WOMEN'S HEALTH BLOG SERIES: In TCM all things, even our biological processes come back to the balance of ☯️yin and yang☯️. Continue reading to learn more.
In fact, a woman's cycle is a perfect example of the interconnected and interchanging nature of yin and yang’s energies within the body.
YIN ENERGY is cooling, moistening and nourishing, and correlates to the first part of the cycle, beginning after menstruation.
During this time, yin builds in the body, and estrogen is the main hormone responsible for building up the endometrial lining and creating a nice cozy home for a maturing egg.
To balance this stage in the body, make sure and get plenty of sleep, avoid vigorous activity and opt for things like yoga or tai chi. Implement yin nourishing foods such as dark leafy greens, seaweeds, sweet potatoes, kidney beans, sesame seeds, and small amounts of grass fed meat.
When yin reaches its peak, a mature follicle signals the brain to release hormones related to ovulation, and this marks the transition into the yang phase of the cycle.
YANG ENERGY is warming, dynamic, and active compared to yin, and is the motivating force behind ovulation and fertilization.
During this time, yang rises, ensuring the released egg has a clear, uninhibited journey to the uterus. Progesterone is also released at this time, causing a rise in body temperature to support implantation and early development of the fertilized egg.
To balance this stage, try incorporating warming foods and spices such as ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, mustard greens, garlic, and maca.
Avoid cold, raw foods such as salad, and cut back on dairy and heavy, greasy foods. Keep the low abdomen and lower back warm.
Just like aligning ourselves with nature to optimize our health, supporting yin and yang phases during a menstrual cycle can also optimize fertility!
To find out more how to optimize your cycle using TCM principles- book a session with Mallory for an in-depth and comprehensive treatment for exactly what your body needs!
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