day 1

Day 1: Easing In with My Luteal Phase

Today marked Day 1 of half marathon training — and I’m easing into it with intention, because I’m currently in the luteal phase of my menstrual cycle.

For those less familiar: the luteal phase is the 10–14 days leading up to your period. Progesterone peaks during this time, often making us feel a bit warmer, slower, and hungrier. It’s not the phase to push for personal records — it’s a time to support the body with nourishing food, steady movement, and serious recovery love.

So, here’s what my day looked like.

I started the morning with pasture-raised eggs over avocado toast, paired with green tea, lemon, and honey. Simple, grounding, and full of healthy fats and protein — both key during the luteal phase to help stabilize blood sugar and support hormone production. I followed it up with a banana and peanut butter (classic), then laced up for a three-mile run.

I haven’t been consistently running lately, so I treated this as a check-in. My pace was slow and intentional — no pressure, just movement. That’s exactly what the luteal phase calls for: gentle endurance, lower intensity, and listening to your body.

Post-run, I stretched it out and kept recovery front of mind. In this phase, your body needs more magnesium and hydration, so I refueled with a big dinner salad: kale, sweet potatoes, grilled chicken, apples, cucumbers, walnuts, red onion — and water with LMNT electrolytes. Full of micronutrients, fiber, and healthy carbs to replenish and calm the nervous system. I ended the day with a few dark chocolate-covered almonds (because balance), and took a few minutes to dry brush before my shower to help stimulate lymphatic drainage and circulation.

The biggest shift in training with your cycle? It’s not just about doing more — it’s about doing what’s right for your body that day. And today, that meant nourishing movement, supportive food, and small rituals that make my body feel taken care of.

Here’s to day one — slowly, intentionally, and in sync.