In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it’s believed that women go through life cycles every seven years. These cycles, known as ‘Qi cycles’, encompass different developmental stages and health concerns throughout a woman’s life. Each cycle highlights unique characteristics and offers specific health and wellness advice. Here is an overview of each phase:
0-7 years: At this stage, known as the “First Cycle,” the kidney Qi is thriving. This flourishing Qi contributes to the growth of primary teeth and the thickening of hair.
Wellness Tip: If by the age of seven or eight, a child hasn’t shed their baby teeth, it may be due to a deficiency in kidney Qi. It’s vital to ensure sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, ample exercise, sun exposure, and avoiding hormone-rich foods to prevent early maturation.
7-14 years: The “Second Cycle” sees the initiation of a girl’s reproductive capabilities. The Ren meridian becomes unobstructed, and menstrual cycles commence, marking the beginning of fertility.
Wellness Tip: Starting from puberty, it’s essential to stay warm and avoid cold drinks. As women’s health relies on their blood, which can clot in cold conditions, not adhering to this can lead to health issues like painful periods and other menstrual disorders.
14-21 years: During the “Third Cycle,” the kidney Qi is balanced, leading to the growth of wisdom teeth, the final set to develop in one’s lifetime.
Wellness Tip: The growth of teeth is governed by the kidney Qi. If it’s insufficient, wisdom teeth might not fully develop. Amid academic stresses and potential acne outbreaks, it’s crucial to care for the kidney Qi, engage in moderate exercise, manage stress, and limit the use of cosmetics with harsh chemicals
21-28 years: The “Fourth Cycle” represents the peak of physical development and reproductive potential in women. Especially around the age of 28, the kidney Qi is at its zenith, making it an ideal time for childbirth. Observations in gynaecology also show that the likelihood of conception is highest between the ages of 26 and 30.
Wellness Tip: This period, being the prime reproductive years, requires women to nurture their bodies, consume a nourishing diet, maintain high energy levels, and ensure overall wellbeing. Amidst the dual pressures of career and motherhood, it’s essential to strike a work-life balance to prevent Yin-Yang imbalances.
28-35 years: The “Fifth Cycle” is when the Yang Ming meridian begins to wane, causing facial pallor, muscle slackening around the mouth, and hair thinning.
Wellness Tip: Post 35, it’s essential for women to indulge in self-care. Signs of ageing, like a yellowing complexion and softening muscles, become evident. Focus on balancing Yin and Yang, ensuring smooth Qi and blood flow, maintaining mental and physical health, for a holistic wellness approach.
35-42 years: In the “Sixth Cycle,” the three Yang meridians that traverse the face weaken, resulting in a yellowing complexion and greying hair.
Wellness Tip: As signs of ageing intensify, wrinkles become more pronounced, and some women might experience symptoms of menopause. Emphasis should be on dietary nourishment, sufficient sleep, emotional well-being, and moisturising and anti-ageing skincare routines.
42-49 years and beyond: The “Seventh Cycle” marks the onset of menopause. The kidney Qi dwindles, the Ren meridian weakens, and the Tian Gui, responsible for female fertility, concludes its mission. Consequently, menstruation ceases, and women lose their reproductive capabilities.
Wellness Tip: This phase, synonymous with menopausal symptoms like anxiety, hot flushes, dizziness, and even palpitations, is critical. Many ailments that have been latent might emerge during this period. Hence, nurturing Qi and blood, balancing Yin and Yang, and focusing on overall health can help navigate menopause with ease.
Note: The provided insights are based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and might differ from modern medical theories. Always consult with healthcare professionals when making health-related decisions.