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Thinking if stress is ruining your hormonal balance?

Writer: Femved WellnessFemved Wellness

Updated: Mar 22, 2024

Know about the mind body nexus and Know how your Nervous system dictates your hormones.


In Ayurveda, doshas are the three fundamental energies or bio-energetic forces that govern various physiological and psychological processes in the body. Each individual is believed to have a unique combination of these doshas, which influence their physical and mental characteristics.


"How Dosha operate during women’s menstrual phases and why is every phase of your menstrual journey important?”


The menstrual cycle is viewed as a vital process that reflects a woman's overall health and well-being. The doshas play a significant role during different phases of the menstrual cycle:


  • Menstrual Phase (Vata): During menstruation, Vata energy is dominant, and it is a time of cleansing and release.

  • Follicular Phase (Kapha): The follicular phase follows menstruation and is associated with the growth of ovarian follicles. During this phase, Kapha energy tends to be more prevalent.

  • Ovulatory Phase (Pitta): Ovulation occurs during this phase, and it is associated with the release of the egg from the ovary. Pitta energy is more dominant during this time, which is necessary for the transformation and release of the egg.

  • Luteal Phase (Vata-Pitta): The luteal phase occurs after ovulation and is a combination of Vata and Pitta energies. This phase prepares the body for pregnancy, and the uterine lining thickens in case of conception.



“What happens when you are stressed or going through a stressful phase?"


When a woman is under stress, the hypothalamus and pituitary glands play a crucial role in the body's stress response and can impact various physiological processes, including the menstrual cycle. The stress response is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which involves a complex interplay between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal glands.


Here's what happens to the hypothalamus and pituitary glands when a woman is in stress:


  • Hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a small region in the brain that acts as the control center for many physiological functions, including the stress response. When the brain perceives stress, the hypothalamus releases corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH).

  • Pituitary Gland: The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," is located just below the hypothalamus. In response to CRH, the pituitary gland releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).

  • Adrenal Glands: ACTH travels through the bloodstream to the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. In response to ACTH, the adrenal glands release stress hormones, primarily cortisol, into the bloodstream.

  • Cortisol Release: Cortisol is the primary stress hormone and plays a vital role in the body's stress response. It helps the body mobilize energy and cope with stressors by increasing blood sugar levels, suppressing the immune system, and altering certain physiological processes temporarily.


According to Ayurveda, this complex interplay leads to vata imbalance, flow of information gets disturbed and the function of vata ie movement and regulation in the body is disturbed and hence leads to multiple issues that affects the menstrual cycle in several ways like PCOS, Amenorrhea or even hormonal imbalance.



“Why it is important to take care of your diet and lifestyle through all phases of your menstrual cycle ? "


In Ayurveda, taking care of your diet and lifestyle throughout all menstrual phases is considered utmost important for maintaining overall health and well-being. The menstrual cycle is viewed as a vital process that reflects a woman's physiological and psychological balance. Proper diet and lifestyle practices during this time can help support a smooth menstrual cycle, reduce discomfort, and promote hormonal balance.


Here are few basic tips to maintain healthy menstrual phase :

  • Know Your Dosha: Understanding your unique constitution (Prakriti) can help you tailor lifestyle practices and dietary choices that promote emotional balance. Ayurveda recognizes three primary doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha has distinct emotional tendencies, and being aware of your dominant dosha can guide you in managing emotions effectively.

  • Healthy Diet: Ayurveda places great emphasis on a balanced and nourishing diet. Consuming fresh, seasonal, and wholesome foods that are suitable for your dosha can help support emotional stability. Avoiding processed and unhealthy foods is also essential to maintain emotional well-being.

  • Regular Routine: Establishing a daily routine (dinacharya) is vital in Ayurveda to promote a sense of grounding and stability. A consistent schedule for waking up, eating meals, and going to bed can positively impact emotional health.

  • Stress Management: Provide tools and techniques for stress management, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, yoga, or other relaxation practices. Managing stress can help mitigate emotional fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.

  • Self-Care Rituals: Engage in self-care practices regularly, such as Abhyanga (self-massage) with warm oil, which can promote relaxation and emotional balance.


Nervous system and hormones share a fascinating connection within our bodies and Understanding this intricate relationship is key to unlocking our holistic well-being!

 
 
 

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