The
Five Elements in Oriental Medicine
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Menstrual irregularities, menstrual pain, endometriosis,
PMS, low libido, fertility, pregnancy support, morning sickness,
threatened miscarriage, turning breech babies, inducing
overdue labour, postnatal support, uterine prolapse, vaginal
discharge, menopausal support
Oriental medicine understands the cycles within women's
lives. One cycle is identified as the cycle of seven and
according to this cycle a woman should begin her menstrual
cycle around the age of 14 years and complete menstruation,
enter menopause, around 49 years of age. The other major
cycle is the lunar cycle that can be viewed in terms of
yin and yang. Yin corresponds to the female energy of receptivity
and to the quiet energy of the new moon that corresponds
to ovulation, the most receptive time of the month when
conception is possible. Yang corresponds to the dynamic
energy of the full moon, a time of abundant activity. At
this time energy has gathered internally as well as externally
and when this energy flows appropriately so the menstrual
blood will flow without incidence. With the gathering of
so much energy, however, there is the possibility of inappropriate
movement that results in many of the menstrual problems
that we now consider to be a "normal" part our
monthly cycle. Just because it has become the norm does
not mean that it is a normal or a healthy way to be. Oriental
medicine can help bring us back into harmony with the natural
cycles of life and once the menstrual cycle is regulated
many other cycles of life fall into place more easily including
fertility or natural contraception.
It is recognised in Oriental philosophies that life begins
with conception. Health arises from supporting, in a natural
way, the processes of conception and foetal development.
Oriental medicine sees the development of the foetus as
occurring over a period of 10 lunar months and treatment
can help alleviate many of the problems that arise over
this time including morning sickness. A treatment at 12
and 24 weeks is also important to keep mother and baby strong
and healthy if no other health problems arise. There are
also techniques used to turn breech babies and to encourage
overdue deliveries. Post partum support is important for
both mother and child particularly if the labour required
any form of western medical intervention.
To read the full Cycles of Life article,
click here to download the pdf.
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