The Four Archetypes of the Feminine: A Journey Through Life’s Cycles

Our menstrual cycles, the seasons, the lunar cycles and the female life cycles are a medicine wheel.

Menstrual: I am the void.

Follicular: I am the muse.

Ovulation: I am the siren.

Luteal: I am the storm.

A woman who honours her rhythm is unstoppable.

I shared this simple reflection, and within a week, it resonated with thousands, over 3,000 likes, 300 reshares. Clearly, something in it speaks to a collective remembering, a hunger for deeper connection with our natural cycles.

For too long, we’ve lived in a world that favours the linear over the cyclical, a patriarchal structure that measures worth by productivity, output, and constancy. Most scientific research has been conducted on men, for men, dismissing the fluctuations of the female body as inconvenient variables rather than integral aspects of human experience.

For centuries, our cyclical nature was either ignored, medicalised, or demonised - seen as unpredictable, unstable, or even something to “overcome.” But what if, instead of a flaw, it was a source of power?

To reclaim the feminine is to reclaim the wisdom of cycles.

Honouring the Cyclical Feminine is A Revolutionary Act

The truth is, our internal rhythm is not separate from the world around us - it mirrors it. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, the seasons shift, and the tides ebb and flow, so too do we. Each menstrual cycle is a microcosm of these greater rhythms, an invitation to embody the fullness of our nature.

Our menstrual phase aligns with winter, the dark moon, the void - a time of deep rest and inner wisdom.

Our follicular phase mirrors spring, the waxing moon - the rebirth of energy, clarity, and new ideas.

Our ovulation phase embodies summer, the full moon - radiance, magnetism, and outward expression.

Our luteal phase echoes autumn, the waning moon - a time of refinement, discernment, and necessary release.

Beyond the monthly cycle, we also move through the greater cycles of a woman’s life: the Maiden, the Mother, the Wise Woman, and the Elder. Each phase carries its own power, purpose, and medicine. And yet, in a culture obsessed with youth and linear success, we’ve been taught to resist these transitions rather than embrace them.

But when we honour our cycles, we reclaim something vital: the right to move with life rather than against it. To rest without guilt. To create without force. To step into our full spectrum of expression, not just the parts that fit into a system built for linear progression.

This is not just self-awareness, it is an act of liberation.

A woman who moves in harmony with her cycles is powerful beyond measure. She is not ruled by them; she works with them. She understands when to rise and when to retreat, when to speak and when to listen, when to create and when to surrender. She does not fight the storm; she becomes it.

This is not about using our cycles as an excuse or a limitation. It’s about understanding our unique rhythm so we can move with life rather than against it. It’s about reclaiming a way of being that was once deeply respected, before a patriarchal world made us forget.

So, let’s go deeper. Let’s explore the wisdom of our cyclical nature, the ways it has been erased, and how reconnecting with it is an act of both personal and collective healing.

The Maiden: Spring and the Element of Air

The Maiden represents the beginning, the fresh stirrings of life and possibility. She is the essence of spring, a season of awakening, growth, and vibrant energy. The world comes alive with colour and movement, and the air is filled with the promise of new beginnings.

The Maiden’s energy is light, curious, and full of wonder. Like a breeze that dances freely through open fields, she embodies freedom, exploration, and the thrill of discovering herself and the world. The element of air reflects her boundless imagination and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. This phase is not only for young girls stepping into adulthood but also for any moment in life when we embark on new ventures, explore unknown paths, or reconnect with the joy of discovery.

She is the waxing moon, in the Maiden’s embrace, we find the courage to dream, to play, and to follow the threads of our curiosity wherever they may lead. Her gifts are self-discovery, independence, and the ability to see the world with fresh eyes. She reminds us that innocence is not naivety but an openness to life’s endless possibilities.

The Mother: Summer and the Element of Earth

The Mother embodies the fullness of life — a time of creation, nurturance, and abundance. She is the spirit of summer, when the world is alive with growth and vitality. The days are long, the sun is warm, and the earth overflows with nourishment. This is the season of flourishing, of bringing ideas, relationships, and projects to fruition.

The Mother archetype is not limited to biological motherhood; it encompasses any period when we care for, create, or take responsibility for something beyond ourselves. This could be nurturing a community, birthing a creative project, or tending to the needs of loved ones. Her energy is grounded, strong, and generous, reflecting the stabilising essence of the earth element.

