The menstrual cycle in five seasons: Rest, Rise, Peak, Settle and Drift.

Rest: your period (menstrual phase)

Both main hormones are low. A lot of people feel tired and want things slow, especially for the first day or two. Good for: slow mornings, routine work, early nights, saying no to extras.

Rise: after your period (follicular phase)

Estrogen climbs. Many people feel fresher and more curious. Good for: starting something new, planning, learning, trying that class.

Peak: around ovulation (ovulatory phase)

Estrogen is at its highest. Talking and being around people often feels easier. Good for: pitches, hard conversations, networking, the dinner with friends.

Settle: after ovulation (early luteal phase)

Progesterone rises. Many people feel steadier and calmer. Good for: finishing what you started, detail work, steady routines.

Drift: before your period (late luteal phase)

Both hormones fall. This is where PMS shows up for those who get it: tiredness, shorter patience, worse sleep. Good for: lighter days where you can, protected sleep, softer evenings, preparation done earlier.

These are a starting point, not a rule. Cycles vary in length, hormonal birth control changes the picture, and plenty of people feel little difference. Maeve starts with a typical cycle and then learns your own rhythm from your daily check-ins.