Menstruation is a natural part of a healthy woman’s life, signaling the monthly cycle of a body with balanced hormonal axes. Despite its normalcy, it’s often an uncomfortable experience for many of us, from intense lower abdominal and back pain to feelings of nausea or loose stools. There’s also the constant worry of unexpected leaks, which can happen at the most inconvenient times.
In Ayurveda, it is considered as Rituchakra owing to its cyclic nature like that of seasons. The menstrual fluid is called Artava and the woman going through this is called Rajaswala or Ritumati. As during other physiological processes in our body , Dosha get altered during this cycle, with Vata Dosha being prominent in the beginning, Pitta Dosha during the mid cycle and Kapha Dosha towards the end.
The beginning of the menstrual cycle or Rituchakra is marked by the first day of menstruation with normal to heavy flow accompanied by cramps in lower belly and back which later progresses to other symptoms as the Dosha fluctuates. Read on to know how these Doshas swing and what can you do about it to ease through!
1. Vata Dosha
- Prominent Phase: Beginning of the menstrual cycle (days of menstruation).
- Role: Governs movement, which includes the downward flow of menstrual blood (Apana Vayu, a subtype of Vata).
- Manifestations: Pain (cramps), dryness, and bloating are typical of Vata dominance during this phase.
- Support: Warm, grounding, and hydrating practices like oil massages, warm teas, and light, easy-to-digest foods help balance Vata.
Massage with Warm oil
Its an important therapeutic measure against the ailments of Vata Dosha. A simple massage with warm oil on your lower belly and back can help you alleviate some pain. Massage helps in relieving muscle tension and improve circulation. In Ayurveda, sesame oil is considered best for pacifying Vata Dosha, so you can use that. It is economical and also easily available!
Herbal teas for your rescue
Most women get this feeling of fullness and distension during their periods. If you also suffer from this feeling then you can surely get some relief by restricting meals which have the propensity to cause bloating like cruciferous vegetables, legumes etc. You can try herbal teas made of fennel seeds and carom seeds which is an excellent remedy for digestion and facilitating movement of Vata Dosha.
Nourishment is the key
Your cycle’s beginning is marked by elevation of Vata Dosha and thus there can be bloating and distension. To ease that you might want to take food that is easily digested and also supports your digestion. In old villages of India, many women advise to take warm Ghee (clarified butter) in wheat porridge as its nourishing and pacifies Vata thus brings you comfort in a bowl!
2. Pitta Dosha
- Prominent Phase: Mid-cycle (ovulation).
- Role: Manages transformation, including hormonal shifts and ovulation.
- Manifestations: Heat sensations, mood swings, or irritability might signal Pitta dominance,
- Support: Cooling and soothing practices like consuming coconut water, leafy greens, and avoiding spicy or fried foods help pacify Pitta.
Hydration to keep it cool
Focus on foods that have cooling properties, such as fresh fruits like melons, berries, cold milk or Ghee, and hydrating drinks like coconut water. You can also intake herbal teas like peppermint and chamomile. These help reduce inflammation and balance the heating nature of Pitta.
Yoga to move ahead
Engage in light physical activity, such as gentle yoga Relaxing poses like Balasana (Child’s Pose) and Savasana ( Corpse Pose). You can also add light walking. These activities help soothe the body, alleviate cramps, and promote emotional balance without overexerting Pitta energy.
Rest is Reassuring
Prioritize rest, relaxation, and self-care practices like Abhyanga (self-massage with coconut oil or sandalwood oil) to calm the body and mind. Including meditation and mindfulness may help to manage irritability and stress.
3. Kapha Dosha
- Prominent Phase: Post-ovulation to the end of the cycle (pre-menstrual phase).
- Role: Provides stability and builds tissue (replenishment after ovulation).
- Manifestations: Water retention, sluggishness, or emotional heaviness may indicate Kapha dominance.
- Support: Stimulating and energizing practices like light exercise, warm spices like ginger and cinnamon, and avoiding heavy, oily foods help balance Kapha.
Movement to Energize
Incorporate light and stimulating physical activity like gentle yoga or brisk walking. Poses such as Virabhadrasana (Warrior pose) and Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog) can help energize the body, promote circulation, and release any stagnation without overtaxing Kapha’s natural heaviness.
Warm it up
To balance Kapha during your cycle, focus on hydrating with warm, light liquids that promote digestion, such as ginger tea, lemon water, or warm herbal infusions.
Rest to Rejuvenate
While rest is essential, avoid excessive sleep, which can aggravate Kapha’s lethargy. Focus on restorative practices like Abhyanga and mindfulness to calm the mind, manage any emotional heaviness, and allow the body to rejuvenate.
When to see a doctor
Since menstruation is a normal physiological process so no medical aid is required usually. However, if you tend to have incapacitating cramps or extreme nausea or discomfort then its better to get yourself checked for any underlying pathology.
Ayurveda has a bountiful of single herbs and formulations targeted for the gentle care every woman needs. Some of the most common herbs which are helpful are
- Shatavari
- Ashwagandha
- Fennel seeds
- Carrom seeds
- Turmeric etc.
Important: Always consult with your Ayurvedic physician before using any herbal or herbomineral products to ensure they’re right for you.
Conclusion
Ayurveda, an ancient science, has long advocated for simple yet effective lifestyle modifications to ease life’s journey. The menstrual cycle, like any natural, cyclical process, is a regular event in a healthy woman’s life. However, that doesn’t mean you have to endure discomfort or stay in bed due to this physiological occurrence. In today’s fast-paced world, where women are leading in all walks of life, nothing should stand in the way of your success and determination. By understanding your body and making mindful choices, you can navigate through this natural process with ease and confidence. Stay healthy, stay balanced, and take charge of your well-being.
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