A workshop that offers a conscious & holistic understanding of the menstrual cycle, inspiration from devotional feminine wisdoms and Yogic- Ayurvedic- somatic health solutions.
Our modern perspective of the menstrual cycle is based on a reductionist view of the body, that is to say our bodies are inter-related lumps of clay going about their business. What does this mean for women’s self- esteem when our reproductive experiences are reduced to functional biology or when our bodies betray us through painful bleeds and turbulent PMT? Is the female body naturally flawed? Would the only options for menstrual well- being be synthetic hormones, medicines or surgery? How might the shaming and passing off of hormonal challenges affect relationships, intimacy with partners and attitudes towards women and mothers?
Pre- colonial traditions across the globe speak about the menstrual cycle as a creative, bio- energetic pattern that tallies with moon and earth rhythms. The menstrual cycle represents growth, decay and evolution that essentially pertains to everyone: children, adults, animals, insects and fauna. Its visibility marks the wisdom to integrate polarities; heaven and earth, pain and bliss, vulnerability and joy. Its feminine cyclical nature offers a way to mitigate against burn out and aggression by allowing for release and rebirth.
Menstruating women can access multiple attributes and resources through the month to support their health and well- being. Non menstruating women, individuals and men can connect to the shifting textures of the feminine cycle to support a deeper nurturing awareness of their body-mind needs.
What does this workshop offer?
We will explore, learn about and focus on
- The normality of flux and change in the body-mind and the benefits of tallying this up with the Gaia- lunar cycle through menstrual ‘seasons’ and feminine archetypes. Living more consciously with this pattern supports the somatic- spiritual wellbeing of everyone.
- Understanding how systemic -intrapersonal stress, in particular from modern day capitalist grind culture negatively impacts the female body and rhythm of female sex hormones (the interplay of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone).
- Supporting radical self –love and celebrating the feminine in the body through sensual self –care. Restoring balance and well-being by reversing cultural and historical scripts that have oppressed or controlled the female body, sexuality and genitalia.
There will story- telling, practical info sharing as well as demonstration of certain massage, yoga and somatic techniques that support health and wellbeing.
Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is open to female bodied women and individuals in all reproductive diversity, of any sexual orientation, including those who have had hysterectomies. For non- binary, trans and gender non- conforming individuals who feel that the content of this workshop reflects their experience and needs.
Of particular relevance to those who experience difficult menstruation, PMT or PCOS, women coming off the pill or transitioning through to menopause. |
