-1

ll/"mnnh
BISI ]'/|[[
Hea lth,
and Long
I
T
Happiness,
Life Through
Maharishi Ayur-Veda
Nancy Lonsdorf, M.D.,
and Melanie
Veronica Butler, M,0,,
Brown, Ph.D.
Ieremy
P. Tnrclrr.r/ I'ullrnnt
a msmlrt,r rlt'
Penguln Iulrrnrn lnc,
Now Yorl
A WOMAN"'
B,ES T MEDICINE
than the satisfaction
of simply knowing'
"I am being fully myself'"
Enioying
this deef p-e-rJ"A i*tgtt'y
is no doubt the healthiest
way we can live. ro itruggle
against our natural inclination
even to
follow a seemingly
"iti'; behavioral
code would in the process
create more ama than oias, more stress than bliss' To stay healthy
requires ,,o, .o.p'o*ising
our integrity' although
we can-certainly
compromise
our
^tt"tn-!"'to
anything
outside
th1 self' to any
particular
person or activiry
In the strengftr
of the integration
of
self, we can be .*ott',
n;"'e'
ru'ith
a bedrock
of inner integrity'
we are free to .",;;iht
tighttt"
of being"'
unencumbered
by
tricks, falsehoods,
and manipulation'
-
Dr. Brihasp".i
Dt;i;da'
considered
the premier Ayur-vedic
physician in the *o'tO, lias offered so(ne very powerful descrip
tionsfromthetextsofCharakaformakinglife"fullyenlightened
and blissfut],
There are rour type' of life
(ayu) d9s9ribld.-
n,u'.
Yedr: bita-ry, Cnit'nJ-1n-yoott>'
abita-ayu
(ah-hih-tuh-ah-yooh)'
suk b a-ayu
(999-*;A?;nt'
and d'utt ktc a'av u {dooh'khuh-ah'
vooh).
Hita-ayu
o J-"iv""
do'ror ttre good and benefit
of the life
ofothers,forthehappinessofsociety.-et,it"-^y.,istheoppositeof
this,thatwhichisasaovantageoustoothersandforsociety.Sukha.
ayu is for the
gooa oiit" inliviaud
physiology'
to keep it heatthy
and blissful
,"ttt
"-"yo
is its opposn:-*y
type of life that is not
good for the individ;J fhytioi"gy'
Choosing
hita-ayu
and sukha'
ayu and avoiding
titi'
"ppbsites
gives us what we need to "keep
ourselves
pure, working
ior ottrers' and doing
good for the futurrcl
As women,
we have another
way to promote effortless
health and
happiness.
We nave it't
"a"""t"gt
oi a uniquely
female biological
cycle whose
purpose is to keep us maximally
healthy'
Cbapter 9
@
PURIFICAT
The Monthly Cycl
Health Advantage
TION
e as our
Truly there is ln tbls utodd
nothing so purtfytng
as knoutledge.
BhagavadGita
I)r. Balaraj Maharshi, one of lndia's most highly esteemed Ayur-
Vedic authorities, noted that in his nearly fifty years of medical ex-
perience, he has never seen anything like the number of
gynecological disorders common in the West. Western medicine,
it seems, has had little to offer women in the way of menstrual cy-
cle knowledge and care. In fact, until the 1940s, and even into the
next several decades, discussion of the topic was pretty much ta-
boo. Instead of educating women about the healthy effects of
menstruation and menopause, women were offered such
unwelcoming concepts as "the curse," "being unwell," and the
dreaded "change." Fortunately these negative constructs of female
physiological functioning have not been part of most world cul-
tures. Ayur-Veda especially views the menstrual cycle in a most
positive and evolutionary way.
,16
217
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
Our Beneficld Menstrual Gycle
One of the most powerftrl aspects of a woman's physiology is r
self-healing mechanism for keeping the bodymind prepared for
wholeness, a pulpose beyond reproduction. Menstruation is I
uniquely female physiological function, intimate to the health and
even happiness of women during their childbearing years. Yet fsrg
of us actually appreciate and realize the benefits of this cycle fuf
promoting our good health and long life in general. We more typ
ically see it as a nuisance at best, and so we fail to recognize lE
health-giving purpose.
The most obvious function of menstruation is allowing thl
body to slough off the inner lining (endometrium) of the uterull 6
prepare for another reproductive cycle. The shedding of the endO
metrial lining-the menstrual flow-is like a lawn that's beCO
mowed, so the top layer is removed. As a lawn is stimulated
growth by various amounts of sun and rain, the endometrial
is affected by amounts of hormones during the month, involvtng
cyclic interplay between the pituitary gland and the ovaries.
menstrual cycle will thus change in length, in the amount of
and so forth, as hormonal levels change.
Ayur-Veda offers us new understanding and appreciation of
role that menstruation plays in keeping us healthy. It does not
vile menstruation as a kind of ritual disorder; rather it honort
purifying value. It clarifies how the cycle provides a
cleanup system, a perfect renewal opportunity. A number of
search studies suppoft this understanding, that menstrual
keep women healthy, providing significant long-term benefftc,
we need to examine how this process works, so we may fully
ioy
its results and reduce any discomfort along the way.
also suggests precise ways to identi$ and treat various
disorders that may develop.
Once we understand the menstrual cycle as a puri$ing
nnism for keeping the bodymind prepared for wholenelt,
rccognize its purpose beyond reproduction as a regular
ttlly lirr climinating the accumulation of ama or waste productf
htvr thc potential to give rise to illncss,
2rt
219
A Syndrome
of Syrmptoms
Itrr many healthy women, the menstrual cycle is a normal, easy,
rrronthly elimination; for others, it is a time of intense pain, emo
ri'nal upset, and debility. some women waver between a rittre di*
crmfort and a great deal of discomfoft from month to month or
l'r'm year to year. what accounts for this wide range of menstruar
t'xperiences?
Modern medicine offers no clear answers as to why
ntch variable dysfunction
occurs.
Activated by the monthly hormone cycle, a syndrome of symp
r'nrs known as premenstruar
syndrome (pMS)
was defined back in
l9.tl. By now over l5O symptoms in nearly every organ sysrem
hlvc been attributed
to
pMS,
arthough many of the attributed dis.
,rtlcrs, such as binge eating, volatile emotions, and so forth, have
,cvcr been adequately researched
or significantly
associated
with
llrt' menstruar period itself.
pMS
theories abound, both biorogical
r,d psychological:
Researchers
have investigated
theories pos-
lulilting hormonal or biochemical causes, such as progesterone
de-
llr'lt'ncy, estrogen excess, vitamin 86 deficiency,- vit-amin A defi-
r lerrcy, elevated prolactin,
excess aldosterone,
decreased serotonin
trlrtukc, endorphin deficiency, prostagrandin
excess or deficiency,
l.ttrl allergic response to food, hormones, or environmental
agents.
l'ryt'ltologists have looked at the concept of stress as either a cause
,r r, cf'fect of PMS, expectation of symptoms as cause, and neurot-
h'hrrr
'nd
inner conflicts of various-tyies.
