At some point, all women will experience hormonal changes (usually throughout their 40s and 50s), which can result in many different emotional and physical symptoms.
The most common symptoms reported include:
Hot Flashes
Mood swings
Reduced libido
Vaginal dryness
Weight gain
Restlessness
Insomnia
Decreased bone density
Osteoporosis
Chinese Medicine’s take on Menopause
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory states that menopause is caused when there is an imbalance of ‘yin and yang’ in the body. What are yin and yang? Essentially, yin and yang are two complementary, yet opposite forces of nature that should be in harmony for optimal health.
What are yin and Yang?
Yin is considered the more feminine force that represents water, coolness, stillness, dark, night, the moon. Yang is more masculine in nature, and represents fire, warmth, activity, light, daytime, the sun.
A balance of yin and yang is when the body is in a healthy state and free from disease. This means we’re not overly hot, not overly cold, and getting adequate rest and activity in balance. However, imbalance often occurs because of age, lifestyle, and environmental factors, thus resulting in disease. Menopausal symptoms are a result of the imbalance of yin and yang.
what are the role of Female hormones in menopause?
Estrogen, one of the main female hormones, is considered a women’s precious yin hormone. As we age, estrogen and other hormones begin to decline, which starts to disrupt the balance in yin and yang. Less yin means more yang present in the body, resulting in yang like symptoms such as hot flashes, restlessness, and insomnia.
How can acupuncture help with menopausal symptoms?
Acupuncture can help “rewire” the yin and yang of the body, helping to create more balance in the system. Yin can also be nourished by diet. Important foods to incorporate include:
Beans (kidney beans, soybeans, black beans)
Seaweed
Asparagus
Walnuts
Shellfish such as clams and oysters
Throughout menopause it’s important to maintain an active lifestyle, yet getting quality rest and eating a well-balanced diet. Acupuncture may not prevent menopause but it can greatly reduce the side effects of this natural life change.