16: Unlocking the Secrets of Women’s Health: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Challenges with Adena Rose Bright

Today, I am excited to have Adena from Adena Rose Ayurveda with me on the podcast. Adena is a women's health Ayurveda practitioner with 15 years of experience at the AyurvedicCenter of Vermont, where she once served as one of my Panchakarma therapists. As an Ayurvedic practitioner, Adena works primarily in reproductive health, doing hands-on work, including Maya abdominal therapy and Ayurvedic therapies, to support women through various life stages, overcome fertility issues, and help them heal painful and irregular menstrual cycles. Adena loves sharing vital self-healing tools to empower women. In this episode, she dives into the most effective and recommended tools. We also explore the practice of vaginal steaming and how to do it.Join us for her years of clinical experience as Adena shares her insights on women's health.FertilityAdena believes women must ensure that the soil, or conditions for fertility, are optimal. Her approach fosters a deeper understanding of physical signals, guiding women to reclaim their health and well-being through Ayurveda.Monitoring FertilityCervical Fluid: Recognizing changes in cervical fluid can help identify the fertile window without invasive measures.Basal Body Temperature: Tracking temperature changes can indicate ovulation phases to clarify fertility status.Cervical Examination: For those comfortable with it, feeling the cervix can offer insights into ovulation.These methods can help women gain a more intimate understanding of their bodies without relying on ovulation kits.Ayurvedic Perspective on Ovulation IssuesBy assessing digestion and menstrual patterns, practitioners can identify underlying dosha-related issues affecting ovulation. Adena explains that the symptoms of not ovulating can vary widely, from irregular cycles to different bleeding patterns, all of which can link to specific dosha imbalances.Navigating Fertility PathsMany clients seek out alternative methods after being disappointed with conventional treatments. Some approach Adena before starting their fertility journey, while others go to her after trying IVF or other medical interventions. Adena highlights the importance of conscious conception, where couples prepare their bodies and balance doshas before attempting to conceive.Perimenopause and Menopause InsightsWomen in their 40s may experience hot flashes, irregular periods, and heightened anxiety. Adena explains that those symptoms often reflect dosha imbalances, which can manifest as increased sensitivity. She acknowledges the cyclical nature of female health, highlighting the importance of self-awareness during life transitions.Ayurvedic Self-Care Practices for WomenAbhyanga: Daily self-massage with warm oil to promote relaxation and balance.Pranayama: Breathing techniques that help connect the breath and nervous system, including NadiShodhana (alternate nostril breathing).Nourishing Herbal Infusions: Using herbs like nettles and red clover to provide essential nutrients is particularly beneficial for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.Herbal Infusions Herbal infusions involve soaking herbs in hot water for an extended period (8-12 hours) to maximize the extraction of iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. You can include the Ayurvedic herbs, Shatavari, and ashwagandha, but Western herbs like nettle, rose, and tulsi are usually more accessible.HydrationIn Ayurveda, hydration is fundamental for health. Adena recommends starting the day with a glass of warm water with lemon to stimulate digestion and detoxification. Drinking warm or room-temperature