None of these theories
h* p.rved
definitive, and the rp..d. cause(s) of
pMS
remain a
lrtyikry. As a result, treatments based on them have limited suc_
ltm,
Alth,*gh most doctors today recognize that stress, lack of exer-
3l.",
lxxrr
diet, and other life-style factors al pray a role in creating
ilnnrrual difficulties,
there is littre agreement
on how to provide
P URIFICATION
illrl lirr PMS, other than through the use of medicatior*
ti"t
-"y
llve
,cgative side effects and whose effectiveness in arleviating a[
ryrt('nls
remains unproven or even disproven.
Neither the
pin,
rfrcircrone supplements,
vitamins nor tranquilizers
have been
I, t:rkc care of the whole job.
The most promising
of these
ltc,l!i, p()gcsitcrone
supplements,
was recently found, at lea$t
i
i
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
by one group of researchers, to be no more effective than a pl}
cebo.l Nearly all treatments appear to work to a certain extent, yct
none any better than a placebo, which seems to work exceptlonr
ally well in 40 to 95
percent of the cases studied.
Perhaps the most plausible model of PMS offered thus far is tht
"state model" theory of researchers Rubinow and Schmidt,2 whO
suggest that PMS is due not to an excess or deficiency of any ono
biochemical or hormone, but is rather a disorder characterized by
a "menstrual-cycle-linked transition into a particular experientld
state," an emotional state usually marked by irritability. But wltf
this happens is still unknown. How a woman's bodymind trantlll
into this experiential and physiological state is the missing link tO
understanding and treating PMS.
This is exactly the element that Ayur-Veda supplies.
As we've seen, the Ayur-Vedic theory and practice of medlclt[
is based on the understanding of the connection of our indivldu{
bodymind to an underlying field of intelligence. Any disconnectlofi
at this
iunction
can create a host of symptoms of imbalanCl
throughout our minds and bodies. From this perspective, PMS
basically a bodymind disturbance, an overall imbalance,
ing from a variety of imbalances within the doshas.
PMS is difficult for modern medicine to deal with because
wide variety of symptoms means that there is no one universally
fective treatment, no one vitarnin, hormone, or drug that solvc6
entire problem at the biochemical level. tn Ayur-Vedic termsr
cause each symptom is an expression of an imbalance that hai
source at a deeper level of the mind-body system, treating all
toms at once occurs only at that deeper level. This may be
PMS seems to respond so well to placebos, because the placebo
sponse takes place at the junction point where mind and
meet. A particular thought that something will work, a mental
of expectation, gets conveyed at thut precise
iunction
and
presses itself in the body, bolstering immunity, hormonal
and central nervous system stability.
Ayrr-Veda proposes that PMS and other menstrual cycle
lcnrs happen if and when we experience any or all of thrce
rlc;roxlcnt conditions: (1) Our biological rhythms are off, (2)
or lnorc <lf the doshas is out of balance, tlr (.1) there has
lrulkl up ol'ama or excess metabolic by-prrxltrcts during thc
220 22'
P URIFICATION
We will explore each of these causal conditions and see how
r';rch can be treated to take care of particular menstrual cycle
rymptoms.
The Relationchip Between the Menstrual and
Other Blological Cycles
M,st of us are aware that our changing moods and outlook can be
vt'ry much affected by the menstrual cycle, reminding us in both
rubtle and dramatic ways of how completely interconnected our
lxrdies, minds, and emotions are. But we can experience another
lcvcl of interdependence-our connection with nature itself, not
urrly in a poetic way but also in a biological sense. When you take
rr kxrk at nature, you see that the cycles, whether the winter cycle
,t hibernation, the lunar cycle of tides, or the twenty-four-hour cir-
lirtlian cycle of rest and activity, all have some kind of renewal
r'(,nlponent that promotes growth in the particular system they
lt,vcrn.
lluman biological rhythms too are cycles of rest and activity
wlthin your physiology. They are present at every level-from your
!)NA to your hormones to your cells to the more complex levels of
yurtr
biological functioning, from breathing in and out to psycho-
plrysiological behavior pattems such as sleeping, eating, and men-
rlnliltion. Within the menstrual cycle, the rhythms of hormonal
d( tlvity are higtrly significant. In fact, the time of month chosen for
Ittt'irst cancer surgery (in premenopausal women) has been found
lrr lrrfluence the survival outcome dramatically. ln a 1992 study of
rrrrgical treatment berween 1975 and 1985, published in ttre Tbe
I ttttcet, researchers found that of 250 women, those treated from
Itrry .t to Day 12 of the cycle (higher estrogen ourput)-counting
llrc lirst day of flow as Day l-had a 54 percent rate of survival,
wlrcrcas those treated in the first two days or from Day 13 to the
rtttl of the cycle (lower estrogen output) had an 84 percent sur-
vlvnl mte.
Wt' can recognize that these natural cycles don,t just happen
ilvrr irrrtl over purposelessly; they are highly well-organized and
wcll"tlnrcd events, meant to renew and revitalize and even trans-
lllrtrr, llir>krgical thus conveys a sense of the
.,logic,'
of biology.
f
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
There is a reason why things happen. Indeed, nature hasn't ghGil
women 45O or so montruy menstrual periods over approximatcly
forty years time
iust
so we can discard the fertilizable eggs not uscd
for reproduction. Nature is far more efficient than that. The shc4
ding of the endometrial lining is in and of itself purposeful: It I
health-producing. Our personal hormonal cycles are not indepcfr
dent events either; they are extremely intimate to the functionln|
of our bodymind and pull us into close association with all natunl
cycles. Many of us have noticed, for example, and research also
indicating, that our menstrual periods occur far more frequentf
during the times of the fi.rll moon. Moreover, it is well known
women who are close friends or who are living in groups stzrrt
have their menstrual periods simultaneously, in tune not only wldf
the environment, but with each other. I
If we recognize t}rat our biological rhythms are the rhythms
nature, then we readily understand the need for a balance of
and activity within our monthly menstrual cycle. And we can
ther understand why anything that throws off our
rhythm can create menstrual problems. Since each cycle
in phase with every other cycle, if we are off-rhythm in our
cycle owing, say, to
iet
lag, this can easily throw off our
cycle. Changing shifts at work from day to night and back
can also adversely affect a woman's cycle.
The presence of PMS generally indicates that our
rhythm of menstruation and hormone production is not
aligned. By rebalancing the daily rhythm of our lives through
good routine, the montbly rhythm of the menstrual cycle can
come stabilized, fi.rlly alleviating PMS symptoms for some of
Others of us, however, may need another kind of balancing,
yond our biological cycles. Ayur-Veda takes us into some very
esting new territory in considering a second cause of
problems, imbalance in one or more of the doshas.
