Three days before my period
This weeks blog post will be short because my vata energies are just all over the place I can’t hold on to one idea. This is likely because I’m in the second half of my luteal phase.
Ayurveda say Apana Vayu, a vata energy, is responsible for the downward moving energy of the body. This energy is responsible for elimination and during this time in a woman’s cycle, the goal is to support this energy to prepare for the menstruation. When it is disrupted there isn’t natural movement and this is the reason for cramps, incomplete elimination, etc. Menstruation is caused by heat so I make it a point to stay warm and cozy.
How I’m taking care of myself during this time:
Slowing down - workouts, work, mind. Spending more time resting and going inwards.
Eating warming meals- both in temperature and energy. Think cinnamon and cumin, butternut squash soups.
Restorative yoga - This is a time where my body is working super hard. Instead of my typical ashtanga morning routine, I did a restorative slow flow. Slow cat cows and gentle twists.
Grounding asanas. I’m currently in malasana as I write this.
Intentional breaths - I’m crying a lot and this is a sign of imbalance so I’m remembering to support myself with my breath. This also increases blood oxygen which will facilitate movement towards the uterus during this period.
Red therapy - I have a redlight therapy device that warms up on my tummy often.
Magnesium - relaxes your muscles allowing flow and assists with detoxification
Massaging- I want to do this more, warm some castor oil and spread it on my tummy while gently massaging. Yes. That sounds nice. I will do this right after publishing this. This practice is for before and after menstruation, not during.
I want to write a more comprehensive “what I do before my period” post. This post is so I stick to my summer goal of publishing a sunlight-corner post weekly.
Thanks as always for being here.
Much love,
Hazel
