Menopause as a Sacred Passage: Rituals & Remedies from Ayurveda

Supporting Body, Mind & Spirit Through the Wisdom of Ayurveda

Menopause is a profound transition—a natural evolution in a woman’s life. Far beyond hormonal shifts, it is a gateway into a new phase of creativity, wisdom, and spiritual expansion. Through the lens of Ayurveda, this passage can be supported with intention, grace, and plant-based rituals.

Understanding the Menstrual-to-Menopause Journey

To truly embrace menopause, we must first understand the full arc of our menstrual life cycle. Each month, the dynamic interplay of estrogen and progesterone guides not only our fertility but also our energetic rhythm. Biologically, these hormones are responsible for ovulation. Energetically, they are tied to Svadhisthana, the sacral chakra, the seat of creativity and sensuality.

Over time, the ovaries gradually slow hormone production. When ovulation ceases, we enter menopause—a shift governed by LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). These hormones are secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain and energetically linked to the third eye (Ajna) and crown (Sahasrara) chakras—centers of insight, clarity, and spiritual connection.

Menopause: A New Feminine Archetype

Ayurveda views menopause not as an end, but as a sacred rebirth. This is the time when a woman becomes the Wise Woman—one who has lived through cycles of transformation and carries deep intuitive knowledge. Creativity can flourish, offering space to write, teach, lead, or reinvent. It is a season of renewal, purpose, and empowerment.

While the process can be physically and emotionally challenging, there are gentle, natural ways to ease the transition and bring balance back to the body.

Natural Support for Menopause: Ayurveda-Inspired Tools

1. Essential Oils for Hormonal Balance and Emotional Ease

Essential oils are powerful allies for navigating menopause. Here are a few key options:

• Peppermint: Cools hot flashes and brings immediate relief to heat and irritation.

• Basil: Supports estrogen balance.

• Clary Sage: Regulates hormonal fluctuations, promotes calm, and eases mood swings.

• Geranium: Uplifts mood and balances both hormones and emotions.

• Citrus oils (orange, grapefruit, bergamot): Spark vitality and help uplift libido.

How to use: Dilute in a carrier oil like sweet almond or coconut. Apply to pulse points, or create a cooling spray:

DIY Cooling Spray for Hot Flashes:

• 1 oz witch hazel

• 1 drop peppermint oil

• 2 drops clary sage

• 2 drops geranium
  Mix in a glass spray bottle and mist as needed.

2. Yoga: Cooling Postures for Inner Calm

Certain yoga poses help regulate the nervous system and bring cooling energy to the body:

• Balasana (Child’s Pose)

• Uttanasana (Standing Forward Fold)

• Janu Sirsasana (Head-to-Knee Pose)

These postures soothe the mind, cool excess heat, and create a sense of inner peace. Practicing regularly supports emotional balance and physical comfort.

3. Breathwork: Pranayama for Temperature and Mood Regulation

Sitali Pranayama (Cooling Breath) is a simple and effective technique for managing hot flashes and anxiety.

How to practice:

• Curl your tongue into a “U” shape (or place the tip of the tongue behind the teeth if unable).

• Inhale through the curled tongue.

• Exhale through the nose.

Repeat for a few minutes daily to promote balance and calm.

4. Herbal Support for Menopause

Ayurvedic and Western herbs can gently support this life phase:

• Shatavari: A deeply nourishing adaptogen that supports estrogen balance and female vitality.

• Clary Sage (herb or essential oil): Regulates hormonal levels and reduces heat.

• Valerian Root: Calms the nervous system and promotes restful sleep.

• St. John’s Wort: Supports mood stability and eases emotional fluctuations.

Enjoy these herbs as tinctures or infusions, depending on availability and preference.

Embracing the Transition

Menopause is not a decline, but a shift toward clarity, intuition, and embodiment. By integrating Ayurvedic practices—through plants, rituals, movement, and breath—we support not only our physical health but our emotional and spiritual growth as well.

Allow yourself grace, patience, and reverence for this sacred transformation. There is no rush, only rhythm.