The Doohalr as a Key to Solvlng Menctrrral Pr.oblqna
,fu$t
ils they conduct and carry out all other physiological
lltc lhrcc doshas are each intimately involved in the
t'yt'lc, Vrta is responsible for the downwartt f'l<>w, Kapha fur
222
223
PURIFICATION
nlucus, fluids, and tissues, and Pitta for blood, hormones, and
cleansing. Imbalance in any of the three doshas can result in a dis-
nlption in the normal menstrual process, which will eventually be
t'xperienced as a symptom. The type of symptom usually indicates
which of the doshas is responsible. Researchers are presently dis-
t'overing that PMS occurs in symptom clusters, with certain types
ol'symptoms tending to occur together more often than others.
'l'hese
clusters clearly parallel the grouping of PMS symptoms by
rkrshic imbalance.
ln a l99O preliminary study, Dr. Nick Argyl and his colleaguess
nrrrveyed women between seventeen and forty-five who met the
t'riteria for having PMS, and grouped the participants into four
iymptom clusters that paralleled those delineated by other
pMS
re-
n'urchers.a One group's symptoms were associated with Vata imbal-
iulces, another with Kapha imbalances, and a third with Pitta
Irrrlralances. Half of those in each group had participated in a vari-
cty of Ayur-Vedic programs, including TM, dosha-specific eating
l)rograms,
herbal supplements or rasayanas (see chapter 12),
llrnchakarma (also chapter 12), drinking hot water, monthly inter-
rml cleansing, da;rly oil massage, and keeping a regular bedtime.
S;rcific bodymind types were found to have responded best to
r;x'cific interventions. As Ayur-Vedic theory predicts, those with
Virtu dosha predominant noticed most benefits from rest, TM, and
rrgular bedtime; Pitta types found the purification of a monthly in-
It'rnal cleansing most helpful; and Kapha types responded best to
lltc ama-reducing eating regimes and the herbal supplements.
Ayur-Veda categorizes PMS and other menstrual symptoms with
n'li'rcnce to the undedying imbalance(s) in Vata, Pitta, or Kapha
Irrtl treats them not as single illnesses but according to the
rkrslra(s) that are out of balance. If Vata is out of balance, we might
rxgrcrience symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, feeling "spaced-
l,u|," constipation, and cramps. If mainly Pitta is out of balance,
wc'll notice symptoms such as iritability, diarrhea, heavy flow, and
Ittcrcased hunger. If a Kapha imbalance predominates, we generally
rx;rricnce water retention, bloating, swollen breasts, and perhaps
lrtlurrgy. If two or three or all three doshas are out of balance, any
rtl' llrcsc symptoms can arise. Correcting any imbalance in the
rkrrlurs lrelps eliminate PMS symptoms.
I lt'rc is a summary of symptoms categorized by dosha.
I
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
PItf,S ANI' DIENSTRUAL
VATA
Premenstrual
Nervous tension
Mood swings
Anxiety, depression
lnsomnia
Forgetfirlness
Constipation
Abdominal bloating
Fatigue
SYrttrPTODlS BY D()!}IIA
TYP E
Menstrual
Pain, cramps, backache
Extended length of period
Light amount of flow
Dark, clotted flow
lrregular periods
Spotting
Excessive bleeding
Increased frequency of
periods
Headache
Common diagnoses: Endometriosis, dysmenorrhea
Premenstrual
Irritability, anger
Increased appetite
Sugar craving
PITTA TYPE
Menstrual
Headache (especially
migraine)
E>rcessive body heat or
sweating
Diarrhea or increased
bowel movements
Skin rashes, acne
Common diagnoses: Menorrhagia, endometrial hype
dysfunctional uterine bleeding
224
22t
PURIFICATION
KAPHA
Premenstrual
rvrn (eND AMA-RErarro)
Weight gain
Fluid retention
Breast enlargement
Lethargy
Menstrual
Stiffness in back,
ioints
Pale, mucuslike menstrual
flow
Clots
Vaginal yeast infections
Slow digestion
Common diagnoses: Fluid retention, fibrocystic breast dis-
ease, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, vaginitis (yeast type)
You may notice that you have symptoms in two or even three
('xtcgories.
This can happen when an imbalanced Vata affects the
ulher fwo doshas. Most likely your imbalance started with Vata
tkrsha. So correct Vata imbalances first and then choose the dosha
(iltcgory
or categories that include a majority of your symptoms or
llrc symptoms that you find most troublesome, refeming back to
llrc food and rest recommendations in chapter 4 ilong with the
gtrldelines at the end of this chapter. You can also determine your
('rrrrent
dosha imbalance through learning self-pulse assessment
(icc
chapter 12) or by consulting an Ayur-Vedic physician.
It's necessary to remember that all the Maharishi Ayur-Veda pro
Itirnls
work together as a whole system to structure balance. They
work best if you follow all the recommendations, not
iust
one of
lwo, so you can gain all the benefits.
()ne
important note: The categoriza:tion of symptoms here ac-
lurtling to the doshas is, of course, not a substitute for proper
fitctlical evaluation and diagnosis. The degree to which a dosha im-
Iulatrce can manifest spans the range from mild functional symp-
lonls to malignancy. While mild menstrual pain, backache, or
lrlnlps are fairly cofirmon and are due generally to an imbalance in
Vrll tkrsha, more severe or incapacitating pain should always be
fvulrratcd by a physician, as it may indicate that a more serious con-
tlhlorr has developed. But regardless of the degree of imbalance de-
Vckrpcd, whether a minor complaint or a serious illness, following
llte guldclines for correcting the doshic imbalance (at the end of
f
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
the chapter) will help bring about better bodymind conditions
healing in coniunction with modern medicine.
As an overall guideline, pain is always less 'Anr-Vedically
rect" than straining to adhere to any healing routines while
ing.
'We
do not suggest that any woman should endure severe
and certainly encouttge taking a pain reliever for
cramps. However, it is important not to substitute this
treatment for correcting the causative imbalance. We can do
simultaneously, and many women who do so find that their
for medication decreases and eventually they may need none at
Identtfytng the Menstnral Subdocha
In the Ayur-Vedic system, each of the doshas is divided into
component functions of subdosltas, which represent the
of each dosha in various areas of the bodymind. Vata is the
most pervasive dosha, and "leads" the other doshas. ThereforE,
derstanding the functions of the specific subdivisions of
and how to keep them in balance is important for most
health-care measures. One of Vata's subdoshas, Apana (
uh) Vata, specifically governs the menstrual cycle and plays a
icant role in women's health.
Apana means "downward moving." Apana Vata functions ln
lower abdominal and pelvic regions and is responsible for
downward flow through the intestines, the urinary tfact,
the reproductive tract. If Apana Vata gets disrupted, the
flow can be irregular, clotry painfi.rl, start-and-stop, or
some other way. As we'll see, almost every menstrual problem
volves an imbalance in Apant Yata.
