Understanding the menstrual cycle from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Traditional Chinese Medicine views menstruation as amonthly reflection of the energetic balanceof the female body. It is not limited to reproduction: the cycle shows how theQi (vital energy), theBlood (Xue)and the harmony between the systems ofLiver, Spleen, and Kidney.

Cuando el Qi fluye libremente y la Sangre está bien nutrida, el ciclo suele ser regular, poco doloroso y estable emocionalmente. Cuando hay estancamiento, frío interno, debilidad o sobrecarga emocional, el cuerpo lo expresa a través del ciclo.

The three energetic axes of the cycle

The 4 phases of the cycle viewed from TCM

1) Menstruation · Blood Movement

The body eliminates the Blood that has already fulfilled its function.

Here the uterus needsheat and restfor the flow to be free.

Recommended care

• Heat in the abdomen

• Warm infusions (ginger, cinnamon)

• Less physical activity

• Sleep more

If there is pain, TCM often interprets it ascold or stagnation.

2) Postmenstruation · Blood Reconstruction

The body begins toreplenish the Bloodlost. It is a phase of nourishment.

Recommended care

• Good nutrition

• Rest

• Warm and nutritious foods

• Avoid excessive activity

Here theSpleen.

3) Ovulation · Expansion of Qi

Energy rises, there is greater mental clarity and available energy.

Recommended care

• Gentle body movement

• Creative activities

• Balanced social life

Here theLivermust allow the free flow of Qi.

4) Premenstrual · Descent of Qi

Energy begins to descend to prepare for menstruation.

If Qi does not descend well, the following appear:

• Irritability

• Bloating

• Breast pain

• Emotional tension

Recommended care

• Reduce demands

• Relaxing infusions (lemon balm, chamomile)

• Conscious breathing

The role of heat in menstrual health

For TCM, the uterusneeds heat.

Internal cold is a common cause of menstrual pain.

Avoid during the period:

• Cold drinks

• Walking barefoot

• Exposure to cold in the abdomen

Encourage:

• Hot water bottle

• Warm feet

• Warm food

The cycle as a tool for self-knowledge

Observing the cycle month by month allows recognition of:

• how energy is

• how emotions impact

• how the body responds to the rhythm of life

From this perspective, menstruation ceases to be a nuisance and becomesa clear message of the internal state of the body.

TCM invites you tolisten to the cycleas a guide to organize rest, nutrition, movement, and emotional care.