At 30 years old, experiencing a consistently short menstrual cycle of 20 to 22 days can be challenging, especially when you desire a delayed period this time. While Ayurveda recognizes that hormonal balance is crucial for regulating the menstrual cycle, there are some natural approaches you might consider to help manage your cycle.
Dietary Recommendations: Focus on incorporating foods that can help balance hormones and may contribute to a delayed cycle. Eating foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds, can support hormonal health. Including whole grains like quinoa and brown rice can provide the necessary energy while promoting overall well-being. Additionally, consuming dairy products like milk and ghee can be beneficial, as they are believed to nourish the body and balance Vata dosha.
Herbal Remedies: Certain Ayurvedic herbs can help in managing the menstrual cycle. Ashoka (Saraca asoca) is known for its benefits in regulating menstruation and can be taken in the form of powder or tablets. Another herb, Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), is renowned for supporting women’s reproductive health and hormonal balance. Turmeric can also be added to your meals for its anti-inflammatory properties and overall health benefits.
Lifestyle Practices: Incorporating stress-reducing techniques can have a positive impact on your menstrual cycle. Practicing yoga or meditation can help balance your body and mind, potentially aiding in cycle regulation. Additionally, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and staying physically active can support hormonal balance.
Avoiding Certain Foods: Minimize the intake of caffeine, sugar, and processed foods, as they can disrupt hormonal balance and lead to irregularities in your cycle.
While these recommendations may help manage your cycle, it’s important to understand that delaying menstruation is not always guaranteed, as individual responses can vary.
Delaying a period through Ayurvedic methods can be a bit tricky, since it’s not usually our focus to change the natural rhythm of the body, more about maintaining balance. But hey, I get it, life’s events sometimes need us to make adjustments!
Now, your cycle being 20/22 days is pretty short, so keep in mind that trying to alter that might not be super predictable, you know? But, here’s a couple of things you could try. Remember – these are more supportive dietary changes, not guaranteed sets.
First, consider certain foods that are traditionally said to influence cycle timing somewhat. Turmeric and sesame seeds, for instance, have warming qualities that might encourage blood flow, so perhaps reducing these could help delay. Instead, focus on cooling herbs and foods. Cucumber, aloe vera juice, and amla might soothe if you’re feeling any heat or tension related to menstruation.
Ashoka churna, derived from the bark of the Ashoka tree, is another option. It’s used in Ayurveda for reproductive health, possibly balancing or stabilizing cycles. You might wanna try taking half a teaspoon in warm water once daily, but test how it suits you first.
Stress reduction can play a part too. Practising calming activities like yoga or meditation can potentially influence your pituitary gland’s hormones, indirectly affecting cycle timing. Try yoga nidra — a 30-minute session before sleep might work wonders.
Remember, these shifts can be subtle and might not work for everyone. If you’re thinking of trying any herbal supplemental changes, please consult with a healthcare professional familiar with your history, to be sure it won’t interfere with anything else you might be experiencing or taking. Take care that these methods might have limitations, and if it’s of real importance, chat with a gynecologist too. 😊
