Gut Health and Spleen Qi - How it Supports Fertility

Have you heard of Qi Deficiency? In Chinese Medicine Qi is the most fundamental substance in the body and in the Universe. It means ‘energy’.

In the body and in physiological terms  this means ATP – the energy currency of the body and what fuels muscles contraction. We make ATP in the mitochondria of the muscles from carbohydrates and fats (usually) using oxygen.

So in Chinese Medicine, the Spleen breaks down the food and turns it into Qi which provides our muscles, tissues and organs with energy. When someone is Spleen Qi deficient, they feel tired easily, they lack energy for muscle contraction and brain activity and they often suffer from fatigue, anxiety and overthinking.

Spleen Qi Deficiency is a particularly common diagnosis in Chinese Medicine.

In Chinese medicine we use tongue diagnosis as a means to assess deficiencies or blockages in the body. Have a look at your tongue. If it is swollen, pale and has toothmarks around the edges, you have Spleen Qi Deficiency.

How does the Spleen affect fertility?

·   The Spleen supports gut health, which in turn can contribute to PCOS and implantation issues.

·       The Spleen is closely related to the immune system. When the immune system is not working optimally, inflammation can occur. This can affect implantation, contribute to hormonal imbalances such as in PCOS, decrease progesterone and be a factor in recurrent miscarriage.

·       A healthy gut microbiome in Western medicine is very important for optimal fertility. This corresponds to strengthened Spleen Qi in Chinese Medicine.

·       The Spleen is associated with Qi and Yang which rise after ovulation in the second half of the menstrual cycle, the luteal phase. In acupuncture, we strengthen the Spleen Qi in the luteal phase to support implantation.

Gut Microbiome and Fertility Hormones:

·       The gut produces enzymes that metabolise hormones, ensuring the correct balance of fertility hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone. If the gut includes high levels of bacteria, it can cause an increase in the production of enzymes which disrupt the metabolism of oestrogen leading to high levels. When oestrogen is high, this causes blood stasis (in Chinese Medicine) which leads to blockages of blood, negatively affecting implantation.

·       When the Spleen Qi is deficient, it can cause imbalances in the gut microbiome, which causes toxins and bacteria triggering an inflammatory response.

·       This chronic inflammation can play a part in PCOS and endometriosis, which are also often associated with high levels of oestrogen and an imbalance of hormones affecting ovulation.

What is the relevance of the Solar Plexus?

·       The Solar Plexus chakra in Reiki theory, is located in the mid section of the abdomen and involves the Spleen.

·       To heal the gut microbiome and strengthen the Spleen, it is also important to consider the Solar Plexus energy and whether it is in balance.

·       The emotions associated with the solar plexus are: power, strength, creativity, trust and leadership.

Emotional Healing for the Solar Plexus and Spleen:

·       Do you feel in control of your fertility journey?

·       Where do you feel powerless in your life and when was the first time you felt this way?

·       How can you bring more creativity and fun into your life?

·       Do you trust your body?

Spleen Qi Deficiency and Solar Plexus Symptoms:

·       Digestive issues

·       Tiredness

·       Anxiety, worry

·       Overthinking

·       Powerlessness

However when the solar plexus is open you are self-confident, a good leader, empowered with strong digestion and lots of energy.

Fertility Symptoms:

·       Hormonal imbalances

·       PCOS

·       Implantation issues

·       IVF failure

·       Low progesterone

·       High oestrogen

How Can you Promote a Healthy Gut?

1.      Turmeric

2.      Fibre rich fruits and vegetables – berries, leafy greens, broccoli

3.      Probiotics

4.      Omega 3 fatty acids – salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds and flaxseeds

5.      Quinoa, oats, brown rice

6.      Plant based proteins such as tofu, chickpeas

Connection with Spirituality and Astrology:

The solar plexus chakra is associated with the element earth governed by the sun and the colour yellow. It relates to empowerment, leadership, creativity and inner child joy.

The archangels associated with the solar plexus chakra are Archangel Uriel and Lady Aurora. Yellow crystals, such as Citrine support the solar plexus chakra. Support your solar plexus chakra with the ‘solar plexus meditation’ available when you book an acupuncture session, spending time in the sun and undertaking creative tasks and doing things you love.

Why balancing your solar plexus is beneficial for fertility?

·       It supports the Spleen Qi and implantation

·       It improves gut health

·       It improves hormonal regulation, including oestrogen and progesterone.

·       It raises your vibration so you feel healthier and happier.

Have a great week!

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