She is the full moon, in the Mother, we find the capacity to protect, to nurture, and to give of ourselves. Her gifts are strength, creativity, and the deep satisfaction of seeing life bloom through our efforts. She teaches us the power of commitment, the joy of caretaking, and the beauty of sustaining life in all its forms.

The Wise Woman: Autumn and the Element of Water

As summer fades into autumn, the world prepares for a period of reflection and release. The Wise Woman walks in step with this season of change. Her presence is like a river flowing steadily, deep with wisdom and intuition. The leaves turn to gold and crimson before falling to the earth, a reminder that letting go is a sacred part of the cycle of life.

The Wise Woman represents the transitional phase of perimenopause and early post-menopause — a time of integrating life’s lessons and embracing authenticity. She is introspective, discerning, and deeply connected to her inner knowing. The element of water, with its fluidity and depth, reflects her ability to navigate emotions, to adapt, and to see beyond the surface of things.

She is the waning moon, in the Wise Woman, we encounter the gifts of self-reflection, inner clarity, and the courage to live authentically. She reminds us that true wisdom comes from balancing action with contemplation, and from honouring our intuition as a source of deep guidance. Her presence invites us to embrace the changes within and around us, knowing that each transition holds the potential for transformation.

The Elder: Winter and the Element of Fire

When the earth enters its season of rest and stillness, the Elder steps forward with grace and wisdom. Winter strips away the unnecessary, leaving behind the essence of what is true and enduring. The air grows cold, the days are short, and the world settles into a deep, reflective stillness. Yet within this quiet, a flame burns — the inner fire of the Elder.

The Elder, often referred to as the Crone or Wise Woman Elder, represents the final phase of life, post-menopause and beyond. She is the keeper of stories, the guide, and the bridge between generations. The element of fire symbolises her transformative power, her spiritual insight, and her ability to illuminate the path for others. Her fire is not one of destruction but of warmth, clarity, and the light of accumulated experience.

She is the new moon, the darkness, the void. In the Elder, we find the gifts of perspective, acceptance, and legacy. She understands that endings are not to be feared but embraced as part of the great cycle of life. She offers her wisdom freely, knowing that her role is to guide, to mentor, and to honour the interconnectedness of all things. Her presence teaches us the grace of surrender, the beauty of letting go, and the power of living in harmony with our mortality.

Embracing the Cycles of the Feminine

These four archetypes, Maiden, Mother, Wise Woman, and Elder, are not rigid categories but fluid expressions of the feminine experience. Just as the seasons flow seamlessly into one another, these phases can overlap, recur, and manifest at different times in our lives. We may find ourselves embodying the Maiden’s curiosity while also nurturing like the Mother or offering the Elder’s wisdom while still exploring the introspection of the Wise Woman.

Understanding these archetypes helps us reclaim parts of ourselves that have been devalued or suppressed by patriarchal and capitalist conditioning. They remind us that our worth is not tied to productivity, youth, or appearance, but to the rich, cyclical nature of our being. They offer a framework for honouring our growth, our transitions, and the full spectrum of our humanity.

By embracing these archetypes, we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of the world. We reconnect with the earth, the elements, and the deep wisdom that flows through all of life. In this remembering, we move closer to wholeness — a state of being that honours the entirety of who we are and the beauty of our ever-evolving journey.

Embracing the Cycles of the Feminine: Honouring Menstrual Cycles

The wisdom of the feminine is deeply connected to the cycles of nature, and one of the most intimate ways we experience this is through our menstrual cycles. Just as the seasons flow through periods of growth, fullness, decline, and rest, our bodies mirror these rhythms each month. Understanding and honouring our menstrual cycles allows us to reclaim a profound connection with our inner world, our bodies, and the natural world.

For too long, patriarchal and capitalist conditioning has taught us to ignore or suppress our menstrual cycles, viewing them as inconvenient or even shameful. We’ve been encouraged to push through, to stay productive, and to hide the natural ebbs and flows of our energy. But the menstrual cycle, much like the archetypes of the feminine, holds valuable wisdom that guides us toward deeper self-awareness, balance, and healing.

For years, I lived completely disconnected from my menstrual cycle. It wasn’t intentional — it was what I had been told was best for me. From an early age, I had mood swings that were intense, overwhelming, and difficult to manage. When I sought help, the answer was immediate and prescribed: the contraceptive pill. I was told this little pill would smooth things out, regulate my emotions, and make life easier. I trusted that advice, believing that this was what my body needed to be “normal.”

