Ritumaticharya (Menstrual Regimen) According to Ayurveda

Ayurveda gives importance to every phase of a human's life. Moreover, Ayurveda mentions specific regimens for the particular phase you are going through. One such regimen every woman in her fertile phase needs to follow is Rtumaticharya. Rajaswalacharya or Rtumaticharya refers to the specific regimen and lifestyle guidelines recommended during menstruation to ensure healthy cycles, prevent complications, and maintain overall well-being.

In this present era, where gynaecological problems are widespread, it is highly recommended that women follow these healthy regimens. Following these regimens can hugely benefit your reproductive health and overall health. Read this blog to know more about this. 

According to Ayurveda, menstruation is governed by the interplay of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha dosha. Each dosha has its role to play. Find out the roles below: 

• Vata: Governs the movement of blood and the expulsion of the endometrial lining. Imbalances in Vata can lead to irregular, scanty, or painful periods.
• Pitta: Influences the transformation of blood and the regulation of body temperature. Pitta imbalances manifest as excessive bleeding, hot flashes, and irritability.
• Kapha: Maintains the integrity of reproductive tissues and regulates fluid flow. Imbalances in Kapha result in heavy bleeding, delayed periods, and water retention.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle and Dosha

1. Rajasrava Kala (Menstrual Phase): Dominated by Vata dosha.
2. Ritu Kala (Proliferative Phase): Dominated by Kapha dosha.
3. Ritu Vyateeta Kala (Luteal Phase): Dominated by Pitta dosha.

Each woman’s menstrual cycle is influenced by her Prakriti (individual constitution), Vayah (age), Vihara (lifestyle), and environmental factors.

The primary objectives of Rtumaticharya are:

1. To regulate menstrual cycles: Ensuring timely and regular onset of menstruation.
2. To alleviate menstrual discomforts: Minimizing pain, cramping, and mood swings.
3. To maintain hormonal balance: Supporting optimal reproductive system functioning.
4. To enhance overall vitality: Promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being during and between cycles.
5. To prevent menstrual disorders: Reducing the risk of dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and amenorrhea.

Aharacharya (Dietary Guidelines)

• Avoid: Cold, heavy, and oily foods; processed foods; alcohol; caffeine; and refined sugar.
• Include Warm, light, and easily digestible foods; fresh fruits and vegetables; whole grains; and warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric.

Nidra (Sleep)

• Adequate and restful sleep is crucial for hormonal balance and overall health.

Vyayama (Exercise)

• Engage in moderate exercises like walking, yoga, or light aerobics. Strenuous activities should be avoided during menstruation.

Manasika Prasanna ( Mental and Emotional Well-being)

• Cultivate a calm and positive mindset through meditation, mindfulness, and stress-reducing techniques. 

1. Observe Chastity:
   • Avoid sexual activity during menstruation to allow the body to focus on natural cleansing and restoration.
   • Scientific Basis: Resting reproductive organs during menstruation may reduce the risk of infections or complications.
2. Avoid Daytime Sleeping:
   • Refrain from sleeping during the day.
   • Scientific Basis: Circadian rhythm disruption due to daytime sleep can affect hormonal balance.
3. Avoid Excessive Grooming:
   • Do not apply collyrium (eye cosmetics), anoint, massage, or pare nails.
   • Scientific Basis: Reducing physical activity and grooming helps preserve energy during this heightened metabolic demand.
4. Restrict Emotional Stress:
   • Avoid shedding tears, excessive laughing, or engaging in prolonged conversations.
   • Scientific Basis: Emotional fluctuations can affect hormonal levels, impacting hormonal balance and menstrual symptoms.
5. Practice Simple Living:
   • Sleep on a bed made of darbha (a sacred leafy grass) spread on the ground. Avoid ornate or luxurious bedding.
   • Scientific Basis: Simple bedding may symbolise humility and promote mindfulness, reducing mental stress.
6. Adhere to Specific Dietary Practices:
   • Consume Havisya (a meal of ghee, sali rice, and milk) or Yavaka (barley and milk) served in clay or leaf utensils.
   • Avoid Tiksna  (pungent- sharp), Katu (hot - spicy), and Lavana (salty- salty) foods.
   • Scientific Basis: These foods are cooling, nourishing, and easy to digest, aligning with Ayurvedic principles and modern dietary recommendations for menstrual health.
7. Avoid Excessive Physical Activity:
   • Refrain from fast racing, heavy exercise, or exposure to fast winds.
   • Scientific Basis: Overexertion can disrupt the body's homeostasis and increase menstrual discomfort.
8. Engage in Positive Thinking:
   • Focus on good or auspicious thoughts.
   • Scientific Basis: Positive thinking may reduce stress hormones, which can alleviate menstrual symptoms.
9. Avoid Certain Ayurvedic Therapies:
   • Refrain from Nasya (nasal therapy), Swedana (sudation or sweating therapy), and Vamana (emesis therapy).
   • Scientific Basis: These treatments may overstimulate the body and interfere with natural detoxification during menstruation.
10. Maintain Modesty and Simplicity on the Fourth Day:
    • After menstruation, cleanse the body thoroughly with a bath using medicated oils for external application, wear clean or new white garments, and adorn oneself with flowers and ornaments.
    • Scientific Basis: This marks the transition from a cleansing phase to rejuvenation, aligning with hormonal cycles and promoting psychological renewal.
11. Perform Rituals with Purity:
    • Offer prayers to Brahmanas (priests), gods, and auspicious deities like Vishnu and Skanda.
    • Scientific Basis: Rituals and prayer practices promote mindfulness, emotional calm, and spiritual well-being.

By following these practices, a woman can align her physiological state with mental and spiritual well-being through Ayurveda and modern scientific principles.

• Prepare warm, digestible foods before menstruation.
• Create a comfortable environment for rest.
• Educate and share the principles of Rajaswala Paricharya to create support and understanding.

Rest and Relaxation

• Prioritise rest and relaxation.
• Avoid strenuous activities.
• Engage in calming activities like reading or listening to soothing music.

Heat Therapy

• Apply warm compresses to the abdomen for relief from cramps.
• Take warm baths or showers.

Dietary Considerations

• Include warm, cooked foods that are easy to digest.
• Avoid cold and raw foods, which can aggravate Vata dosha.
• Consume iron-rich foods such as leafy greens, lentils, and dried fruits.

Emotional Support

• Seek support from loved ones.
• Engage in activities that promote emotional well-being.
• Avoid Exposure to Cold
• Avoid cold temperatures and drafts, which can aggravate Vata dosha.

Key Guidelines

• Laghu and Ushna bhojana (Light and warm foods)
• Guru and Sheeta ahara (Avoid cold and heavy foods).
• Ensure rest and warmth. 

Rajaswala Paricharya presents a comprehensive and empowering framework for understanding and nurturing menstrual health. Such an approach allows women to harmoniously align their physical, mental and emotional health, thus enabling a better life experience. Its importance in the modern world can’t be stressed enough, as it offers practical and effective methods of menstrual care that respect nature’s cycle. Not only does this enhance self-realization and overall health but it also makes it easier for women to experience their periods with a touch of confidence and ease.