“The stress of infertility is significant and comparable to a recent cancer diagnosis” (link 1)
That’s intense! From first-hand experience I know; life has a way of throwing us curve balls and challenging our beliefs and dreams. This can lead to severe disappointment, grief and sadness and a level of stress that has detrimental effects on our minds and bodies.
Struggling to conceive or fall pregnant has been linked to high levels of stress and cortisol levels which is a negative feedback loop. The higher the stress levels of daily living, the lower the chances of falling pregnant. After which, delayed conception causes more stress and anxiety, which feeds the negative feedback loop. “ Stress and elevated glucocorticoids can also inhibit reproduction..” (link 2). This also basically implies that high cortisol levels creates a hormonal imbalance.
Reproduction is a basic human ‘need’ and function, but when under stress or threat, the physiological response to elevated cortisol levels means the shutting down of less crucial functions. One of those is reproduction, leaving couples angry and women disappointed in their bodies. Unfortunately, to crown it all, low libido and lack of sexual activity, is another manifestation of stress
Can you see where this is going? It can be an endless loop, one thing feeding the other and the result, frustration, and other health problems, not to even mention the toll it takes on a mental level.
The good news is though, that yoga gives us a way to do reduce stress and to break this negative feedback loop. We can not always prevent stressful situations, we can learn how to cope with them in a healthier way. A 2010 research review (link 3) suggests that yoga is an effective method of regulating the sympathetic nervous system. Even more so than regular exercise. Yoga also seeks to foster a state of mind/body harmony, it can empower practitioners with techniques for coping with daily stressors.
Research has shown over and over again how mindfulness practices and yoga can reduce the stress hormone while balancing the effect of the hormones on the body. It has also shown that anxiety levels were significantly lower after a structured 6 weeks yoga intervention in patients with infertility. (link 3)
While the medical profession views yoga as helpful for fertility primarily because it reduces stress, yogis see much broader benefits. It balances hormones, opens the hip and pelvic areas, and improves the flow of energy through the body.
Benefits of yoga for fertility includes;
- Stimulate circulation and blood flow
- Massage internal organs
- Helps to regulate gynecological function
- Decrease stress
- Balance hormones
- Release mental and emotional tension
- Reduce anxiety and depression
The journey of trying to conceive is not an easy road and it can feel lonely and long. Yoga can be a source of support while stimulating the reproductive system and balancing hormones. Find solace in yourself. Reconnect with your body, your mind and your creative center. Open and softening into the process of discovering and surrendering.
And I am here to guide you so that you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. If you’re ready to discover your own peace, drop me a line or an email. Let’s chat.
In the meantime, I’m sending baby dust and wishing you magic in what is to come.
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