We’ve all heard of astrology and moon phases, but did you know your menstrual cycle can align with the moon, too? We have Red, White, Pink, and Purple Witches – different archetypes connected to how your period syncs with the lunar phases. Let’s dive into these Moon Witches and break down what they really mean, PMDD struggles and all.
BUT, before we get too witchy, let’s set the record straight on that term.
Historically, witches were wise women, healers, & herbalists who used their knowledge of nature & healing arts to care for their communities. They were midwives, spiritual guides, and folk medicine practitioners. These women were highly respected members of the community
The negative connotation didn’t arise until the 15th-18th centuries, when religious & social turmoil led to the persecution of many women who practiced herbalism, midwifery, or non-Christian spirituality. These “witch hunts” cast women in a negative light, branding them as practitioners of dark magic. The term “witch” thus became linked with harmful stereotypes & the idea of malice, straying far from its original roots in healing and wisdom.
Today, many are reclaiming the term “witch” as a symbol of empowerment & a return to natural, holistic ways of living. The Red, White, Pink, and Purple Witches archetypes can be a way to reconnect with the wisdom of our bodies & the rhythms of the moon. So embrace your inner witch – or if that still isn’t a word you resonate with, let’s call it aligning with your Moon Cycle.
The Witches and Their Lunar Alignments:
Here’s a quick overview:
- Red Witch: Bleeds with the Full Moon, ovulates with the New Moon.
- White Witch: Bleeds with the New Moon, ovulates with the Full Moon.
- Pink Witch: Bleeds with the Waxing Moon, ovulates with the Waning Moon.
- Purple Witch: Bleeds with the Waning Moon, ovulates with the Waxing Moon.
Each witch has a different experience during her luteal (premenstrual) phase and unique challenges, especially if she has PMDD. Let’s get into what that means for each archetype.
Red Witch: The Full Moon Menstruator
Bleeds on the Full Moon, ovulates on the New Moon. As a Red Witch, you’re in sync with the most intense and active phase of the lunar cycle. The Full Moon is a time of heightened energy, but you’re going inward just as the world is buzzing with outward activity. This mismatch can make everything feel more intense.
Luteal Phase Challenges: You may feel like you’re at the mercy of the Full Moon’s pull, with emotions reaching their peak. PMDD symptoms like anxiety, irritability, or a sense of existential tension can be amplified by that high-energy moon.
Holistic Tips:
- Ground Yourself: Try walking barefoot on the earth, doing some yin yoga, or meditating with grounding crystals like hematite. These activities can help you stay calm and centered.
- Journal Your Heart Out: Use the heightened energy to get all those emotions onto paper. Reflecting can help you process and understand the waves you’re riding.
- Herbal Allies: Chamomile tea for calm, or ashwagandha for balancing stress responses, can support you during this time.
White Witch: The New Moon Menstruator
Bleeds on the New Moon, ovulates on the Full Moon. White Witches are aligned with the energy of new beginnings, renewal, and introspection. The New Moon’s dark, quiet energy can feel especially heavy when combined with your luteal phase.
Luteal Phase Challenges: You might experience a sense of isolation, low mood, or fatigue. Both your body and the moon are pulling you inward, which can make PMDD symptoms more overwhelming.
Holistic Tips:
- Brighten Your Days: Exposure to natural light can help keep your mood up – get outside and get some rays hitting your retina
- Balance Energy Flows: gentle yoga flows or tai chi can support a smoother energy flow and alleviate tension.
- Nourish with Magnesium and B6: Dark chocolate (yep!), nuts, seeds, and leafy greens can support mood and help ease PMS symptoms.
Pink Witch: The Waxing Moon Menstruator
Bleeds on the Waxing Moon, ovulates on the Waning Moon. The Waxing Moon is about growth, so Pink Witches embody transformation and change. Your cycle aligns with this build-up of lunar light, which can be energizing, but it may also bring a sense of “hurry up and do all the things.”
Luteal Phase Challenges: You might find yourself restless, overthinking, or having trouble winding down. The “go-go-go” energy can exacerbate PMDD symptoms like agitation or racing thoughts.
Holistic Tips:
- Wind Down with a Night Routine: Prioritise calming practices before bed, like drinking verbena of lemon balm tea, reading, or practicing relaxation techniques.
- Channel Restlessness Creatively: use creative outlets to release pent-up energy, like painting, dancing, or journaling.
- Relaxation Support: Supplements like L-theanine or GABA can help calm the nervous system.
Purple Witch: The Waning Moon Menstruator
Bleeds on the Waning Moon, ovulates on the Waxing Moon. The Waning Moon is about letting go and releasing what no longer serves. It’s a time of shedding, aligning with menstruation’s natural release phase.
Luteal Phase Challenges: The decreasing light of the waning moon can deepen feelings of sadness or introspection. You might struggle with fatigue, melancholy, or feeling emotionally “heavy.”
Holistic Tips:
- Release Pent-Up Feelings: Practice Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) or have a good cry to let out built-up emotions.
- Embrace Spiritual Practices: Meditation, prayer, or breathwork can help connect you to a deeper sense of peace.
- Eat Warming Foods: Think soups, ginger, and cinnamon. These warming foods can bring comfort and help you feel more grounded.
Understanding Your Moon Cycle
Tuning into your Moon Cycle means noticing patterns and syncing your self-care accordingly. Whether you’re retreating inward as a Red Witch, seeking comfort like a White Witch, embracing growth like a Pink Witch, or letting go as a Purple Witch, aligning your practices with your cycle can help ease PMDD symptoms.
So, which witch are you? And how can you work with your Moon Cycle to make your luteal phase a little less “witchy” in the bad sense and a lot more empowering? Let’s embrace the magic.