(From Tradition to Modern Science and Ayurveda)
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Menstruation in Indian Tradition
- From Tradition to Religion and Then Modernity
- Modern Lifestyle and Growing Menstrual Disorders
- Yoga and Periods – The Scientific Perspective
- Ayurveda’s Perspective – Doshas and Menstruation
- Yoga During Periods – What to Do and What to Avoid
- Conclusion
Introduction
Menstruation is a natural and essential part of every woman’s life. It is not just a biological process but also a reflection of a woman’s overall health. In Indian tradition, women were advised to rest during their menstrual days, with special care given to their food and lifestyle.
In modern times, women continue their regular activities—work, school, fitness, or social life—even during their periods. This raises an important question: Is it safe to practice yoga during periods? Let’s explore this through the lens of tradition, modern science, and Ayurveda.
Menstruation in Indian Tradition
In ancient India, menstruating women were given three to five days of complete rest.
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- They were served light, nourishing meals such as khichdi, curd rice, and soups.
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- They refrained from entering the kitchen or temple, mainly to ensure proper rest.
This was not meant as discrimination, but rather a health measure so that women could recover physically and mentally.
👉 However, in today’s fast-paced and competitive world, it may feel difficult to slow down or take complete rest during periods. Yet, if one can manage to rest as much as possible, maintain a balanced diet, and stay emotionally calm, it can bring deep physical and mental rejuvenation—just as our ancestors intended.
From Tradition to Religion and Then Modernity
Originally, these practices were purely for health and rest. Over time, however, they took on a religious form. Women were gradually labeled as “impure” during menstruation and were excluded from cooking and religious rituals.
With the spread of education and modern science, this belief was later considered superstition. In today’s world, women actively participate in all aspects of life—work, education, sports, and social activities—just like on regular days.
Modern Lifestyle and Growing Menstrual Disorders
Today’s women multitask—managing careers, families, and personal goals all at once. But this fast-paced lifestyle has also contributed to menstrual health issues:
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- Late nights, excessive screen time, junk food, and high stress disturb hormonal balance.
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- According to WHO and ICMR, about 20–25% of young women in India suffer from PCOD/PCOS.
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- Irregular periods affect nearly 1 in 3 women today.
Yoga and Periods – The Scientific Perspective
The common question many women ask is: Is yoga safe during menstruation?
The answer is Yes—but with the right approach.
During menstruation, the body’s energy (Prana) flows downward. Intense yoga postures or inversions may interfere with this natural flow. However, gentle and restorative yoga can be extremely beneficial:
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- Reduces menstrual pain and cramps
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- Improves blood circulation and hormonal balance
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- Eases mood swings and irritability
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- Promotes relaxation and better sleep
Ayurveda’s Perspective – Doshas and Menstruation
According to Ayurveda, the body is governed by three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
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- Vata – Controls movement and flow
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- Pitta – Governs digestion and metabolism
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- Kapha – Provides stability and nourishment
During menstruation, Vata dosha plays the most important role, as it regulates the downward flow of menstrual blood (Apana Vata).
If women perform heavy activities or intense yoga, Vata may get disturbed, leading to:
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- Irregular flow
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- Severe cramps
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- Delay or disruption in cycles
That’s why Ayurveda recommends gentle, calming yoga practices during periods instead of intense workouts.
Yoga During Periods – What to Do and What to Avoid
| Recommended (Safe Asanas) | Avoid During Periods |
|---|---|
| Balasana (Child’s Pose) – Relieves back and abdominal cramps | Headstand, Shoulder Stand (Inversions) – Disrupt natural flow |
| Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclined Bound Angle Pose) – Supports pelvic area and smooth flow | Deep Backbends – Put unnecessary pressure on the body |
| Marjaryasana (Cat-Cow Pose) – Gentle spinal movement, improves circulation | High-Intensity Workouts / HIIT – Can increase fatigue and disturb Vata |
| Gentle Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist) – Eases bloating and digestion | Strong or Prolonged Twists – Compress the abdomen |
| Pranayama (Anulom Vilom, Bhramari) – Calms the mind, balances hormones | Kapalabhati or Bhastrika – Too stimulating during periods |
| Yoga Nidra & Meditation – Deep relaxation and restful sleep | Heavy weight training / jumping – Strains the body and disturbs energy flow |
Conclusion
Menstruation is a natural process and a sign of good health. In ancient India, women were given rest during this time to restore their strength. Over centuries, this practice turned into a religious belief where women were labeled as “impure.” In modern times, it was seen as superstition, and women started participating in all activities without restriction.
The balanced truth is—yoga during periods is absolutely safe and beneficial, provided it includes gentle, restorative postures, pranayama, and meditation.
These practices not only reduce pain and discomfort but also improve hormonal balance and emotional well-being.
So, instead of avoiding yoga completely, women should listen to their bodies and choose light, soothing practices that align with the natural flow of energy.
