sadhanaWhen we think of hormones, we generally think of someone having an emotional reaction — typically a woman. Or someone who is unable to conceive, has PCOD, or other period issues. Or we think of gym bros trying to bulk up.
But that’s not what hormones are.
Hormones are chemical messengers that coordinate different functions in your body. And it’s not just about reproduction either. Many glands, organs, and tissues make and release hormones to signal your body what to do and when to do it.
Scientists have identified over 50 hormones in our bodies — and they affect everything from:
- Metabolism
- Growth and development
- Sexual function
- Reproduction
- Sleep-wake cycle
- Mood and emotional regulation
Because hormones are incredibly powerful — even in small doses — when they go even slightly out of balance, we feel it massively in our bodies and brains. Some hormones affect our mood directly, and others create a domino effect that throws our system off track.
Reading about hormone health is one thing… but could it actually be affecting you right now?
Discover the sneaky signs your hormones might be out of balance (and what to do next) in this guide.
If you’re a woman, there are three primary hormones that fluctuate through your monthly cycle, and two additional hormones that support your overall well-being.
The 3 main hormones that shape your monthly rhythm are:
- Estrogen — regulates ovulation and helps you feel clear, social, and motivated when balanced.
- Testosterone — responsible for the rise in libido and confidence around ovulation.
- Progesterone — supports the second half of the cycle and prepares the uterus for pregnancy; also has a calming effect when in balance.
The 2 supporting hormones are:
- Thyroid hormones — play a critical role in energy levels and menstrual regularity. When imbalanced, they can cause missed periods, heavy bleeding, or long gaps between cycles.
- Insulin — helps regulate blood sugar. Chronically high insulin (usually due to stress, poor sleep, or diet) can lead to PCOD-like symptoms, irregular periods, and difficulty with ovulation.
These 5 hormones don’t just govern your menstrual cycle — they influence how you eat, sleep, focus, and feel.
When they’re out of sync, you may experience symptoms like:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Irritability or mood swings
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Cravings or energy crashes
These symptoms often feel most intense in the days before your period, but they can also show up throughout the cycle when your body is struggling to keep up.
So the next time you experience any of these symptoms, know this: you are not broken.
Your hormones may just be dysregulated — and they’re asking for your help.
If it were your best friend, wouldn’t you help her?
Your symptoms are not your personality.
And there is something you can do about it.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward understanding your hormones, I invite you to download my free guide: “5 Common and 5 Uncommon Signs That Your Hormones Are Out of Balance.”
This PDF will help you recognize which symptoms are calling for your attention — and where to begin.
Once you’ve read through it, send me a message at @empowered.periods and let me know what symptoms resonate with you — or any questions you might have.
Let’s take care of your hormones together.