For more than three decades, a captivating notion acquired during my inaugural year at naturopathic school has consistently lingered in my thoughts. It was during my initiation into the realm of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that the concept of "Pernicious Outside Influences" was unveiled. This intriguing facet of Chinese medicine delineates the infiltration of the body by external malevolent forces. This particular voyage of contemplation resurrects a memory of a cautionary whisper—advising against cold water immersion during menstruation. After the passage of over thirty years, I find myself irresistibly drawn back to this very notion. My intention is not solely to gain a deeper comprehension rooted in TCM principles, but also to juxtapose it with the perspective of modern medicine, thus illuminating this enduring concept from dual perspectives.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the menstrual cycle is considered an important aspect of a woman's overall health and balance. TCM views the body as a system of interconnected energies, with the goal of maintaining harmony and balance between these energies. While TCM doesn't directly address exposure to cold during the menstrual cycle in the same way that modern medicine does, there are some concepts that could be relevant:
Qi and Blood Flow: In TCM, maintaining the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and Blood is essential for overall health. Cold is often considered to slow down Qi and Blood circulation. Cold exposure during the menstrual cycle might potentially disrupt the natural flow of Qi and Blood, which could lead to stagnation and discomfort.
Yang and Yin Balance: TCM often talks about the balance between Yin (cool, nourishing, and restorative) and Yang (warm, active, and energizing) energies. Menstruation is seen as a time when a woman's body is in a more Yin state. Excessive cold exposure could potentially disrupt this Yin state and affect the balance of energies.
Vasodilation and Constriction: In TCM, proper circulation of Qi and Blood is crucial. Cold exposure could potentially cause vasoconstriction, which might interfere with the smooth flow of Qi and Blood.
Constitution: TCM takes into account an individual's constitution and how it interacts with the environment. Some people might naturally have a more Yang constitution and could tolerate cold exposure better than those with a more Yin constitution.
From a Western and modern perspective, the decision of whether or not to cold plunge during menstruation is a personal one and can vary based on individual preferences and comfort levels. However, there are a few factors to consider:
Temperature Regulation: Cold exposure can potentially impact the body's temperature regulation, and some individuals may be more sensitive during menstruation. Me
nstrual cramps or discomfort might be exacerbated by sudden exposure to cold water.
Immune System: Cold exposure could, in some cases, potentially affect the immune system. During menstruation, the body's immune system might be slightly weaker, and cold-water exposure might pose a higher risk of lowering resistance to infections. Honestly, the empirical research is still debating this.
Vasoconstriction: Cold water exposure can cause vasoconstriction, where blood vessels narrow. Some people worry that this could interfere with the natural flow of menstrual blood or cause discomfort.
Discomfort: Menstrual cramps, bloating, and other discomforts are common during menstruation. Cold water immersion might intensify these discomforts for some individuals.
It's important to note that the above points are general considerations and may not apply to every woman. Some women might find cold plunging during menstruation to be invigorating and helpful for managing symptoms. If a woman is considering cold plunging during her period, it's a good idea for her to listen to her body, start with shorter durations, and pay attention to how her body responds.
If you are interested in integrating TCM principles into your lifestyle, including during your menstrual cycle, it's advisable to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner who can provide personalized guidance based on their individual health and constitution. Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual comfort, health, and personal preferences. Although I am not licensed in TCM, I’d be happy to chat about your questions and concerns and refer you to a licensed practitioner as desired.
Enjoy and cheers to cold plunging!
