Ayurveda is described as a way of life. It is not just a medical science to treat disease conditions. The Ayurveda samhitas are replete with information about the best way of doing several day-to-day activities.
For example: Dinacharya (best practices to be followed during the day), Ritucharya (best practices in different seasons). Similarly, the Ayurveda books explain in detail Rutumati charya- the best practices for women during their periods.
Rutumati is the term used for women having menstrual cycles. A menstrual cycle is considered as a Shodhana process, a cleansing or Monthly mini detoxification. Agni or the digestive fire is low.
There many be changes in the bowel movements like constipation or loose stools. Bloating and acidity also may be felt during the periods.
Aahaara or diet guidelines during periods:
• Foods recommended: Barley, soups, easy to digest vegetables like ash gourd, ridge gourd, bottle gourd, snake gourd, little gourd, green beans, okra, Malabar spinach, Methi leaves, moringa leaves, dill leaves, green gram, tender coconut water, yelakki banana, sweet apples, melons, indirect sugars like fresh or dried dates, gourd vegetables, lightly sweetened dark chocolate, cow’s ghee, buttermilk (can add jaljeera, jeera powder and black salt)
• Spices useful during period- Jeera, Dhaniya seeds, Ajwain, fresh ginger, Somph/fennel
• Nuts & dry fruits: Almonds, walnuts, figs, dates, raisins (soaked in small quantity)
Foods to avoid during period:
Teekshna (sharpness- eg. Mustard, pepper, dry ginger etc
Katu (Spicy- eg. Chillies), Lavana (salty)
Heavy and rich foods also to be avoided- like bread, biscuits, cakes, ice creams, cheese, cream, khova, butter
Others: Potato, white chana, Rajma, pickles, Tamarind, salty foods like chips, deep fried foods, curd, mango, jack fruit, salads (lightly grilled is OK), aerated drinks, maida, high fat foods, canned juices, alcohol, caffeine, cashew, pista
Vihaara/Lifestyle advice during period
Rest
Avoid Abhyanga
Avoid intercourse
Avoid Day sleep
Take care of emotional health
Plan light work- avoid intense physical and mental work
Get more silent time: too much talking/listening can increase vatha dosha and tire the senses
Avoid multi-tasking
Ayurveda recommends avoiding exercise during period and suggests regular exercise and movement during the other days of the month
Following Rutumati charya can help reduce discomfort and help women to feel mor energetic and relaxed.