCID: PMC4302055.
[8] Ern PTY, Quan TY, Yee FS, Yin ACY. Therapeutic properties of Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom): A review. Mycology. 2023 Oct 20;15(2):144-161. doi: 10.1080/21501203.2023.2260408. PMID: 38813471; PMCID: PMC11132974.
[9] Anuar AM, Minami A, Matsushita H, Ogino K, Fujita K, Nakao H, Kimura S, Sabaratnam V, Umehara K, Kurebayashi Y, Takahashi T, Kanazawa H, Wakatsuki A, Suzuki T, Takeuchi H. Ameliorating Effect of the Edible Mushroom Hericium erinaceus on Depressive-Like Behavior in Ovariectomized Rats. Biol Pharm Bull. 2022;45(10):1438-1443. doi: 10.1248/bpb.b22-00151. PMID: 36184501.
[10] Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, Wong KH, David RP, Kuppusamy UR, Abdullah N, Malek SN. Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30. PMID: 24266378.
[11] Lin B, Li S. Cordyceps as an Herbal Drug. In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. Chapter 5.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92758/
[12] Ma X, Yang M, He Y, Zhai C, Li C. A review on the production, structure, bioactivities and applications of Tremella polysaccharides. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol. 2021 Jan-Dec;35:20587384211000541. doi: 10.1177/20587384211000541. PMID: 33858263; PMCID: PMC8172338.
[13] Socala K, Nieoczym D, Grzywnowicz K, Stefaniuk D, Wlaz P. Evaluation of Anticonvulsant, Antidepressant-, and Anxiolytic-like Effects of an Aqueous Extract from Cultured Mycelia of the Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Higher Basidiomycetes) in Mice. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2015;17(3):209-18. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushrooms.v17.i3.10. PMID: 25954905.
[14] Liao LY, He YF, Li L, Meng H, Dong YM, Yi F, Xiao PG. A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide. Chin Med. 2018 Nov 16;13:57. doi: 10.1186/s13020-018-0214-9. PMID: 30479654; PMCID: PMC6240259.
Comments (0)
Back to Wellness Blog