Ama and Mens;tnral lDiocomfort
Aytrr-Veda identifies ama as another cause of menstrual
Menstruation is an opportunity for ama cleansing; if our
lkxr lras been off during the month, or if we've taken in a
Ioxlns bccause of improper diet, poor cllgestion, or some
ntcntal polhrtants, an extra heavy buildup of wastes occuri,
226
227
J
PURIFICATION
iymptoms of PMS are due to this accumulation of ama and its ef-
li'cts on the doshas and dhatus.
If your diet, your sleep and rest, and your exercise are balanced
tluring the month, you'll notice far fewer PMS symptoms than if
you've been eating poorty, going to bed late, and not exercising
rrruch. Menstrual cramps, nausea, diarrhea, arrd/ot heavy flow are
ull more likely to occur during your period if your body requires in-
t'rcased cleansing in order to eliminate more ama. If your symp
toms are mostly ama-related, you may also notice that you feel great
rller your period; the effects may even last two or three weeks, but
ll'you continue with a poor diet and little exercise, too much ama
hcgins to build up prior to your next period, and PMS symptoms
cln flare up again.
If you are more careftrl during the entire month, lessening your
('(,nsumption
of caffeine,t alcohol, and
iunk
foods (foods high in
rrrgaq salt, and additives), you'll find a significant decrease in PMS
ryrnptoms, with feurer cramps and discomfort.
AyurrVedic Perspectives on Endometdosis
and Dysmenorrhea
Arr tlre result of ;atrrra, a much bigger job than ordinary may need to
lr lccomplished during the cleansing week of the cycle (possibty in-
llrrtling incomplete menstrual elimination from the previous month).
'llrc
intensity of the cleansing often enacerbates the menstrual difficul-
lhr tnd can cause a whole range of psychophysiological symptoms,
lrlr as those associated with endometriosis or d)rsmenorrhea.
According to one modern medical theory endometriosis occurs
wlrcn sloughed bits of the uterine lining, instead of moving down
lltrrugh the vagina and out of the body during the period, move
ttpw:rrd and adhere to the pelvic or abdominal organs. This usually
;rlults in severe pain during the period, as these bits of tissue,
tllrtrulated by monthly hormones, begln to bleed inside the abdo-
Rterr lnd set up an inflammatory reaction. At its worst, this can re-
Iult ln infertility, owing to scarring of the ovaries or Fallopian
Ittben, or severe pain in the abdomen. Most cases can be success"
lltlly trcated with laser surgery followed by hormonal therapy. But
tn(k,nlctriosis may be able to be avoided through preventive Ayur-
F
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
Vedic routines. Modern medicine has no explanation for whrt
causes pieces of uterine lining to move and adhere to the organ!,
and therefore provides no advice on how to prevent it. In AyuF
Vedic terms, endometriosis is a problem of imbalanced Apana Vatq
a reversal in downward flow; women with this condition are fre
quently constipated, a related symptom also due to imbalanccd
Apana Vata (see next section).
Dysmenorrhea, which means "painfril periods," generally affectl
women under age twenty-five. It is experienced as severe crampt
resulting from uterine spasms that temporarily deprive the uterlnt
muscle of orygen, a kind of "chadey-horse" of the uterus, perhapl
triggered by the release of prostaglandins. The pain can be blocked
by over-the{ounter pain relievers such as ibuprofen. This may help
the symptoms temporarily, but it is important for women with c(!t
vere menstrual pain not to ignore this not-so-subtle signal thrt
something's wrong.
Renee, a tbirQrfour-year-old Los Angeles rnanagetlrent con,
sultant, bad suffered
from
dltsmenorrbea and PMS
rymp
totns. For tutenty-tuo years, euer since sbe started merlt
struating at age tutelue, sbe bad bad almost no relief
from
O
dual condltion tbat sbe experienced
fifieen
days out of euetilt
month or one-balf of ber teenage and adult life.
Tbe PMS synptotns started about ten d.ays before eafi
period, uben sbe uould be so bloated tlJat sbe could nd
uear ber usual clotbes; sbe utould be sponing enougb 0A
baue to u)ear a tarnpon or pad. Afutays actremeljt tense
irritable, Renee uould
feel
a big drop in self-esteem and
on "A giant emotional roller coaster" Wben ber perlod
riued, tbe menstrual cramps tuere so seuere tbat sbe u.tas
ridden tuo or tbree d.ays each month. Sbe missed scltool
u;ork. Her relationsbips, including ber marriage, and
sexuality uere negatiuely affected by the montbly ordeal,
Renee
found
no relief
from
tbe usual
drugs sucb as aspirin or Midol, nor
from
stronger paln
cation sucb as Motrin. Sbe euenfi,mlly Med blrtb control
ttiltlcb irnproued tbe trarnps and paln xnncutbat, but
un lncrease in PMS q)tnptoms. Sbe
flnally
hacl to restrt ttt
Itqq narcttlc pain relleuers, ultlch sbe kxh.ftr many wurt
PURIFICATION
Wben Renee
first
came to a Mabarislti Ayur-Vedic bealtlt
center
for
an eualuation, slte utAs identified as bauing a
Pitta constitution utitb a seaere Vata dosba imbal.ance. To
acbieue bal.ance, sbe uas asked to auoid Vata-aggrauating
foods
sucb as rau uegetables and cold
foods
and drinks; to
take special herbs to balance Vata; to cut back on ber ercces'
siue exercise routine; and to rest at borne
for
tbe
first
tuo
days of ber period.
Oaer tbe
follouing
six montbs, ber symptollrs u)ere re-
duced by 5O
percent. Sbe acperienced cramps
for
only seu'
eral bours on tu)o days instead of enduring
fiue
days of
constant pain and sbe uas able to stop taking tbe narcotics.
Sbe tben started receiuing regular seasonal Pancbakarma
treatrnents, u*ticlt resulted in tbe total elimination of tbe
PMS symptoms and tbe need
for
all drugs accept
for
an oc-
casional aspirin tablet on tbe
first
day of ber period' Hauing
experienced almost an entire lifetin e of menstrual disorders,
tbree years later Renee describes ber "neut" pbysiologit as
"unbelieuable-I'm utalking on cloud nine."
The Subdoshas of Yatz;z Once Apana Tlrne . . .
l'lrc Ayur-Vedic texts describe the five subdoshas of Vata as divi-
rkrns of the one "life breath" that upholds all living systems. This
llli' cnergy is identified as a fundamental law of nature, the moti-
vrrting and evolutioflary force of creation. [t creates, sustains, and
rvolves within our bodymind. It is essential for good health-it is
rltt'r all the breath of life; without it, there is no life. And as Vata
I(,vcrns
all movement and flow in the mind and body, its five sub-
rllvisi<rns are also recognized as types of
flou,
which Ayur-Veda re-
k'rs to as five rypes of "breaths."