But the pill didn’t work well for me. I cycled through different hormonal contraceptives, each one leaving me with new side effects, new frustrations, and a growing sense that my body was betraying me. Eventually, I opted for the contraceptive implant — a solution that required less thought, less maintenance, and seemingly less disruption. The implant was replaced every three years, and during that time, I didn’t have a period. My body was artificially held in stasis, my natural rhythms suppressed. At the time, I welcomed it. I genuinely felt relieved not to have to deal with the inconvenience of a bleed. I thought this was progress, that modern medicine had given me a way to bypass something messy, something that seemed more of a hindrance than a gift.

I didn’t realise then what was being taken from me. I didn’t understand that by shutting down my cycle, I was severing a sacred connection, to my body, to nature, and to the deep well of feminine wisdom within me. I didn’t see that my menstrual cycle was more than a biological function; it was a rhythm, a compass, a language that tied me to the earth and to the mysteries of life itself.

It wasn’t until nearly a year after the birth of my son that I experienced a natural menstrual cycle again. For the first time in years, I bled without the interference of artificial hormones. And as my body remembered its ancient rhythm, something within me began to awaken. I started to feel the ebb and flow of my energy more clearly. I noticed the subtle shifts in my emotions, my creativity, and my intuition throughout each month. I began to see how my cycle mirrored the cycles of the moon, the seasons, and even the phases of my own life.

I realised that my menstrual cycle was my own personal medicine wheel, my own set of inner seasons. There was a springtime within me, a phase of growth, curiosity, and renewal. There was a summer, a time of fullness, vitality, and creation. There was an autumn, a season of reflection, discernment, and letting go. And there was a winter, a sacred period of rest, release, and deep inner knowing. These phases weren’t inconveniences; they were teachers. They were invitations to live in harmony with my body’s natural rhythms, to honour my need for rest as much as my drive for action.

The reconnection to my cycle gave me a profound sense of belonging. I felt myself woven back into the fabric of nature, where everything moves in cycles of birth, death, and rebirth. I understood that my body’s wisdom was not separate from the wisdom of the earth; it was a reflection of it. My cycle became a bridge between the physical and the spiritual, between the seen and the unseen. Through my bleed, I felt more deeply connected to the spirit realm, to the mystery of creation, and to the ancient lineage of women who had walked this path before me.

I grieved the years I had spent disconnected from this sacred rhythm. It felt as though something precious had been stolen from me, the chance to know myself through the cycles of my own body. But that grief was also a gateway to healing. It taught me the importance of listening to my body, of trusting its wisdom, and of reclaiming what had been suppressed.

Now, I cherish my cycle as one of the most beautiful aspects of being a woman. It is a reminder that I am part of something much larger, a cosmic dance that links me to the moon, the tides, and the changing seasons. Each month, my body whispers ancient truths, guiding me to honour my inner world, to trust my intuition, and to find balance between doing and being.

Reclaiming my menstrual cycle has been a journey back home to myself. It has shown me that within my body lies a map of interconnectedness, to nature, to the spirit realm, and to the cycles of life. This connection is a source of power, wisdom, and deep belonging. It reminds me that I am not separate from the world; I am a living expression of its rhythms, its cycles, and its sacred mysteries. And that is a gift beyond measure.

The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Our menstrual cycles can be understood through four distinct phases, each corresponding to one of the feminine archetypes and the seasons of nature. By recognising and honouring these phases, we can align our lives with the natural rhythms of our bodies and cultivate a more compassionate and sustainable way of being.

The Maiden Phase: Follicular Phase (Spring)

Life Stage: Pre-ovulation

Season: Spring

Archetype: Maiden

Element: Air

The follicular phase begins after menstruation and typically lasts 7 to 10 days. This is a time of renewal and possibility. Estrogen levels rise, bringing an increase in energy, clarity, and motivation. Just as spring bursts forth with new life, this phase invites us to embrace curiosity, exploration, and creative potential.

The Maiden energy encourages us to take on new projects, set intentions, and pursue goals with a sense of playfulness and excitement. During this phase, we are naturally inclined toward brainstorming, planning, and social engagement. It’s a time to dream, to envision, and to explore the paths that call to us.

Honouring the Maiden Phase:

• Engage in creative activities or start new projects.

• Plan social events or collaborate with others.

• Explore new ideas, skills, or opportunities with an open mind.

The Mother Phase: Ovulation Phase (Summer)

Life Stage: Ovulation

Season: Summer

Archetype: Mother

Element: Earth

The ovulation phase is the peak of the menstrual cycle, typically lasting 3 to 4 days. Hormones like estrogen and testosterone are at their highest, fostering feelings of vitality, confidence, and connection. This is a time of creation, fertility, and outward expression — the fullness of summer embodied.

