Your cycle affects your love life.
But you’re not surprised, right? Your cycle affects almost everything!
Just as your energy, attitude, strengths and desires change over the course of your cycle, so does what makes you happy and in love in your relationship.
Think about it: You might not crave going dancing all night when you’re on your period, do you? But around ovulation, you’re probably ready to hit the town, do karaoke, dance and stay up all night!
Three important notes before you start syncing your date nights:
Every person has a different cycle, so figure out what jibes with you! I’m sure there are some people out there who want to go dancing all night every time they have a period. The beauty is discovering your unique cycle.
This only works if you actually listen to what YOU truly desire. Next cycle, take a note each week about what type of fun interaction you’re craving with your partner. The following cycle, you’ll be able to look back and say, “Oh yeah, I wanted to have a quiet, romantic dinner out during my luteal phase.” Then, you can schedule the date in advance to when you know you’ll most appreciate it.
You need to get your partner on board! Give them a heads up that because of your biology, you like to switch up the way you do date nights in order to keep your hormones happy. Let them know in advance where you’ll be in your cycle and what kind of attention you’ll want from them at that point.
Dates for Your Menstrual Phase
This phase, you’re introspective and intuitive. You’ll gravitate toward quieter, more relaxing activities. Think of it as a time to nurture each other and restore the love in your relationship.
Classic date: See a light-hearted movie! Simple comedy or rom-com suggested. Extra points for a drive-in theater where you can get extra cozy in your own space.
At-home date: Give each other massages. Make your home spa-like with candles, soft music and scented oils.
Date with a mindful cycle twist: On your period, you’re more connected to water and fluidity. So, head somewhere with calm water. Think a picnic by the river or an easy canoe or kayak paddle session.
Currently single?: Avoid going on a date with somebody new. Instead, use this week just for yourself, and treat yourself to something nice during your solo time.
Dates for Your Follicular Phase
Now, you’re feeling more energized and inspired. You’ll be drawn to new experiences and more busy, social atmospheres. It’s a perfect time to try something new together!
Classic date: Get tickets to a sports game. You’ll be in an exciting atmosphere but still have plenty of one-on-one time with your partner.
At-home date: Host a game night double date or group date with some of your partnered friends. Plus, you get let the tension build up to be alone after the others leave. ;)
Date with a mindful cycle twist: At this time, you’re more receptive to surprises and spontaneity. So, put a bunch of date options in a hat and just go with the flow!
Currently single?: You’ll love a night out with a few close friends. Try a new restaurant or go to a concert! If you have a potential date, plan to meet up this week since you’ll be feeling social and energized.
Dates for Your Ovulatory Phase
Let the sparks fly! You’ll naturally be more ambitious and flirty at this time, AND your biology will make you more radiant and attractive to others. This is your chance to do something truly exciting that will reignite the flame in your relationship.
Classic date: Hit the town for dinner, drinks and dancing. You’ll feel drawn to that dance floor!
At-home date: Cook a three course meal together. You’ll love the teamwork involved, and it can be extra flirty to be in the kitchen together.
Date with a mindful cycle twist: You’re most daring and bold around ovulation, and your physical energy peaks. So, pick an active adventure date! Go rafting, rock climbing, or try one of those city-wide scavenger hunts.
Currently single?: Do something exciting with a big group! Play a game of pick-up soccer, go float on the lake or river, or host a big barbecue. You’ll love the social interaction and dynamics (and you might meet somebody who catches your eye). You might have more fun saying yes to that Tinder date during this phase!
Dates for Your Luteal Phase
Between ovulation and your period, you’ll begin to draw inward again and seek out quieter, more chill experiences. Use it as a time for the tried-and-true activities you love, and focus on what matters most in your relationship.
Classic date: Switch up the time of day and plan a coffee or breakfast date instead. It’ll give you a feeling of productivity, and some caffeine can give you a boost to plow through the to-do list of the rest of the day. Plus, you’ll be able to go to bed early to nourish your hormones.
At-home date: Choose an activity that you can “follow the steps” for. Maybe it’s a craft you can both try (like those step-by-step watercolor videos), or maybe it’s an online wine and chocolate pairing.
Date with a mindful cycle twist: Now that the lovey-dovey hormones of ovulation have passed, you’re more logical, practical and searching for understanding. It might be fun to take a personality test together: learn your Love Languages or discover your top strengths. Talk about why you love those things about each other.
Currently single?: It could be a good time for a second date with somebody, or to reevaluate your prospects. If you make no plans, your critical thinking skills will help you revamp your online dating profiles.
Syncing your dates won’t necessarily make or break your relationship, but it could help you dig to deeper levels of interaction with your partner.
Plus, switching it up each week keeps it exciting and gives you something to look forward to!
It’s like there’s something new to discover every phase and every cycle.
Remember to take time to think about your own cycle and preferences, and to get your partner on board, too.
What kinds of dates are your favorite? How do you notice your relationship dynamics change throughout your cycle?