Irirst subdosha: Prana the forward breath
Sccond subdosha: Udana (oo-dah-nuh)-the ascending breath
'llrinl
subdosl'n: Samanm. Guh-mah-nuh)-the
assimilating breath
I
rr
rtrrth subdosha: Apana (uh-p3!-nuh)-the downward breath
lriltlr sutrdosha: Vyana (vyah-nuh)-the diffusing breath
22t 229
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
Each of the subdoshas is concentrated in various parts of tht
bodymind.
1. Prana is located in the head, heart, and lungs. Its funO
tions: To sustain all mental, emotional, and sensory experienct
and to maintain normal breathing and heart activity.
2. Udar:a is located in the ears, nose, throat, and drest. IE
ddp.iry
$rrtul
,
"n.
Ai ,t^
| frrnctions: Slreech, breathing, coughing, hiccoughs, and sneezlnl.
tsw*"'-
)
3. Samana is located in the stomach and duodenum. IO
,
r. t" _
functions: Peristalsis, digestion, assimilation, separation Ot
It5lrntttifi,'1
nutrients from wastes.
4. Lpana is located in the peMc area, intestines, and reptu
. I
ductive organs. Its functions: Elimination (via bowels, blrg
Jq',rrrroarrA
der), menstruation, sexual functioning, labor, and delivery
Apana also plays an impoftant role in the settling down ot
mental activity.
5. Yyana is located throughout the bodymind. Its fung
tions: Circulation, nervous system activity, and sense of touch,
Although the proper functioning of all five subdoshas of Vatr b
important for good health, none is as critical as the balanced funO
tioning of the first, Prana, and the fourth, Apana. Prana is sald tO
maintain life and health through awakening our innate impulse tO
ward greater happiness, progress, and frrlfi.llment, while Apanr
b
said to maintain that progress by moving wastes, impurities, Ot
other obstacles out of the way. Apana is also the primary ctte Ot
potential imbalance. According to Ayur-Veda, tbe most commOi
initial patbuay of disease in botb uomen and men is ula an
balance in Apana Vata subdosha.
ln essence, the "forward" and "upward" movement assoclatcd
with Prana and responsible for energizing the nervous system
be properly balanced by the "downward" action of Apana,
ated with the removal of wastes and impurities and the menstfUd
flow from the body. When these two subdoshas or breaths-
:rncl Apana-are balanced, all the functions of Vata are more
lo bc in balance and the body as a whole to be healthy. When
hnlnncc is upset, not only do the other functions of Vata beconI
tlhlurbcd, Pitta dosha and Kapha dosha oftcn become i
nr wcll.
230 23'
P URIFICATION
Here's what happens: When Apana Vata gets out of balance, in-
stead of flowing doutnu;ard, it moves uputard, ultimately interfer-
lng with the function of the other subdoshas.
This mechanism of Apana Vata moving upward is one of the
nlost common subdosha imbalances. Whether it results from too
rnany late nights followed by rushed mornings, intense mental or
t'motional stress, tnd/or poor eating habits, when Apana Vata be-
('omes
imbalanced and travels upward, a number of symptoms can
;rrise. We could notice a disturbance in the lower abdomen, such
xs a tendency toward constipation, iritable bowel, or we might ex-
pcrience menstrual discomfort. If the imbalance continues, then
Apana moves farther upward and causes imbalances in the other
Vlta subdoshas in the bodymind.
When this happens, a wide variety of symptoms can occur that
lirllow a speci-fic pattern. This pattern results from the interaction
ol'Apana Vata with the other subdoshas, as it pushes its way up-
ward from the lower abdomen. The natural reaction of your body
ls always to maintain balance, so the affected subdosha tries to
"push"
Apana back to its natural place, with varying degrees of suc-
t't'ss, and can lead to an uncomfortable feeling of pressure, tension,
(,r
constriction in the area involved.
For example, if Apana Vata moves upward past the stomach, it
lx'gins to exert pressure on the chest. It may then affect the func-
tkrns of the heart and circulatory system, the domain of Vyana
Vlta, leading to palpitations or, in more severe cases, to high blood
l)rcssure.
Other symptoms such as sinus congestion, hay fever, and light-
Irt'udedness can occur if Apana Vata moves farther upward into the
nrca of Udana Vata, which includes the ear, nose, throat, and sinus
l)irssages.
If Udana Vata pushes down in an attempt to maintain its
Ironreostatic status quo, tension and tightness in the neck com-
rrurnly result.
Finally, if Apana Vata has overridden all attempts by the other
rrrrbdoshas to prevent its inappropriate course upward, it reaches
tlrc head, the domain of Prana Vata, resulting in symptoms such as
w()rry, anxiery insomnia, headache, or head pressure.
It is apparent that Apana Vata, when it becomes severely imbal-
iurt'ccl, can cause a number of problems. What follows is the case
ol'onc woman who developed an imbalance of Apana Vata which
F
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
also caused an imbalance in Samanayata, as vata moved up. Thll
resulted in serious menstrual and digestive problems.
Rebecca D. came to a Mabarlsbi Ayur-veda bealtb centet 4l
age tbir$t-tuto. Fof ttJe precedingfourteen
years slte bad bcln
dealing utitb a seuere conditionfirst diagnosed as a consfu
tion of tbe muscle controlling tbe ualue betuteen trJe storna*
and small intestine. Her ability to eat uta^s limlted by bO
constant nausea. Her rnenstrual periods stopped
for
elgbl
years. sbe bad a number of bouts toitb mononucleosls art
ended up lraalng tbe uound-up, rubberband-tigltt
rnuscle surgically remoued utben sbe uas tutenfirfoux
Tbe condition catne about, Rebecca belieues, as tbe
of ber
feelings
sumounding tbe sudden deatlt of ber
lr
utben sbe utas eigbteen. 'I
felt
sucb deep sadness and
particularly
because I neuer got to say good-bye to blm." SbO
u)cx on ber outn uery quickly, holding back ber uery rtJ,
etnotiotts in order to be "grou)n
up."
,
Tbe surgery bad only minimal effect; sbe stilt
felt
ated a lot. Her periods
started up again and became
but utere accompanied by cttilk and uomiting. At age
sbe underutent
furtber
tests but no abnormalltjt taas.
tbat could account
for
ber continued symptoms. Tbe
utould grip ber so
forcefully
tbat sbe uould constantlJ/
up at tbose closest to beri including ber busband. Sbe
psycltotberapy,
ubere a great tnany anger issues came
Sbe
felt
sorneutbat better emoilonally, but ber body
ued to "acplode" in bouts of dlarrbea and uomitlng.
