Menstrual Cycle: An Ayurvedic and Scientific Perspective

The Cycle as a Rhythm, Not a Problem

For too long, menstruation has been viewed as an inconvenience - or worse, a medical problem to suppress. But your cycle is not an error in design. It’s a monthly rhythm that carries deep intelligence about your body’s health and balance.

Ayurveda has always seen the menstrual cycle as a natural cleansing and renewal process, unique to women. Modern science now shows what Ayurveda has long taught: our hormones rise and fall across four distinct phases, shaping not just fertility, but mood, energy, digestion, and immunity.

The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

🌑 Menstrual Phase (days 1–5)

• Science: The uterine lining is shedding. Oestrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. Energy dips, the immune system is vulnerable.

• Ayurveda: This is a natural cleansing. Pitta (the dosha of transformation) and Vata (the dosha of movement) governs this phase. Rest and warmth support balance. Forcing productivity here can create cramps, anxiety, or depletion.

🌱 Follicular Phase (days 6–14)

• Science: Oestrogen rises. The brain is more receptive to new information. Energy and creativity build.

• Ayurveda: Kapha (the dosha of stability and nourishment) and Vata dominate. This is a fertile, grounding phase where the body rebuilds strength after menstruation. Gentle exercise, fresh foods, and new projects thrive here.

🌕 Ovulation Phase (around day 14)

• Science: Oestrogen peaks, luteinising hormone triggers ovulation. Libido, energy, and confidence often peak.

• Ayurveda: Fertility is at its highest. The body is magnetic, designed to connect. It’s a good time for important conversations, socialising, and creative output.

🍂 Luteal Phase (days 15–28)

• Science: Progesterone rises to prepare for possible pregnancy. If not, levels fall, triggering menstruation. This hormonal shift explains PMS symptoms - mood swings, bloating, fatigue.

• Ayurveda: Vata returns, alone, bringing more sensitivity and potential imbalance. This is when grounding foods (soups, stews), slower movement, and self-care rituals are most important. Ignoring these needs can intensify PMS.

What Symptoms Are Really Saying

Cramps, acne, mood swings, or exhaustion aren’t “normal.” They’re signs that something is out of balance. Ayurveda teaches us to listen instead of suppress: to see symptoms as messages.

Both science and Ayurveda agree that lifestyle factors - sleep, stress, diet, movement - play a major role in cycle health. When honoured, the cycle becomes a source of strength rather than struggle.

Living in Sync with Your Cycle

Here are a few simple ways to align:

• Rest more during menstruation. Yes! That may even mean taking a day off work or having some else cook for you!

• Start new projects in the follicular phase - where you have the energy to sustain and have more clarity.

• Schedule important meetings or social events around ovulation. Think charisma - want that next promotion or payrise?! This is the time to act!

• Prioritise self-care and grounding in the luteal phase. Steadiness and stability are key here.

When we work with our body’s rhythm instead of against it, life feels smoother. Productivity increases, health improves, and we reconnect with a sense of inner wisdom.

Your cycle isn’t just biology - it’s your body’s way of guiding you back to balance, month after month.

If you’d like personalised support to map your cycle and create a monthly rhythm that suits your life (or to support someone you love), you can book a free discovery call here: FREE Ayurvedic Consultation. No pressure - just clarity and a next step.

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