Workshop to help understand monthly cycle

JULIA WADE

For local women who would like to learn more about how the rollercoaster of the monthly natural cycle effects their mind, body and soul, a special workshop ‘Mental Health & Your Menstrual Cycle’ is now on offer.

Organised by renowned Mangawhai photographer Josie Gritten, who has been running similar workshops for five years, says the group provides a space ‘to share, reflect and to learn from each other’.

“Ever wondered why you get so cross just before your period, why you feel weepy, joyous, sexy or creative at certain times of the month? Our menstrual cycle holds the key to understanding much of the way we are,” Gritten says. “When we come to understand our cycle, we can begin to work with it and our changing energies, rather than battling it out trying to be the same all the time!”

Gritten says feedback from those who have attended previous groups is very positive, with women often experiencing profound moments of clarity and understanding, which can then lead to deep personal changes.

The workshop is suitable for women 14 years and over who have been on their menstrual journey for a few months to many years.

“Through the session we talk and learn about patterns in our cycles, the wisdom and life seasons and how to honour our cycles, as well as societal attitudes to menstruation and alternatives to disposable sanitary products… and we’ll see wherever else the discussion will lead us,” she says. “Please join me for an afternoon of talk, tears, laughter, love and learning.”

Our menstrual cycle holds the key to understanding much of the way we are, says workshop leader Josie Gritten. PHOTO/SUPPLIED