After seeing seueral cltiropractors, Rebecca utent
fof
Mabarislti Ajtur-Vedic eualuation. She utas prescrlbed
.ltt
courses of Pancbakarrna treat nents ouer a yearb tlme,
addition, she utas aduised to prepare
for
ber perio*
wllb
ternal cleansing and utas giuen certain Ayur-Vedlc berbt
reset ber pblsiolory
Sbe started an eating program
to
ance Apana Vata. Sbe learned to take ber
food
craulngt
rlousljt, as indlcatlue of speciftc lmbalances. Sbe learned
,,
ttthlcb sbe belieues gaue ber a deeper way tct be
uttcl lnteract ultb otbers to draut morc knte and suppor0
hcrse$
232
2:t3
PURIFICATION
Fiue years later sbe says, "I
finally feel
truly nourkbed in-
side and all tbe symptoms haue airtually disappeared, except
for
some mild cramping during my period. My eating bas
improued. I'ae gained tbe ueigltt I uanted to. Tbere is no
rnore nausea. And I am
finally feeling
ready to consider hau-
ing a cbild, sometbing I only dreamed of years ago but neuer
tbougltt my bealtlt uould allou;'
Now let's look at another woman's experience with an imbal-
lnce in Apana Vata that centered around a hysterectomy.
APANA I/ATA IMBALANCE BET()RE ANI)
AFTEN IIYIsTER,ECT()DIY
Alice E, a
fifty-eight-year-old
pbysicist
from
Cbicago, bad
been suffering
for fiue
years
from
a myriad of seemingly un-
related. complaints tbat doctors bad
finally
concluded must
be "psychosomatic|' By tbe time Alice uent
for
Ayur-Vedic
treattnent, sbe bad bad multiple utorkups and bad under-
gone seueral years of psycltotberapy, ulticlt sbe said "belped
me und.erstand rnyself better, but did not belp ltout I
feel-
notbing has belped tbat|'
Alice's most troublesome sytnptotn u)as a constant pres-
sure and pain in ber jau and at tbe back of ber bead ufiiicb
trccasionally inuolued ber entire bead. Tbe pressure u)6ts 6ts-
sociated. utitb tnental
fuzziness
and a lack of colterent tbink-
lng. In addition, sbe experienced
frequent
emotional ups
and douns that sbe bad neuer experienced before in ber life.
I'his loss of inner stability utas quite demoralizing to ber
Tbe onset of Alice's sytnptotns
fiue
years before coincided
u'ltb a l4tsterectomy
for fibroid
tutnors of tbe u.teru.s, associ-
uted bitb beauy bleeding. Sbe
felt
sbe neuer completeb/ re-
unrcred ber preuious leuel of uitality
follou;ing
tbe surgerlt,
,lbc deueloped a series of syrnptorns tbat ber doctors usere
unable to explain otber tban to say tbat tbe numerous tests
sLxnaed notbing serious; hopefulb,, her gtmptorns utould go
ttutd!. Tbese included irregular boutel rnouernents and
flatu-
lcnce, whlcb utere diagnosed as ititable bouel syndrome,
ttlottl4 ttlth pressure in ber bead, utlticlt bad been only
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
temporarily relieued by patn medications, cbiropractlc tttt{D
rt ent, or acupuncture.
Wben Alice sougltt out a Mabarishi ,AjturVedtc
tion, acamination of her pulse reuealed an imbala.nce
Udana Vata, utith an underljting disturbance ln Apana
ln tbe louer abdominal reglon. Tbe connections u)ere
The imbal.ance bad begun in Apana Vata, probably long
fore
ber
Wsterectotny,
as euidenced by tbe long-term
and. presence of tbe
fibroid
tumor Vata dosba usually
con es disturbed at least temporarily b1t surgery and
tbe surgery inuolues tbe abdomen or pelais, Apana
in particular are disrupted. Alice experienced tbe
distention and temporary boutel dysfunctions comtnon$t
perienced after abdominal surgery.
Her Ajtur-Vedlc treatment uas directed touard
Apana Vata
first
and subsequently treating Udana Vata,
ter a montb of at-bome treattnent, ulticb included dally
self-massage, berbal supplements to balance Apana
Ud.ana, and dietary modification to reduce ama, Allil
ported an ahnost cotnplete reduction in bead pressune-
uirtually gone"-And a grouing sense of control ouer
bealtlt. She utas uery relleued. "It's comfortlng to
knout utbat bas been bappening to n y bealtlt and wlty
to baue sucb a simple and preclse uay of treatlng tbe
lems. I'm beginning to
feel
like m.yself again;'
Alice's experiences before and after hysterectomy are
nately not unique. What is questionable is the use of
as a treatment fof a benign condition. From an Ayur-vedic polnl
view, the Apana Vata disturbance should be treated fust to
the symptoms subside before a hysterectomy would be
an appropriate intervention.
A recent book by Winnifred Cutler, Ph.D., Hysterectomy:
and Afieti includes information collected from a review of
3,500 recent studies. She concludes that every aspect of a
lrcalth may be affected by hysterectomy, including her
her outlook on life, her moods, her sex llfe, and her ratc of
(lutlcr
is among a growing number of Western researcheri,
t'lnrrs, and medical workers who are serkrusly rcthlnklng thll
231
2ltt
PURIFICATION
l(xlcommon procedure. She counsels, "There is an understandable
panic when
[a
woman] is bleeding unexpectedly. However, if she
('an
muster the patience to have a thorough diagnostic process, she
Iras a good chance of finding a healthfr.rl resolution to her problem
that does not include hysterectomy." We would simply add that the
tliagnostic process might do well to include an Ayur-Vedic evalua-
tlon to identi$ and address the underlying causes.
AyurrVedlc Treatrnent of Apana Vata Imbalance
'!ir
prevent and treat all of these menstrual cycle disorders, deep
x'st and the avoidance of excessive mental and physical activity
thrring menstruation are recofilmended. Often very active women
try to push aside the symptoms and pretend nothing is wrong.
'l'lrcse
are the very women who will benefit most by taking their
lonclitions seriously and dealing with them directly and effectively.
'l'lrc
habit of taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin and
tlrcn blithely bameling ahead as though nothing were happening
;thysiologically
is a shoft-term convenience that can cause real
pnrhlems later on, as ama continues to accumulate month by
llrrxrth and Apana gets more out of balance. Many effects of what
lr culled aging, including arthritis, are due to this dual condition of
rttttrr and imbalanced Vata, which you can reduce or prevent
llrrough propef attention to a Vata eating program and adequate
ttrru climination earlier in life-and by taking a real rest during the
llmt l['w days of each menstrual period.
