According to Chinese Medicine, there are unique relationships between the organs and fluids associated with our monthly bleed.
Chinese Medicine differs from Western medicine in that the organs do not only carry out their functions on a physiological level, but also on an energetic level. Essentially, this means that each organ has an essence or energy that is particularly unique, almost like a personality. The fluids of the body also hold a vibration. The interplay of these frequencies makes an impact on the whole of the being. Let’s chat a little bit about the Chinese Medicine view points that create a full picture of these menstrual relations.
The Uterus (Bao Gong)
TCM views the Uterus as inclusive of other reproductive organs such as fallopian tubes, ovaries and the cervix. Its function is to store and discharge the menstrual Blood, thicken the endometrium, start ovulation, store the Kidney Essence, receive the sperm and hold and nourish the fetus until birth.
Heart Uterus (Bao Mai) Vessel
According to Chinese Medicine, the heart and uterus are linked by the Bai Mao channel or Uterus Vessel. Each month, the heart blood descends to the uterus and menstruation is initiated. Both the Heart and the Uterus are sensitive organs, thus disharmonies in the heart create disharmonies in the uterus, whether those are physical, spiritual or emotional. It is believed that harmonizing the emotions of the heart, harmonizes the uterus.
Blood & Essence
In Chinese Medicine, the blood and essence are closely related. Blood anchors the Shen, circulates essential nutrients, and Qi, as well as carries emotions and memories. Blood is the most abundant yin fluid and to have abundant Qi, we must have abundant blood. Essence is an energetic vital substance directly linked to vitality. Essence or Jing is stored in the kidneys. While we can build qi and blood, Jing is a limited resource in the body. Taking care of our blood means we are taking care of our essence which translated to nourishing our vitality. This is beneficial for our own health, the health of our families and the health of our future generations.
Pelvic Floor and Vocal Cord Connection (a bit of a New Age Concept, but rather appropriate)
The diaphragms of the throat include the pelvic floor, the respiratory diaphragm and the vocal folds. Each of these diaphragms regulates pressure within the thorax. Pressure is impacted by the input and output of breath as well as the exertions from the bladder and bowel. Research shows that there is a direct fascial link between the pelvic floor and the vocal cords. When one of the diaphragms is not functioning optimally, the others also struggle. Tightness in one area can lead to weakness in another due to the fascial pull. But, it doesn’t stop there, the emotional implications of not using our voice or not using our voice with integrity or kindness can also severely impact the energy.
In summary, the biological process of menstruation is natural and occurs at regular intervals without pain and symptoms. The very nature of the Uterus is sensitive and is seriously impacted by so much of what is happening elsewhere in the body and in the spiritual/emotional body. When I first applied to acupuncture school, Sandy Lillie, the president of the school said to me that acupuncture “brings people closer to themselves.” Over the years, as I’ve spent more and more time with this sentiment, with people and their uteruses, I’ve found that those who are indeed closest to themselves have far fewer complaints than those who struggle inside themselves.
Having healthy menstruation means having a healthy relationship with yourself and your body.
