In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the state of our blood is intrinsically tied to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Blood, as viewed in TCM, does more than nourish the body. It grounds us, fosters a sense of rootedness, and provides the strength to assert our boundaries. When blood is deficient, the repercussions ripple through every layer of our being, making it challenging to feel centered, confident, or resilient.

Why is Xuè important to a healthy menstrual cycle?

Xuè or Blood in Traditional Chinese Medicine holds a foundational role in ensuring a healthy and harmonious menstrual cycle. Its significance lies in its nourishing essence and its dynamic relationship with qi, the organs, and the reproductive system.

The Role of Blood in Menstrual Health

1. Nourishment and Regulation

Blood in TCM is deeply connected to the health of the uterus and menstrual cycles. There are two energy chanenls within Chinese medicine that are important to know: the Chong Mai (Penetrating Vessel) serves as a reservoir, storing and distributing blood needed for menstruation and pregnancy. It works in tandem with the Ren Mai (Conception Vessel), which governs menstrual timing and fertility. Together, they create a balanced foundation for reproductive health.

2. The Bond Between Blood and Qi

Blood and qi share an intimate relationship: blood nourishes qi, and qi moves blood. When blood is deficient, symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and irregular periods may surface. On the other hand, heat or stagnation in the blood can cause heavy bleeding or shortened cycles, disrupting the natural rhythm of the body.

3. The Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

Each phase of the menstrual cycle aligns with the yin-yang transformation. Blood nourishes the yin phase, essential for building the endometrium and supporting ovulation. By ensuring a robust blood supply, the body creates the foundation for potential conception and a smooth cycle.

What is Blood Deficiency in TCM?

Blood Deficiency refers to a state where the blood lacks the vitality or volume necessary to nourish the body adequately. This condition often manifests as:

Fatigue
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Paleness (skin, nails, or lips)
Dry skin or hair
Anxiety or difficulty sleeping
Emotional aspects: Since the heart governs blood in TCM, imbalances can cause emotional sensitivity, low capacity for stress, overwhelm, instability, memory issues, and restlessness. Stress further disrupts this balance, often amplifying menstrual challenges.

From a TCM perspective, Blood nourishes the Heart and anchors the Shen (your spirit). When Blood is abundant and flowing harmoniously, it creates a foundation for emotional stability, mental clarity, and the ability to uphold healthy boundaries.

Boundaries Begin Within

Boundaries, both physical and emotional, are a direct reflection of our internal state. Just as a riverbank keeps water contained and flowing, our inner vitality acts as the structure that defines our emotional edges. Without sufficient nourishment—like a river drying out—the structure of our boundaries begins to waver.

Blood Deficiency can weaken our capacity to:

Feel Grounded: Without the rooting energy of Blood, it's easy to feel scattered or unanchored, making us susceptible to external pressures or influences.
Stand in Our Power: Blood provides the body with strength and resilience. Deficiency can leave us feeling depleted, making it harder to assert ourselves.
Stay Emotionally Balanced: The Heart and Liver rely on Blood to process emotions smoothly. A deficiency can lead to heightened sensitivity, mood swings, or an inability to advocate for our needs.

Embracing Nourishment

Nourishing blood is a holistic approach that requires tending to our emotional and spiritual body, in addition to our physical. In TCM, this often includes:

Dietary Support: Consuming blood-nourishing foods like beets, dark leafy greens, organ meats, black sesame seeds, and goji berries.
Herbal Remedies: Herbs such as Dang Gui, and Gou Qi Zi (goji berries), Long Yan Rou (dried longan fruit) are traditionally used to rebuild Blood.
Rest and Restoration: Overwork, lack of rest, too much time on your phone or computer can deplete Blood. Honoring the body's need for downtime is crucial for replenishment.
Acupressure and Acupuncture: Points like Ren 3 and 4, Spleen 6m and Liver 3 support Blood production and circulation while soothing emotional tension.
Somatic Mindfulness & Practice: Developing a somatic mindfulness practice, in addition to working with a somatic practitioner can be highly beneficial at feeling into and transforming energy in your mental, emotional and etheric body.

Reclaiming Your Boundaries

Rebuilding healthy boundaries starts with nourishing the body and spirit. Here are TCM-inspired practices to strengthen your sense of self:

Create Daily Rituals: Establish grounding practices like meditation, journaling, or qi gong to anchor yourself in your body.
Embrace Restorative Activities: Qi Gong, Yin yoga, warm baths, and slow walks in nature can replenish your energy and promote inner calm.
Practice Saying No & Holding Boundary: Start small by identifying situations where you feel overextended and give yourself permission to say no.
Build a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with people and environments that respect and support your boundaries.
Activate Your Voice: Using your voice is a power. Practice speaking in front of a mirror, or with a close and supportive friend who can witness you speaking up in your truth.

Be Like Water, Soft Yet Strong

Healing Blood Deficiency and fortifying your boundaries is not just about "doing" more. It is like being like Water. Water flows, it is soft on the skin, yet strong and forceful when abundant.

Allow yourself to cultivate a deeper relationship with yourself through your blood.

Know that your blood is sacred.

Prioritize your nourishment & self-compassion.

Your body is your temple. How will you nourish your inner sanctuary today?

Share your thoughts in the comments or connect with us on social media at @areturntoyin.

If you’re curious to learn more about living in tune with the body’s rhythms, stay tuned for the Monthly Mystic newsletter, be sure to subscribe to the Substack for more insights on Traditional Chinese Medicine, wellness practices, and spiritual growth. Click here to learn more!

For a FREE resource on Chinese Medicine Mental Wellness & Meditation, I created an eBook all about this. Click here to learn more!

Many thanks & blessings forward,

Linh

Lack of Boundaries or Blood Deficiency? How Most Women Are Blood Deficient & How It Affects You