Let's begin with the premise that perimenopause and menopause are natural processes that involve a physiological decline of Kidney-junning in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), not a disease or pathology. Actually, this time is honored and celebrated as a woman enters her Second Spring. While it may be hard to believe, many healthy women experience this transition without significant symptoms.
It is often the pre-existing deficiencies of being depleted, overworked, and undernourished that can lead to distressing symptoms requiring intervention.
The Role of Bao Mai Uterus Vessel in Menopause:
In TCM, women have an extra energy channel that our male counterparts don't have. This channel is called the Bao Mai or the Uterus Vessel. The Bao Mai, a meridian connecting the heart to the uterus, is crucial. It facilitates the flow of blood from the heart to nourish the womb. According to TCM literature, the HPO Axis connects the Bao Mai during perimenopause and menopause.
Herbal Formulas in TCM:
TCM often utilizes formulations like Liu Wei Di Huang Wan, containing various herbs with distinct functions, to address menopausal symptoms. (I recommend seeing your acupuncturist for these herbs because many counterfeit brands are making poor-quality products for sale and preying on women while they are searching for solutions)
Understanding Hot Flashes in TCM:
About 75% of women experience hot flashes during menopause, with a TCM connection to the Bao Mai. This vessel, linking the heart to the uterus, is sensitive to emotional stress and anxiety, impacting heart energy and uterus functioning.
Emotional Well-being and Menstrual Health:
The Bao Mai is a bridge between the heart and uterus in TCM theory. Emotional stress affects heart energy, leading to menstrual issues. The Yellow Emperor Classic emphasizes the impact of emotions on menstrual health, urging the regulation of emotions to prevent pathogenic problems.
Holistic Approaches in TCM:
TCM recommends acupuncture, breathwork, Qigong, and meditation to address emotional blockages and reopen channels. Despite the challenges of facing the shadows and traumas of the heart and womb, the rewards of self-inquiry and emotional resolution are truly freeing.
The Bao Mai Connection:
Stress, anxiety, and emotional upheavals impact the menstrual cycle through the Bao Mai. The channel's openness is crucial for the free flow of blood from the heart to the uterus, affecting gynecological processes.
Heart-Uterus Relationship in TCM:
TCM highlights the direct link between the heart and uterus through the Bao Mai channel. Stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma can lead to heart pathologies, impacting gynecological processes and fertility.
During our menstrual years, the energy from the heart flows downward to nourish the womb. During the post-menopausal years, the energy reverses, and the energy from the uterus flows upward to nourish the heart.
Managing Stress in TCM:
TCM provides solutions for stress and anxiety management through acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, diet, and lifestyle advice. Balancing the body is essential for optimal gynecological function during menopause.
It is my hope that understanding the intricate connections between the Bao Mai -heart and womb will help you explore ways to release some of the old thoughts, patterns, beliefs, and habits held in your heart and body so you can create a clear pathway into your second spring filled with ease and beauty.
Hugs and deep bows of gratitude to you and your practice,
Maria
🙏🏽
Would you like to learn more?
Join us on March 9th for a 2-hour online herbal and Qigong workshop that honors the beauty path of your second spring.
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