Yoga originates from the Sanskrit term ‘yuj’, which signifies the act of uniting, connecting, or harnessing together. It involves focusing one’s mind and employing it in a concentrated manner. In simple terms yoga means union of mind and body.
Since this book is intended primarily for women, let’s consider the three important stages in a woman’s life:
1.Menstruation
2.Pregnancy and Delivery
3.Menopause
Menstruation :
When a girl grows up, her body starts to develop in ways that allow her to take on adult responsibilities. During the teen years, known as adolescence, she goes through a lot of growth. This time is a big change from being a child to becoming an adult. It’s when her ovaries, which are the parts of her body that can make babies, begin to work every month. Around this time, from about age ten to fifteen, her body gets ready to possibly have a baby each month. This is why she starts having periods, where her body releases an egg, and if it’s not fertilized, she sheds blood and tissue from her womb. This process is a natural part of growing up and happens to every woman.
- Hormonal Regulation: The pituitary gland at the base of the brain, which is divided into anterior and posterior sections, secretes hormones that regulate the function of the ovaries.
- Ovarian Function: The ovaries are the main female sex organs, positioned at the sides of the uterus. They produce female sex cells, or ova, with one of these cells maturing each month during a woman’s reproductive years.
- Ovulation: The maturation process of the ova begins between the ages of ten and fifteen and continues until the mid-forties to late fifties. Each month, one of the ovaries releases an ovum, or egg, which becomes ready to be fertilized.
- Menstrual Cycle: If the ovum is not fertilized, the lining of the uterus, which has thickened in preparation to nourish a potential embryo, is not needed. The uterus sheds this lining, which is expelled from the body through the vagina as menstrual blood.
A healthy menstruation relies on the ovaries working correctly, and this depends on the health of the pituitary gland. The regularity of the menstrual cycle is also influenced by the hypothalamus, which regulates the activity of other glands. As a girl transitions into womanhood, Yogasanas and pranayama practices can be very helpful. Inverted postures and backbends can stimulate the pituitary gland, while forward bends are beneficial for increasing blood flow to the pelvic area.
Pregnancy and Delivery :
Maintaining physical and mental health is crucial for a pregnant woman, not just for herself but also for her baby’s well-being. Practicing yoga during pregnancy can help manage weight, keep joints flexible, and stretches and strengthen muscles. It also improves breathing, which can help deal with common pregnancy-related issues and support the childbirth process. As pregnancy progresses, a woman may experience back pain, swelling in the feet, pelvic pain, emotional fluctuations, high blood pressure, and delivery apprehension. Regular yoga can address these concerns and also build the mental and physical resilience needed for delivery.
It’s very important to remember that before you begin any physical exercise—whether it’s yoga, swimming, or walking—please make sure to consult your doctor to confirm if it’s safe for you. Not everyone’s body is the same; some women may be strong while others might have certain health considerations, and some may be experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. Never start any exercise regimen without getting the green light from your healthcare provide.
Menopause
Yoga plays a crucial role in a woman’s life, particularly during menopause. I’ve seen firsthand how the practice provides relief from common symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and irregular periods through gentle stretches and mindful breathing. By nurturing balance in the body and mind, yoga naturally eases the discomforts of menopause, reducing the physical and emotional turmoil. It allows women to harmonize their hormonal rhythms, fostering a smoother and more empowering transition through this life phase.