Forage & Gather - Is there a Hidden meaning to our Hot Flashes?
A new way of looking at this inconvenient symptom
This morning, as I sit in the quiet embrace of my garden, my thoughts drift to the memory of hot flashes during menopause—a sudden storm that sweeps in without warning, much like a rogue wave catching a surfer unprepared, leaving one gasping and unsettled. Yet, could there be a deeper meaning, a richer narrative to these fiery interruptions? I learned during my transition through menopause that it was indeed possible to revitalize and regenerate myself at any age! I’m at the doorway to 65 this year and I still get the occasional drenching hot flash…what follows is what did and still does work for me.
In the wisdom of Chinese herbal traditions, hot flashes are seen as suppressed liver energy manifesting as fire, a physical expression of unexpressed anger and frustration. As I observed the moments that triggered these intense flushes, I realized that while hot flashes are profoundly physical, they consistently brought my hidden conflicts to the surface—things I hesitated to express out of the fear of offending anyone.
Through this journey, I learned that hot flashes were not just bodily reactions but signals urging me to reevaluate my life regularly, to nurture myself more diligently, to be honest with myself, and to establish healthier boundaries. To soothe the physical discomfort, I found solace in hot foot baths (Yes hot! They draw the energy downward!) infused with river rocks and calming essential oils like balsam, catnip and rose geranium with a teaspoon of olive oil, and I nourished my body with liver-cleansing foods such as salads laden with dandelion greens and lots of watermelon, accompanied by iced ginger root tea that I’d infused with herbs like catnip, lemon balm, chamomile, peppermint, and rose petals and sweetened with maple syrup.
Movement and meditation became essential. We often sit too much, stalling our natural energy flow. Fortunately, nestled among the old churches nearby are serene outdoor labyrinths. Walking these labyrinths became a meditative practice for me, a way to reset my mind by simply following the path laid before me, allowing solutions and calm to arise spontaneously within the peaceful act of walking.
Dance, a long-cherished passion of mine, took on new significance as I learned to channel pent-up heat and anger through movement. When dance was not enough, Shinrin Yoku—forest bathing—provided a mindful escape into the cooling balm of nature.
Ultimately, I came to see hot flashes not just as a challenge but as an alchemical transformation, urging me into the next phase of my life. What I finally learned was that these flashes were a very physical, but purposefully designed process to shift me into a new stage, one where I would keep all my blood and creative fire for myself. They became less about struggle and more about guidance, each surge a beacon leading toward deeper self-understanding and autonomy, transforming them from mere disturbances to opportunities for profound personal growth.
If you’d like to have a deeper conversation about this, please don’t hesitate to contact me.❤️
As we explore the realm of herbal remedies and natural therapies, it's crucial to remember the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional before integrating new herbal supplements into your regimen. Each person's health circumstances are unique, and what works for one may not be suitable for another. A doctor can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health, ensuring that any new treatments complement existing conditions and medications effectively. This precaution helps to safeguard your health while you explore the enriching world of herbalism.