Some Western women abeady have figured it out for them-
trlvcs. As writer
Judy
Grahn has said, "Now . . . I eat quite
tlll'lcrt'ntly-and I love my period. . . . I try to spend time by myself
helrrrsc I feel pleasantly introverted and a little spaced-out (or in)."
limlrn goes on to report that other women "are attempting to find
lltlr pcrs<lnal seclusion as well. Often this state
[during
menstrua-
lhrlrl lncludes strong feelings of renewed purposefulness in life,
Flf rcspcct, and good will and gentleness toward other human
hlng.,"u
'l'lrc
Ayur-Vedic key is to maintain the proper function of Apana
tiltrr, which is actively moving wastes, impurities, and the men-
tnul hkxxl downward and out of your body. If Apana is disturbecl
A WOMAN'S B,EST MEDICINE
and moves upward at this time, your period will not provide u
much opportunity for purification. The general idea is to go wlth
the body's natural impulse to stay quiet and not be so acthG,
Downward and inward, not outward and upward, is more or lcra
the bodymind dictum during your period.
Here are some simple guidelines for enjoying, not simply en'
during, menstruation, ubetber or not you are experiencing any
symptoms.
The AyurYedlc Prescription for Menstruatlon
1. :rAIr'E TIlf,E
()UT
T()N, REST
In general, Ayur-Veda recommends resting during the heavy dayl
of flow (the first two to three days for most women). But restlttt
doesn't necessarily mean lying in bed, unless cramps or othol
symptoms are incapacitating. Rest can be anything that enables
1oU
to adopt a slower pace to minimize any stress or fatigue.
In general it is not advisable to sleep during the day becautl
this promotes sluggishness, poor circulation, and a tendency fO1
blockage in the shrotas, the channels in the body through whlch
ojas flows. This is especially important for Kapha types, or if
1oU
have a Kapha imbalance. However, a brief rest lying down is fln0,
If you can, plan to take those days off each month for light, ctI
joyable activities around the house, such as reading, organizlttj
etc. [f you must work outside or in your home, plan a
schedule and try to avoid staying late at work or school. When il
home, eat a light supper, minimize evening activities, and go to
early. One woman who followed these rest guidelines for a
commented, "[ used to feel like a traitor to women by resting,
not working, and by not running around oblivious to my
ogy throughout my period. But now that IVe experienced how
benefits my health and relationships, I've come to feel I d be a
tor to myself if I didn't rest."
lf you are a mother, plan shopping trips, appointments,
talning, and so forth around those two or threc days as best
('iln;
try to take some extra rest time for yourself in the
ntttl rctirc carly, if at all possible . If your rt'sponsibilities do not
236
237
PURIFICATION
mit you to rest adequately during your period, try to rest during
the weekend before or after and pay extra attention to other mea-
sures for Vata pacificatiofl (see chapter 4). And do the best thing
lirr Vata that you can: Don't worry about it!
As a mother of four has found, "It's a relief to know I'm not
only justified
but 'wise'-as opposed to feeling irresponsible-
when I tell my family not to expect me to cook or go with the kids
on a long hike, and that I'll be taking it easy instead. ['ve learned
tx)t to strain to accomplish what I can't do easily at that time."
2. It'EEP Y()IIR EXERGTSE EASY
A walk each day for about fifteen to thirty minutes during a period
ls ideal for most of us. If you are in the habit of exercising, whether
nrnning or participating in an aerobics or dance class, it would be
lx'tter to reduce your exercise workout during your period to no
rrrore than a brisk walk. This smooth, steady, lighter activity is more
t'orrducive to normalizing menstrual flow and maintaining balance
Irr Vata dosha. No one doubts your ability to get your pulse rate up
to 16O while you're menstruating, it's just physiologically inappro
;rriate.
You can, however, use your exercise program to prepare fot
y'otrr period. Women commonly experience fewer cramps and have
iilr casier period when they have been exercising regularly through-
uut the month. Consistent, moderate exercise is one of the best
prt'ventive measures for menstrual health in general, especially
wlrcn you follow a program that considers your bodymind type as
wt'll as your level of conditioning (see chapter 4).
.T. LET Y()URSELT TURN INWAN,ID IT POSSIBLE
l'lrls is a time for reiuvenation, the best time to attend to your own
nct'tts and happiness. To keep Vata settled, it's better to avoid
lrrrgthy conversations or matters that involve a lot of mental work.
ll you can take extra rest, allow youf awareness to be more inward
Irrtl pay attention to your body. Try to do the things that you enjoy
rhrrlrrg your period. Don't save up all the chores just because you
ltrow you're going to take a little time off. In general, say the Ayur-
Vc(ll(' lexts, positive emotions at this time help culture more re-
lilrrrl li'clings throughout the month.
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
If you are more inward, one woman noted, "The period itse[ lt
smoother-there's less discomfort and irritability, and I have I
lighter flow, so I don't need painkillers to make it through. It aho
leads to a much greater sense of mental well-being, because I'm
not straining to focus and be active when my mind and body want
to be more quiet and settled. This sense of well-being camlel
through the rest of the month."
4. ENJr'oY A YATA.PACITYING EATING n,EGIII 8
Your diet should be full of light, warm, Vata-paciffing foods that an!
easy to digest, because your digestive fires are weaker during yot[
period. Avoid carbonated beverages, which aggrivate Vata. Tht
second focus during your period, after keepingY*a balanced, ls tq
minimize ama production. The most important points are to eat I
little less than usual, especially in the evening, to avoid cold drlnlfl
and cold foods, and to avoid ama producers such as cheese, yoguft,
red meat, chocolate, and fried foods.
'.
IIANIDLE CRAYINGS GloMTloRTABLY
Many women experience cravings for sweets or for salty foods
fore or during their periods. This craving time is not at all
it represents your bodymind's desire to pacify Vata or Pitta. It
can be the result of ama. that is blocking proper delivery of
tion to your digestive tissues. As a rule, you will usually do
damage by satisffing the salt craving first; you may then notice
the sugar craving disappears. Salt cravings can be more fully
fied for a longer time by having a cooked dish seasoned with
than by eating chips or other quick-fix snacks.
If you still want sugar, fresh whipped cream with honey can
a surprisingly satisrying substitute for ice cream, without thc
ter's digestive fire-extinguishing effect. Warm milk with honey lr
cxcellent choice as well; add the honey after the boiled mllk
t'rxrlcd down.
23t 2!t9
P URI FICATION
6. BATIIING AND ()ILING
llrthing in cold water tends to reduce flow, while bathing in hot
water tends to increase it. while baths can be relaxing and sooth-
Ing to Vata, for most women a shower is ideal on days of heavy
l'krw to minimize any interference with the natural pace of the
nrcnstrual flow vata can also become aggfavated if there's a lot of
tturssaging, especially around the head area, so it's advisable to
kccp shampooing to a minimum and postpone having a facial or
other head or face treatments during the first few days.
Gently massaging your head with warm sesame oil on the
lirrrrth or fi-fth day of the cycle, leaving it on for several hours or
rvcn overnight (keeping
a towel on your pillow) and then sham_
pooing it out has a wonderfrrlly soothing effect on Vata.
'l'he
daily abhyanga or oil massage described in chapter 12
rrt'cds to be modified during your period. kave out any vigorous
nr:lssage-or you may want to skip abhyanga altogether.
