The best massage for each phase of your menstrual cycle

Ever wondered why some massages leave you feeling completely energised, while others make you want to melt into your sofa? Destiny Joelivia, a menstrual cycle health coach (and a bit of an Urban massage enthusiast), says it might have something to do with where you are in your menstrual cycle.

First things first – what's a menstrual cycle health coach?

Destiny explains it simply: "“A menstrual cycle health coach is someone who bridges the gap between a health professional – so a GP – and you as an individual.

"You might not have the language to go to your GP and express your concerns or maybe you don't know what questions to actually ask, and so a menstrual cycle health coach can actually empower you and equip you with the language and also the understanding of your cycle – not just your period but the entire month and how that affects your mood, your sleep, your food and your appetite.”

Menstrual coaching is becoming more popular for a reason. Research shows that getting to know your cycle can help manage symptoms, understand mood fluctuations and even boost overall wellbeing.

Phase 1: Menstrual – soothe and comfort

At the start of your cycle when you have your period, Destiny recommends something gentle and relaxing:

“Going into your period and coming out of it, you want soothing, calming massages. They really help ease any discomfort and slow things down.”

One study showed that massages using lavender essential oil (like our de-stress treatment) are particularly helpful when it comes to easing period cramps.

Phase 2: Follicular – rejuvenate and revitalise

Right after your period, you might notice an energy boost. Destiny says this the perfect time for an energising massage:

“I find energising massages really helpful in picking up my energy, especially when I’m feeling sluggish after my period.”

During this phase, your body naturally has higher energy levels. Stimulating massages like our energising massage can boost circulation and help you feel even more springy.

Phase 3: Ovulatory – balance and energise

Around ovulation, your energy levels reach their peak and your mood often feels a bit brighter. This is largely thanks to a surge in oestrogen and luteinising hormone, which help trigger ovulation and are known to give you more energy, confidence and mental clarity. You might find you're up for more intense workouts which makes it the perfect time for recovery-focused massages like deep tissue, sports massage and assisted stretching.

Phase 4: Luteal – energise then relax

In the second half of your cycle, known as the luteal phase, your energy naturally dips as your body prepares for your period. This is because oestrogen levels drop and progesterone rises – a shift that can leave you feeling tired, foggy or just not quite yourself.

Destiny says massages are especially helpful during this time:

“In the luteal phase, your metabolism and your energy is really slow, and I think having that pick-up is really helpful. But then going into your period, you kind of want that soothing, calming massage.”

This is a good time to start with something energising – like assisted stretching or an invigorating full-body massage – before easing into more calming treatments as your period approaches. Research shows that techniques like myofascial release and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce fatigue, ease muscle tension and improve sleep in this phase.

As Destiny puts it, this part of your cycle is a chance to slow down a little and tune in to what your body really needs.

Creating the perfect environment

Destiny’s favourite thing about home massages is being able to tailor the experience to the season.

“In summer I love having massages under my kitchen skylight with the doors open. Hearing birds singing and feeling the breeze is just lovely.”

The same applies when you just don't have the energy to leave home for a treatment, too. The beauty of Urban is you can book the spa to you, and tailor the whole experience to what you need that day. And if you find yourself worrying about common concerns like period bloat – our guide to common treatment anxieties can help to put your mind at rest.

To find out more about Destiny's menstrual coaching events and services, check out her Instagram.