A period is more than words can describe; it’s an intimate experience that all women share. So how does society make sense of such a natural and divine process? Throughout history, humans have related the menstrual cycle with the moon cycle.
As the 28-day moon cycle resembles the constant change and transformation that a woman experiences during her menstrual cycle.
The first day of the menstruation cycle starts with the first day of bleeding, and then it will last 1-8 days.
After the menstruation stops, the uterine lining starts to prepare itself to become pregnant, thus becoming thicker and enriched with nutrients.
During days 13 - 28, the egg is released down the fallopian tubes to the uterus, where it can be fertilized and attached to the uterine wall.
IF the eggs were not fertilized, then the uterus begins to shed its lining along with the egg.
We see goddesses portrayed as the moon through self-empowerment and self-discovery across cultures.
SELENA is the Greek embodiment of the moon. Selene is worshipped due to her ability to pull the moon across the sky with her chariot.
CHANG is the Chinese moon goddess who is celebrated in novels and poems for her eternal life and light.
METZLI is the Aztec god or goddess of the night. Also known as the Old Mother, represented by the earth and the
moon.
HOWEVER, IT WAS NOT ALWAYS LIKE THAT.
Women throughout the world have also faced harsh backlash due to their natural cycle. In places like Nepal, they face severe discrimination and are forced to isolate themselves in closet size spaces. This practice is called Chaupadi and has recently been outlawed, yet women still face difficulty expressing their needs and finding the proper care for their bodies.
We must remember we are in charge of creating our reality and culture. Together, we can overcome generations of misplaced menstrual knowledge into a functional understanding of the women’s natural cycle.