The Mother energy invites us to nurture our relationships, our work, and ourselves. We are primed for connection, collaboration, and giving of our time and energy. This phase encourages us to celebrate the life we are building, to engage fully with the world around us, and to bring our creative ideas to fruition.

Honouring the Mother Phase:

• Focus on collaborative work, networking, or relationship-building.

• Practice self-care through nourishing, grounding activities.

• Celebrate milestones and express gratitude for your growth and achievements.

The Wise Woman Phase: Luteal Phase (Autumn)

Life Stage: Pre-menstruation

Season: Autumn

Archetype: Wise Woman

Element: Water

The luteal phase lasts about 10 to 14 days and is marked by a gradual decline in estrogen and a rise in progesterone. This phase encourages introspection, reflection, and discernment — much like the autumn season, when the world begins to slow down and prepare for rest.

The Wise Woman energy invites us to turn inward, to assess what is serving us and what needs to be released. We may feel a heightened sensitivity and awareness during this time. It’s a phase for self-care, setting boundaries, and listening to our intuition. The Wise Woman teaches us to honour our need for rest, solitude, and honest reflection.

Honouring the Wise Woman Phase:

• Engage in journaling or reflective writing to process emotions and experiences.

• Prioritise self-care and rest.

• Declutter physical, mental, or emotional spaces to prepare for a new cycle.

The Elder Phase: Menstruation (Winter)

Life Stage: Menstruation

Season: Winter

Archetype: Elder/Wise Woman Elder

Element: Fire

The menstrual phase typically lasts 3 to 7 days and marks a time of release, surrender, and renewal. Just as winter invites the earth into a period of stillness and rest, menstruation calls us to slow down, conserve energy, and honour the wisdom of our bodies.

The Elder energy embodies deep insight, acceptance, and the power of letting go. This is a time to retreat, reflect, and listen closely to the whispers of our inner knowing. The bleeding process is not just a physical release but a symbolic shedding an opportunity to let go of what no longer serves us, making space for new growth.

Honouring the Elder Phase:

• Allow yourself to rest and engage in gentle, nurturing practices.

• Meditate, reflect, or engage in rituals of release and renewal.

• Trust the process of letting go, knowing that it is essential for transformation.

Reclaiming the Cyclical Nature of the Feminine

Our menstrual cycles are a microcosm of the larger cycles of life. They remind us that there are times for action and times for rest, moments for outward expression and moments for inner reflection. By aligning with these phases, we reclaim a sense of balance and honour the wisdom that flows through our bodies.

Understanding these cycles helps us break free from the relentless demands of productivity and the conditioning that tells us we must always be “on.” Instead, we learn to work with our rhythms, to value rest as much as action, and to embrace the full spectrum of our experience. In doing so, we heal our relationship with the feminine and cultivate a deeper sense of wholeness within ourselves.

By weaving the archetypes, the seasons, the elements, and our menstrual cycles together, we create a rich tapestry of feminine wisdom. This understanding invites us to live in harmony with our bodies, our lives, and the earth. It allows us to reclaim what has been lost and to honour the cycles that sustain us, guiding us home to ourselves.

Practical Pathways to Reclaim the Feminine

Reclaiming the feminine is an active, ongoing journey, one that calls for both inner reflection and outward expression. This path asks us to remember what has been suppressed, to reconnect with the wisdom of our bodies, and to cultivate supportive, nurturing communities. Here are practical pathways to help you explore and embrace the feminine within yourself and the world around you.

Integration Prompts for Self-Inquiry

Journaling is a powerful way to uncover hidden truths and reconnect with suppressed parts of yourself. These prompts are designed to deepen your exploration of the feminine:

1. “What aspects of the feminine have I suppressed, and why?”

Reflect on the qualities like intuition, creativity, nurturance, and emotional expression. Were these parts of you dismissed or devalued by others? How can you begin to welcome them back?

2. “Which phase of the feminine (Maiden, Mother, Wise Woman, or Crone) am I most drawn to right now, and what does it offer me?”

Explore what this archetype is teaching you about your current life phase. How can you embody its gifts and wisdom more fully?

3. “How has my relationship with my body and my menstrual cycle been shaped by societal expectations, and what would it look like to reclaim this relationship?”

Consider how you might reconnect with your cycle, seeing it as a source of wisdom and empowerment.

