According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, 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 the 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 Traditional Chinese Medicine Philosophy about the monthly courses. 

Menstruation Phase: Winter

• • Days 1-4

  • Hormones drop

  • Uterus sheds its lining

  • Uterus cleanses old blood

 Traditional 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 the egg

  • Endometrium thickens

Traditional 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

  • An egg is released from the ovary

  • Cervix softens

  • Cervical mucus is the consistency of egg whites

Traditional 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 

Traditional 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.

As we observe both the scientific and energetic evolution over the course of the monthly bleed, it seems clear that adjusting lifestyle to the body’s needs (rather than body to life) is the key to optimal health and well-being. When we put our beautiful body first, we can be in a peak state for the life we choose. 

Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider.  This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease.  That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options.  If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com.