Menstruation and Ayurveda: Menstruation, a natural process of life, has unfortunately been unfairly and unjustly tabooed for decades. However, recent attempts to alleviate this taboo have been made, emphasizing the need for preventive healthcare. Even though the time when this natural cycle shall be seen as genuinely natural and not something to hide may still be far away, steps are being taken towards a more inclusive understanding.
The human body is a wondrous work of balancing acts, something that the ancient science of Ayurveda understands. Ayurveda saw menstruation as not an obstruction, but an opportunity. It teaches us to respect this monthly cycle and thus leads to easier and painless menstruation.
As technology advanced and physical workload decreased, many women experienced irregularities and even extreme pain undergoing menstruation. Delving into Ayurveda, one may find solutions for this inevitable pain.
Listed below are some tips that may make menstruation easier and more comfortable:
Taking adequate Rest
Even though several of our ancient traditions are ridiculed by many, some of these actually have a firm scientific basis. The age-old tradition of not watering your head during menstruation stems from the scientific fact that during this time, the body temperature naturally rises by one to two degrees, and the conflicting temperature of the water and the body may result in discomfort and even mild fevers.
Ayurveda recognizes this time as more vulnerable since many women experience pain during menstruation. To combat this condition, the best solution is adequate rest. This is actually why in ancient times women on their periods were kept away from doing any physical work, which later, of course, took the discriminatory discourse that women must be secluded from society during this time as they are ‘impure’.
Much like the traditions that have been twisted and turned according to the patriarch dogmatic society, so have these myths regarding menstruation. Ayurveda suggests adequate rest during this time and a lesser physical burden which would ease the pain making it a trifle easier.
Proper Diet
It is the firm belief of many that certain food items should not be consumed by a menstruating woman and once again, many of these are based on science.
Blood is rich in iron, and thus it is advised to refrain from having iron-rich fruits such as bananas, etc. during menstruation as this can result in a heavier flow and thus stomach pain and cramps.
Ayurveda recommends a diet based on Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. A well-balanced, lighter diet for an easier menstrual cycle. Warm, liquid dishes with smooth textures such as soups and purees are recommended for a balanced vata which becomes the main factor for an easier flow. Some natural herbs, which also improve metabolism can also aid in this process. Spicy food is best avoided during this course.
Ayurveda recommends going to sleep at a reasonable hour after allowing the food to be digested properly. Many of the above-mentioned tips are useful even without menstruation as a light, a balanced diet will lead to an overall improvement in health and will naturally lead to an easier menstrual cycle.
Relaxation
Typical premenstrual syndromes such as irritation, anxiety, mood swings, etc can be overcome with a peaceful mind. For this, Ayurveda recommends meditation and breathing exercises. Although this is also recommended otherwise, such kinds of exercises, especially during the monthly cycle, can help a person to feel calmer and reduce anxiety and stress.
A proper diet and sleep regime coupled with meditation can work wonders in relieving the pain that comes with the menstrual cycle. Ayurveda nurtures the heart or the Sadhaka Pitta which is helpful in dealing with emotional trauma.
Ayurveda is an act of self-care, and the above-mentioned methods can significantly help with menstrual pain and irregularity of the cycle, aligning with the principles of preventive healthcare. Menstruation, a natural and life-giving process, should not lead to ostracization of women. Despite human advancements, our mentality, sadly, predates even the Vedic era, viewing menstruation as an impurity.
Ayurveda instills balance into one’s life to help deal with the physical and mental toll that menstruation may take on some women, emphasizing preventive healthcare. A synchronized amalgamation of diet, rest, and relaxation works wonders for the human body. Additionally, the application of hot water bags can considerably relieve menstrual cramps. Ayurveda also advocates eating two tablespoons of flax seeds during your period due to their hormone-balancing lignans and phytoestrogens, offering preventive measures against menstrual pain.
These ayurvedic cures thus can help immensely with menstrual pain and also have no negative side effects, which is always a bonus. Check out our website for preventive healthcare measures and tips and get your consultation from our experts. Happy Period!
What should we eat during periods in Ayurveda?
It recommends warm, mushy foods, cooked in ghee and spices. Pureed soups, cooked fruits, hot rice pudding, and nourishing beverages are ideal. Be sure to use healthy fats in cooking such as ghee, flaxseed, or hempseed oil.
Is Ashwagandha good for periods?
Ashwagandha reduces inflammation, oxidative stress, and anxiety and improves sleep, memory, energy, and libido. It can also reduce heavy bleeding during your period and eliminate uterine fibroids with long-term use.
Should we exercise during periods?
Avoid physical exertion – Travelling, walking, and workouts increase the Vata Dosha (One of the three basic elements of the body according to Ayurveda) in the body which is already predominant in the body during the menses. Complete rest is mandatory to avoid vitiation of Vata Dosha.
Can I drink milk during my period?
Dairy is a major part of a well-balanced diet, but eating too much cheese or consuming too many milk-based products on your period can cause your period cramps to worsen.
What drinks to avoid during menstruation?
Avoid drinks like coffee, energy drinks, etc as they can cause headaches and constipation