Scrap Booking Your Cycle: What I Needed to Know
Hey everyone! It’s Kelsey again, here to talk about how living out the Creighton Model includes a little something I call “cycle scrapbooking.” (If you haven’t read about how I got started on my Creighton journey, be sure to check it out here.)
When I first began practicing the Creighton Model, the paper chart that is updated daily with various stamps and written notes seemed clunky. Don’t get me wrong, I was totally onboard with Creighton and appreciated the insight I had into my cycle and body, but having to drag along my chart and supplies every time I traveled was awkward. I lacked appreciation and attachment to my paper chart, and the consistency in which I was recording my observations was irregular. However, it was these three realizations that helped me realize that my chart plays a central role in practicing Creighton and take it a little more seriously.
First and foremost, the more I learned about my chart and what my observations meant, the more dedicated I became to updating my chart. As more cycles passed and more cycles were charted, I was able to have a clearer picture of what my cycle was regularly like, and even accurately predict things before they happened. Let me tell you ladies, as someone who’s period arrives anywhere from 29 to 32 days into my cycle, I appreciate my chart giving me insight on the actual day I will be starting!
Second, charting with Creighton gave insight into other physical and emotional symptoms I have during my cycle. Before, I just knew that I was teary “near the end of my cycle.” Because of charting I can now clearly explain not only why this is, but when exactly I can expect it to start and end based on when I ovulated. Charting truly helped me have a sense of understanding of my own body, and have a sense of peace and acceptance for the ups and downs that I naturally experience.
Finally, I began to see charting as a type of scrap booking. Essentially, you’re using stickers, other visual signs, and short notes to detail what is happening with your cycle and overall health. Like a scrapbook that gives you the opportunity to reflect on a certain time of your life and consider where you want to go next, your chart of your cycle allows you and your husband to see how your body has changed, or stayed the same, in the last six months. It spurs you on to actively discuss what you’d like the next chart to look like. What a wonderful way to care for your fertility and marriage!
If you’re reading this and have no idea what charting is, or how it plays into the Creighton Model, check out the information on the Divine Mercy FertilityCare page. If you’re considering practicing the Creighton Model but still have general questions about charting, leave them in the comments below! Your question is probably one that we have all asked ourselves, too!