Navigating Perimenopause with Ayurveda
Holistic Health in the 21st Century
In this enriching conversation, I learn about the world of Ayurveda medicine and its applications with Dr. Shivani Gupta, an expert in the field.
Dr. Shivani shares her health journey which led her to study Ayurveda formally. Having uncovered the amazing power of Turmeric she was inspired to take a deeper dive and her Ph.D. studies focussed on using turmeric to battle inflammation.
Dr Gupta weaves an amazing tale of East meets West and I hear all about the three body types or 'dosha'. We can use this traditional wisdom to aid us in managing our health at perimenopause and beyond!
Join us as we explore different nutritional approaches, explore the importance of gut health and the need for regular detoxification. Dr Shivani also underlines the crucial roles of sleep, spices and lifestyle habits that help us manage inflammation and enhance overall health.
What is Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an ancient system of health, healing, and medicine originating from India over 5,000 years ago. It takes into account our individual body tendencies, known as Doshas, and offers unique tools to maintain balance. These tools include practices like aligning with our natural circadian rhythm, getting adequate sleep, and using spices and herbs in our diet.
Understanding Doshas
According to Ayurveda, we’re born with our dosha - a unique biological energy that governs our body's physical and mental processes - determined by factors like our date and time of birth, and our parents' doshas. There are three doshas, Vata (wind and air), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water), with each contributing to our physical, emotional, and mental characteristics. Recognising and understanding our dosha type can help us to tailor our approaches to health and life transitions, including menopause.
Top Ayurvedic Approaches to Menopause
So, let’s explore some practical Ayurvedic tips to help manage menopause symptoms and enhance overall well-being.
i. Proper Nutrition and Supplementation:
We need to feed our bodies properly. Ayurveda encourages the use of potent spices like turmeric and hing for their powerful health benefits. Turmeric is excellent for reducing inflammation, a common issue during menopause. However, to reap its full benefits, it should be taken in supplement form.
ii. Detoxification:
It’s more than taking a break from unhealthy foods; it's also about cleaning out our systems. Tools include a copper tongue scraper for daily detox, regular Ayurvedic self-care rituals, and an annual or seasonal detox to prevent the accumulation of toxins (referred to as ama in Ayurveda).
iii. Movement and Exercise:
Movement is vital in Ayurveda. If a high-intensity workout seems too much, opt for yoga or walking in nature. A leisurely 45-minute walk once or twice a day does wonders for our overall well-being.
iv. Adequate Sleep:
The role of restorative sleep can't be overstressed. Ayurveda teaches us to leverage our melatonin's natural release by sleeping between 10 pm and 2 am. Doing so aids in proper detoxification and rejuvenation.
Adopting an Ayurvedic Lifestyle
Remember that Ayurveda is not just about herbs and nutrition. It's about lifestyle changes and creating a routine that supports your total well-being. It might take time to put these practices in place, but with consistent effort, the rewards will be long-term health benefits, not just through menopause but beyond.
With the right tools, we can navigate through our menopause journey smoothly and naturally. Ayurveda offers a holistic approach, nurturing us from the inside and out as we transition into this new phase of life. Menopause needn't be something to be feared, but rather a change to be embraced, understood, and managed better with prevailing wisdom from the ancient Ayurvedic practices.
My thanks to Dr Shivani Gupta for sharing her knowledge and expertise.
Movement Made for Menopause.
Join me Online for Pilates and Yoga Made for Menopause
Until next time, look after yourself, and remember – you’re not alone on this journey.
Phillipa x