31. Ayurvedic Secrets for a Healthy Menstrual Cycle: Embrace Your Natural Rhythm

In this solo episode, Kate O’Donnell opens the conversation on periods from an Ayurvedic lens, inviting listeners to sync their menstrual health with the rhythms of the moon and the wisdom of nature. This is the first of a two-part masterclass exploring the monthly cycle through the three doshas — Vata, Kapha, and Pitta — and how to bring harmony to each phase. Kate walks us through practical ways to nourish our bodies during menstruation with warm, moist foods, restorative movement, and subtle lifestyle shifts. You’ll learn how small changes — like avoiding artificial light after 10 PM or choosing period panties over tampons — can have a profound effect on your energy, digestion, mood, and menstrual flow. Whether you’re experiencing PMS, navigating your first period, or supporting someone who bleeds, this episode offers tools to honor the body’s intelligence, instead of overriding it. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How Ayurveda explains each phase of the menstrual cycle What to eat (and what to avoid) to support downward flow Why moon bathing helps regulate ovulation The role of natural light in hormonal balance Ayurvedic movement practices during your bleed How to reduce bloating, cramps, and irritability naturally Why you should always sit down to eat during your period The emotional and spiritual wisdom of resting more Relevant Links: Ayurvedic Living Institute: Women’s Health Courses Kate’s Lunar Yoga Practice Kate’s book Everyday Ayurveda for Women’s Health Next Episode: Stay tuned for Part 2 of this menstrual masterclass, where Kate dives into imbalances — like pain, irregularity, and intense PMS — and how to address them through Ayurvedic lifestyle shifts. Health Disclaimer: The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine. Mentioned in this episode: Ayurvedic Living Insitute: Women's Health Courses https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/courses Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org Ayurvedic Living Institute Membership: https://ayurvedicliving.institute/membership Cleanse Leader Training: https://ayurvedicliving.institute/cleanse-leader-training Deep Winter Self-Care Workshop: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/courses/self-care-workshop-deep-winter Women's Health Collection: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/womens-healthhttps://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/products/courses/copy-of-fall-community-cleanse-2024 Gift Guide: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/products/digital_downloads/gift-guide