7. SEXUAL ACTItrTTY
'l'lrc
classic Ayur-Vedic texts say that menstruation is not a good
tllrrc for sexual activity. This recommendation is not based either
iln the desirability of a woman at this time or on a woman's de-
rlrt's; it is based on a sound principle for health. sexual activity
tclrcls to disrupt the smooth flow of Apana Vata during your men-
rlruirl flow and can thus promote the development of vata imbal-
tln('cs.
A. HYGIENE
'lhnrpons
are not as healthy as they are convenient. Even though
t.onccrns have abated about Toxic Shock Syndrome (fSS), tampons
Irr gcneral impede the free passage and clearance of the menstrual
Irkxrtl. Use external absorbent pads if possible. If you find it too in-
r.orrvcnient or impractical to forgo tampons entirely, at least use ex-
lcrnal pads at night and whenever you are just taking it easy
[rorrnd the house.
I
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
The AyurrYedic Prescription for Premenotnral end
Menstrual Problems
Some pain during the monthly period is common, especially whttl
we are active and focused. Menstrual pain, backache, or crampr lil
the result of imbalanced Vata. So are the severe pain of dysmcnoi
rhea and the attachment of uterine tissue to the abdominal org[l
that occurs in endometriosis, although these are far less comm0l
symptoms. [ncapacitating menstrual pain should always
evaluated by a physician.
You can also reduce the symptoms of PMS by following the
vice given under the menstruation section above, in addition to
following:
l.Yata pacification through diet and rest is a general
If you habitually have menstrual problems, this may indicate
your Vata dosha is out of balance. You may really need to rest
during your period.
2. Drinking plain pure hot water frequently, as often as
thirty to sixty minutes, during your period will help regulate
flow and reduce menstrual cramping by promoting the
downward movement of Apana Vata. Drink just a few sips up tO
cup, according to your thirst at the moment.
3. A regular eating and rest routine throughout tbe montb
very helpfrrl. Remember that harmony in your daily rhythmc
help balance your monthly rhythms. The imbalance of Apana
often happens when you haven't stayed on a regular eating,
cising, and rest routine.
4. Darly oil massage, abl4tanga, is also higtrly
throughout the month. (See chapter 12 for instructions.) Focru
massage on your abdomen; massage it gently with sesame oil,
a clockwise circular motion, for a few minutes every day.
with a warm tub bath.
5. Heat and oil are great Vata-pacifiers. l)uring your
gcntly massage the abdomen and low back, if it is hurting,
wurnr scsame oil and then apply a hot watcr hottlc to thc a
nrrrl/or krw back. This often helps to allcvlutt. thc pain cnorrgh
240
PURIFICATION
rlcep at night or to feel reasonably comfortable during the day.
6. A liquid diet (juices, dhals, soups, or blended solid foods
rrrade from vegetables, grains, etc.) is also very beneficial on the
lirst day of the period when your agni is naturally slowed down.
l,iquids are digested more easily. This procedure helps prevent and
tliminate ama, reduces bloating, and helps promote a normal flow
without cramps or pain. You might also want to avoid eggs or any-
llring fermented such as vinegar, ketchup, or soy sauce, as well as
vcry spicy or very sour foods.
7. Ttke two tablespoons of pure aloe vera
iuice
after lunch and
rlhrner every day of the month until one week before your period.
lk'sume after completion of the menstrual flow.
INTERNAL CLEANttING INSTRUCTIONt5
\irrr can also help alleviate menstrual problems by the following
rrronthly internal cleansing program. This Maharishi Ayur-Vedic pro
11r:rm
is suitable for women in overall good health who have no se-
rlous gastrGintestinal diseases. Its purpose is to clear your digestive
trirt't of toxins and other ama-producing substances.
Cfhis
program
lirn also be beneficial for menopausal symptoms, which we discuss
In t'hapter 11.)
l)crform the cleansing once a month for three months in
rrrltlcycle, at ovulation, i.e., between the fourteenth to twentieth
rhy of your cycle, counting from the first day of the last period.
()n
a day when you can remain at home (or at night if you pre-
h'r), take a warm bath or shower, then take four teaspoons of cas
tor oil mixed well with one-fourth cup of fruit juice (other than
Brill)c),
for palatability. Irmon or orange work best. This will usu-
llly result in three to four bowel movements ovef the next four to
rlx lrours. If you've had no bowel movements after the first three
lrorrrs, take an additional two teaspoons castor oil. Do not eat until
llrr nraiority of the laxative action has ceased, although small
nnounts of warm water or juice are all right if you feel the need.
Yrrtrr diet for the remainder of the day should consist of warm,
lrxrkcd food that is not too oily, preferably liquid or semisolid, such
il,r rorlps, lentils or dahl, or cooked cereal. Avoid any cold drinks or
frrrxls, and have a restful, easy day.
211
l
r
A WOMAN'S BEST MEDICINE
lf these measures are not helping, you may want to consider a con-
sultation with a Maharishi Ayur-Vedic physician. He or she may be
able to prescribe specific herbs for Apana and other imbalances
and may suggest some Panchakarma treatments (see chaptet l2).
Now that we've explored this very vital aspect of women's health
care, let's look at the reproductive aspect of the menstrual cycle. In
the following chapter, we'll see how Maharishi Ayur-Veda can help
support you through pregnancy, childbirth, and being a new
mothe! and can expand your conception of motherhood.
242 213
-J
Cbapter 10
@
NURTURANCE
Pregnancy, Childbifth, and Other
Conceptions of Motherhood
We sbould knout that tbe purpose of creation is
tbe atpansion of bapplness.l
Maharishi Mahesh Yogi
Ayrrr-Veda defines human life span in terms of a sequence of the
tlrrcc doshas. The Kapha cycle starts at birth and lasts to around
"tlrirty-something."
It creates the psychophysical and social struc-
Itrrt' through which we experience rapid physiological growth and
Ilrirrrge, as well as mental development. During the Pitta cycle,
wlrk'h governs the middle years, from about thirty to seventy, we
put our development to use. This is the most active and interactive
r
1'r'lt'-the
"metabolic" time of life, a time of focus, when we expe-
llt'rrt'c the processes of transformation and learn to make things
Imgrllcn, whether we are raising a fumtly and/or making other con-
lrllrtrtiOns ro society in dynamic activity. The Vata cycle of life can
tl{rl ls carly as age fifty-five or as late as age seventy, depending on
unr''s pcrsonal psychophysiology, and can last a very long time
llrrt'llicr. The Vata cycle is associated with expansion, related to
llr rlt'rrrcntal qualities of wind (uayu) and space (akasba). It is a
lltttc whcn intuition and other aspects of inner development can
hlurmrru, when we can gtow to higher levels of awareness, and can
l'otttrllrtrtc the dcpth of our wisdom, our counsel, our healing pow-
tfr, lrl r'vcr largcr communities.