We have been led to believe that the menstrual cycle is merely a biological process, but this could not be further from the truth. The menstrual cycle is a spiritual journey that enables us to experience different states of consciousness each month. It is a profoundly spiritual and transformative process.

Understanding our menstrual cycle and the various archetypes we embody throughout the month allows us to explore different aspects of our feminine energy. Ultimately, it is a cycle of death and rebirth. Once we grasp this concept, we can utilize it for personal growth, letting go of what no longer serves us and embracing new beginnings.

Miranda Gray developed a model in which the menstrual cycle is divided into four distinct phases, each represented by a different archetype: the Maiden, the Mother, the Enchantress, and the Witch. These archetypes illustrate the emotional, physical, and energetic changes we experience throughout our cycles, emphasizing the profound wisdom inherent in the cyclical nature of life itself.

The Maiden 

The Maiden archetype symbolizes the early days of the menstrual cycle, beginning after the period has ended. It is associated with spring, representing the beauty of renewal. During this phase, many women experience energy, clarity, and openness to new possibilities. This is an ideal time to set goals, embark on new projects, and embrace personal growth. Physically, the body is recovering from menstruation, leading to increased energy levels as estrogen rises. Archetypally, the Maiden is a young woman who is curious, playful, gentle, and eager for new adventures and learning experiences. She embodies the light feminine archetype and represents the first outward expression of the cycle.

The Mother: the Ovulatory Phase

The Mother archetype symbolizes the peak of fertility and is associated with the ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, which typically occurs around its midpoint. During this time, ovulation happens, and many women may experience a surge in social confidence, nurturing instincts, and a protective nature. The Mother embodies creativity, generosity, and the power of connection, representing a vibrant aspect of feminine energy and aligning with the second extraverted phase of the cycle. She fully embraces her ability to nurture and radiates warmth and care towards the people and environments around her.

In this phase, we often notice a profound sense of compassion and a heightened social energy, making it a prime time for collaboration and community engagement. We tend to appreciate the presence of loved ones and other women. During this time, hormone levels peak, with increased estrogen and testosterone contributing to greater self-assurance. Connection to nature also becomes particularly rejuvenating and significant.

The Enchantress

As the luteal phase begins, the Enchantress archetype emerges. This phase is characterized by the body’s preparation for either pregnancy or the shedding of the uterine lining. The Enchantress embodies mystery, intuition, and sensuality. She represents the first introverted aspect of the menstrual cycle, meaning we often crave more time for ourselves. This archetype is also part of the dark feminine. It is a magical time when we are deeply in tune with our inner oracle.

When the Enchantress is repressed, this can lead to discomfort, mood swings, irritability, and outbursts of anger, rage, or anxiety. However, the Enchantress phase is profoundly healing, and there is no need for shame. The key is to provide ourselves with opportunities to retreat from the outside world and find the quiet space needed to hear our inner voice. Honouring the Enchantress within us is vital to nurturing self-care practices and allowing time for reflection.

Finally, the Enchantress is connected to the characteristics of autumn. She embodies a mature and wise woman who is unafraid of her assertiveness, darkness, and inner world. This time of the month is perfect for making changes. While change may feel daunting during other phases, during the Enchantress phase, it feels freeing and natural.

The Witch: the menstrual phase

The Witch archetype corresponds to the menstrual phase when the cycle resets and menstruation occurs. It embodies wisdom and a deep connection to the cycles of nature. This phase involves the shedding of the uterine lining and symbolizes a time of release and spiritual renewal. The Witch archetype is an introverted phase linked to winter.

Women experience a heightened sense of introspection and deep knowledge during this time. It is a period for going inward, where the happenings of the outside world often feel irrelevant, and everything seems to move at a slower pace. If we allow ourselves to reduce our workload and limit social interactions, we can discover the magic inherent in the Witch phase. Rest is essential. When women cannot rest and retreat from the world, they struggle to connect with the void and deep darkness that holds so much power. This darkness is a vital part of the cycle and a resource.

Unfortunately, society pressures women to continue working and behaving "normally" during the Witch phase, which can lead to exhaustion of both body and mind. As women, we are naturally cyclical, yet we live in a world predominantly designed for men. Unsurprisingly, we may feel terribly drained.

Crying can be a beautiful, emotional release, particularly during the Witch phase. Many of us find ourselves quickly moved to tears during this time, a natural expression supporting our inner balance.

The magic that lies in our cyclical nature

This article is a simple introduction, but it gives an idea of the complexity of the energies and archetypes we are experiencing. As women, we are multiple and cyclical. Once embodied, this truth changes our entire experience of reality and represents a profound liberation. In other words, we are not one woman; we are always four different facets of our femininity.

We are cyclical. And our magic lies precisely in this cycle.