Hormones, Chinese Medicine and Menstruation!
In Chinese Medicine, menstruation is regarded as a vital component of women's health, reflecting the unique balance of Qi, Blood, and Yin. The harmony of these vital fluids indicates the health of the body. The menstrual cycle is considered a dynamic evolution influenced by the interplay of these essential fluids and energies. The menstrual cycle as well as the phases of life that a woman experiences such as onset of menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause are correlated with the Five Elements. The Five Elements are highly correlated with the seasons in nature and can, thus, be likened to the seasons within the body.
As a practitioner and a woman, I have found that understanding and accepting the seasonal nature of my client’s bodies and my own body has drastically changed my outlook on health. This idea of the body being a dynamic and continuously evolving organism is revolutionary. Our modern world encourages us to have schedules that include consistent eating, exercise, work, hobbies and socialization. Yet, the very nature of our monthly hormone cycle, scientifically suggests that our energy levels, dietary demands, social needs, availability for creative output and sexual desires will vary tremendously throughout a menstrual cycle and certainly a lifetime.
I wanted to briefly share a little bit of science and Chinese Philosophy about the monthly courses.
Menstruation Phase - Winter
Days 1-4
Hormones drop
Uterus sheds its lining
Uterus cleanses old blood
Chinese Medicine Philosophy
This is the peak of Yin.
Regulate the flow of blood and qi by eating easily digestible, protein rich foods like stews and soups. This helps in preventing both stagnation of blood (endometriosis) and excessive bleeding (depletion).
Conserve qi by resting, staying warm, performing gentle exercise, avoiding sex, avoiding heavy lifting, and hydrating well.
Follicular Phase - Spring
Days 5-11
FSH is secreted
Follicles develop
Estrogen is secreted from follicles
Activation of egg
Endometrium thickens
Chinese Medicine Philosophy
Yin becomes Yang.
Nourish blood and yin, strengthen lining and follicles by increasing proteins, leafy greens and foods that moisten.
Contain energy so curb your exercise to moderate exertion.
Ovulation Phase - Summer
Days 12-16
LH surges
Temperature dips then increases
Egg is released from ovary
Cervix softens
Cervical mucous is the consistency of egg whites
Chinese Medicine Philosophy
This is the peak of Yang.
Move qi and blood by eating pungent foods.
Strengthen Yang with vigorous exercise.
Create, Manifest & Express Yourself
Luteal Phase - Autumn
Days 17-28
Progesterone increases
Estrogen is high
Uterus lining thickens
Chinese Medicine Philosophy
Yang becomes Yin.
Boost Qi and Yang with vigorous or competitive exercise until day 26, eat lots of veggies to increase fiber, and increase hydration.