Under patriarchy, menstruation is a punishment rather than a gift.

“The first measure of time was menstrual time, and from this women developed lunar calendars and ancient astrology. We do feel the lunar tides in our bodies, and the water in our bodies “sees” the moon as the crystalline structures of water alter or resonate with the moon passing overhead.

Women unconditioned by pejorative patriarchal taboos against the menstrual cycle were surely in fine tune with all its phases. They knew, in their bodies and dreams, the possibilities of the moon. To know something is to be it. We neglect her rights at our cost! We no longer contain our cycle; under patriarchy we are chained to it, in fear, shame, annoyance—and under constant threat of unwanted pregnancy.


Under patriarchy, menstruation is a punishment rather than a gift. Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and other Father God religions trace the evil of women to menstruation.” –Monica Sjoo & Barbara Mor, The Great Cosmic Mother






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