Sacred Spaces: The Ancient Tradition of Menstrual Retreat

Throughout history, many cultures viewed menstruation as a sacred time. Women would step back from daily responsibilities and enter a time of rest, reflection, and renewal. This was not seen as weakened state, but as powerful opening to deeper wisdom.

Honoring the Feminine Cycle

In ancient traditions, menstrual blood was considered holy, carrying the essence of life itself. Communities recognized that when a woman was bleeding, her energy turned inward, and her connection to intuition and spirit was heightened.

To honor this, women were often given space away from their usual duties. They entered special dwellings, sometimes called “moon lodges” or “red tents”, where they could rest, dream, and receive care from others.

A Time of Menstrual Support and Care

During these retreats, women were relieved of chores, work, and family demands. They were waited on, offered nourishing foods, and supported by younger or non-bleeding members of the community. This time was seen as essential for the health of the woman, the family, and the larger tribe.

Menstruation was understood as a monthly cleansing, not only of the body but also of energy and emotion. By honoring it, women returned to their communities renewed, bringing fresh insight and strength.

The Role of Intuition and Vision

Many traditions held that women’s visions and dreams during menstruation carried guidance for the whole community. In this way, the menstrual cycle was not only personal but also collective. It was a source of wisdom that benefited everyone.

Remembering This Wisdom Today

While most of us no longer live in cultures that provide moon lodges or red tents, the essence of these traditions can be carried into modern life. You may not be able to step away from all responsibilities, but you can create small rituals of retreat:

• Light a candle and make space for quiet reflection.

• Ask for support from loved ones when you need rest.

• Prepare nourishing meals in advance so you can relax more fully.

• Create a personal “moon space” in your home where you can honor your cycle.

A Return to Reverence

The menstrual cycle is not only about the body. It is a spiritual rhythm that has been honored for thousands of years. By remembering these traditions, you reclaim menstruation as sacred. You step back into a lineage of women who honored their cycles as gateways to wisdom, creativity, and renewal.

Reflection for You: If you could create your own version of a moon lodge today, what would it look like?

Check out my FREE Creating Your Own Moon Lodge at Home PDF Download