4. “In what ways do I feel my worth is tied to productivity or appearance? How can I challenge these beliefs?”

Reflect on how capitalism and patriarchy may have influenced your self-image. What steps can you take to define your worth on your own terms?

5. “How can I honour the wisdom of the Wise Woman within me, regardless of my age or life stage?”

Invite the perspective of the elder, the part of you that carries deep wisdom and perspective, to guide you in your current challenges.

Creative Practices to Reconnect with the Feminine Spirit

Creativity is a direct channel to the feminine spirit, a way to express, explore, and reclaim the parts of yourself that yearn to be seen.

• Painting and Drawing: Allow yourself to create without judgment or a specific goal. Use colours and forms to express your emotions intuitively.

• Writing Poetry or Stories: Write from the heart, letting your intuition guide the words. Explore themes of transformation, cycles, and the feminine journey.

• Crafting: Engage in tactile, hands-on projects like knitting, weaving, or pottery. The act of creating with your hands can be grounding and meditative.

• Photography and Collage: Capture images that evoke the essence of the feminine or create vision boards that celebrate the archetypes and qualities you want to embody.

Rituals to Honour Each Phase of the Feminine

Rituals anchor us in the present and help us honour the deeper cycles of our lives. Here are some simple ceremonies to celebrate the different phases of the feminine:

• For the Maiden:

Light a candle and journal about your dreams, desires, and the new beginnings you want to invite. Let yourself play, explore, and be curious, celebrating the energy of potential.

• For the Mother:

Plant seeds or tend to a garden, symbolising the nurturing and growth you are cultivating in your life. Reflect on what you are creating, whether it’s a project, a relationship, or an idea.

• For the Wise Woman:

Sit in quiet contemplation or meditation. Reflect on the lessons you have learned and the wisdom you now carry. Write a letter to your younger self or offer guidance to others who are seeking clarity.

• For the Crone/Elder:

Light a black or deep purple candle and reflect on what you need to release or surrender. Honour the power of endings and the grace of letting go. Acknowledge the beauty of your evolving legacy and the wisdom you wish to pass on.

Community-Building Exercises and Sisterhood Circles

Reclaiming the feminine is not a solitary act. Healing happens most profoundly in the presence of others who witness, support, and celebrate your journey. Cultivating sisterhood and connecting with wisdom keepers can be deeply restorative and empowering.

• Women’s Circles:

Join or create a women’s circle where stories, experiences, and wisdom are shared without judgment. These circles can be spaces of deep listening, ritual, and mutual support. Gather regularly to honour the cycles of the moon, the seasons, or personal milestones. You may also be lucky enough to be near to (or lead!) other women’s events like ecstatic dance, women’s retreats, or workshops focused on creativity, embodiment, and healing. These spaces create safety and freedom to explore the depths of the feminine without the constraints of societal expectations.

• Mentorship and Eldership:

Seek out wise women and elders in your community or online who embody the feminine wisdom you wish to cultivate. Listen to their stories, honour their guidance, and reflect on how their insights can illuminate your path.

• Creative Gatherings:

Organise creative meetups where women come together to paint, write, dance, or craft. These gatherings can blend playfulness and creativity, fostering connection and joy.

• Online Communities:

If in-person connection is difficult, find online groups or forums dedicated to reclaiming the feminine. Virtual spaces can be powerful for sharing resources, experiences, and encouragement.

Reclaiming the Feminine: A Loving Invitation

The journey of reclaiming the sacred feminine is one of love, remembrance, and connection. It is a call to honour the wisdom that lives within you, the intuitive, cyclical, and creative rhythms that align with the natural world. It is a path that invites you to step into balance, wholeness, and authenticity, not just for yourself but for the healing of the collective.

This wisdom has never left you. It’s in your breath, your heartbeat, your connection to the seasons, and the quiet whispers of your inner knowing. It’s in the sacred cycles of the moon, the earth, and your own body. Reclaiming it is an act of self-love, of nurturing the parts of you that yearn to rest, create, and simply be.

As we reflect on the cycles that guide and sustain us, the turning of the seasons, the rise and fall of our energy, the rhythm of creation itself, we find an ancient wisdom that holds the key to balance and alignment. These cycles remind us that life is not a linear race but a spiral journey, one that invites us to pause, reflect, and realign with purpose.

With love and reverence,

Rosie

This artwork is by the phenomenal photographer Natalie Karpushenko whose work focuses on the feminine body in relationship with mother nature.