Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS, is a common issue experienced by many women. Symptoms such as mood swings, breast tenderness, headaches, bloating, and fatigue can make the days leading up to menstruation challenging. In Chinese Medicine, PMS is viewed as an imbalance in the body’s Qi and Blood, which can be caused by a variety of factors.
One of the main factors that can lead to PMS is ignoring the rest period of the menstrual cycle. The pathologization of the menstrual cycle is also a common issue in modern society. Women are often told that the ebb and flow of the menstrual cycle is somehow wrong, and that they should strive to be the same throughout the month. However, this ignores the natural shifts in how women feel both emotionally and physically throughout the cycle.
When we ignore the cyclical nature of women and the menstrual cycle and strive to live in a perpetual state of growth and productivity, it’s another way in which we become disconnected from nature and our bodies. When we view the premenstrual and menstruating phases as wrong, we miss the opportunity in each cycle to honour our need for more stillness, more time spent alone, reflection, introspection and deep nourishment.
Living in Alignment with the Seasons
Living in alignment with the seasons of the menstrual cycle can play a significant role in reducing PMS symptoms. Just as the seasons of the year have their own unique qualities, so do the phases of the menstrual cycle. The bleeding phase, which is the beginning of the cycle, is associated with winter. This is a time of rest, introspection, and nourishment. It’s essential to honour this time by taking extended rest, nourishing the body with warm, cooked foods, and spending time in solitude.
The Follicular & Ovulatory Phases
The follicular phase, which follows the bleeding phase, is associated with spring. This is a time of new beginnings and growth, and it’s a great time to set intentions and make plans for the month ahead. The ovulatory phase, which is associated with summer, is a time of increased energy and creativity. This is a great time to socialize, connect with others, and take on new challenges.
The Luteal Phase
The luteal phase, which precedes the bleeding phase, is associated with autumn. This is a time of transition and preparation for the rest phase. It’s essential to honour this time by slowing down, focusing on self-care, and preparing for the rest period ahead. This is also the time of the cycle where we are more aware fo the things that are no longer serving us and need to be let go so we don’t bring them into the next cycle.
Ignoring the rest period of the menstrual cycle can lead to depletion of Qi and Blood, which can cause PMS symptoms. Honouring the bleeding phase is especially important as it sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. By taking extended rest, nourishing the body with warm, cooked foods, and spending time in solitude, we can support the body’s natural healing process and reduce PMS symptoms.
PMS is a common issue experienced by many women. Through the lens of Chinese Medicine, it is viewed as an imbalance in the body’s Qi and Blood. Living in alignment with the seasons of the menstrual cycle and honouring the rest period is essential for reducing PMS symptoms. By shifting our perspective to honour the natural ebb and flow of the menstrual cycle, we can reduce the pathologisation of the menstrual cycle and reconnect with our bodies and nature.
