Menstrual Cycle | Yin into Yang

The Yin and Yang of the Menstrual Cycle ☯️

In TCM we can view the cycle of hormones during the menstrual cycle as the ever-changing balance between Yin and Yang. You could think of it as Yin = Oestrogen, Yang = Progesterone. The fundamentals of Yin and Yang being that they are always in a state of constant change and balance, mutually consuming, controlling, and transforming into one another. In TCM, all menstrual irregularities come down to the improper balance of either Yin, Yang, Qi or Blood, depending on varying symptoms.

🩸 Blood Phase | The Period
Yang within Yin. The Yin is the physical substance, blood, and the Yang is the movement of it.

🌘 Yin Phase | Follicular
After the bleed comes a focus on replenishing blood and nurturing yin.

🌞 Yang Phase | Ovulation
As Yin peaks it transforms into Yang - a burst of energy at ovulation. You may feel more active, social, sexy, transformed.

✨ Qi Phase | Luteal
Focus is on building and conserving Yang and Qi to move smoothly into the Blood Phase and start all over again!

To make this easier to follow, I have created a Traditional Chinese Medicine inspired desk calendar, to sync with your cycle. It offers advice on nutrition, lifestyle and exercise for each phase of your cycle. Available to buy here.