In recent years, the practice of free bleeding has emerged as a profound statement of resistance, not just to societal norms but also to the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs that surround menstruation, also known as “that time of the month” or “moon cycle”. Free bleeding—the practice of allowing blood to flow without the use of absorbent products like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups—is a return to the sacredness of the body’s natural rhythms. It’s a movement that, for many, is about reclaiming the divine feminine, reconnecting with ancient traditions, and embracing the power and wisdom of the menstrual cycle as a spiritual journey. Some choose to do it strictly at home, while others do it all of the time. It’s all up to you. Let’s dive into the history, traditions and healing teas in this article.
The Cycle as Sacred
Throughout history, many cultures have revered menstruation as a powerful, spiritual experience. In ancient traditions, menstruating women were often seen as conduits between the earthly and the divine. They were honored as wise, intuitive, and deeply connected to the rhythms of nature. In cultures such as those of ancient Egypt, Greece, and indigenous tribes around the world, menstruating women were thought to possess an inherent power that allowed them to access higher realms of consciousness.
In these cultures, menstruation wasn’t just a biological process; it was a sacred experience, a time for deep reflection, renewal, and connection with the divine. The blood itself was viewed as a sacred offering, a symbol of the creative force of life. For instance, some Native American traditions held that menstruation was a time for women to honor the Earth, their ancestors, and their inner power.
However, over time, these spiritual beliefs were overshadowed by the rise of patriarchal systems that sought to control and suppress the feminine. Menstruation, once celebrated as a powerful spiritual experience, became stigmatized and hidden. Several products were created, and societal norms emerged that suggested menstruating women were impure or unclean. In modern times, menstruation has largely been reduced to a medical or hygienic issue, disconnected from its spiritual roots.
Free Bleeding as a Spiritual Awakening
Free bleeding is more than just a physical practice—it’s a spiritual awakening. It represents a return to a more primal, sacred knowing of the body. When a person chooses to free bleed, some feel they are honoring their body as a vessel of divine wisdom, rejecting the shame that has been associated with menstruation for centuries. Free bleeding is a form of reclaiming one’s bodily autonomy and embracing the menstrual cycle as a powerful, spiritual force rather than something to be hidden or suppressed.
For many, free bleeding is an act of surrender. It involves allowing the body to flow freely and naturally, without the constraints of modern products designed to contain or control. It is a return to the belief that menstruation is not something to be “fixed” or “managed,” but rather a natural process that connects the individual to the cyclical patterns of nature. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, so does the cycle. Just as the seasons change, so too does the body experience its own seasons of shedding, renewal, and creation.
By free bleeding, individuals reconnect with their own cycles, with the ebb and flow of life, and with the wisdom that comes from aligning oneself with nature’s rhythms. For some, it becomes an act of meditation, a way to slow down and tune into the body’s messages. It can be an invitation to reflect on the deeper meaning of menstruation, to acknowledge its spiritual power, and to honor the divine feminine that flows within all of us.
The Feminine and the Sacred Blood
The menstrual cycle has long been associated with the concept of the sacred feminine. In many spiritual traditions, menstruation is seen as a manifestation, an embodiment of creation, destruction, and rebirth. The blood is often viewed as a symbol of life itself, representing the potential for creation and the life-giving force that exists within the feminine body.
Free bleeding can be viewed as an offering to the sacredness of the blood. It’s a way of standing in reverence to the body’s natural processes and embracing the wisdom carried in the blood. By allowing the blood to flow freely, one honors the life-giving energy that it represents—a powerful, primal force that is part of the ongoing cycle of life and death.
In some spiritual circles, there is a belief that menstruating women are closer to the divine during their cycle, particularly during the bleeding phase. This is a time when a woman’s intuition is heightened, and she may feel more connected to her inner wisdom and spiritual guidance. Free bleeding, in this context, becomes a practice of stepping into one’s full spiritual power—of allowing oneself to be open, receptive, and attuned to the messages of the body, heart, and soul.
Free Bleeding as a Rejection of Societal Control
For some women, one of the core tenets of free bleeding is the rejection of societal control over the female body. Some feel the commercialization of menstruation products, which are marketed with an underlying message of shame, suggests that menstruation is something to be hidden. They feel that the very act of using these products reinforces the idea that menstruation is dirty, impure, or embarrassing.
Free bleeding, on the other hand, is a form of spiritual defiance. For many, it is an act of reclaiming power over one’s body, a refusal to let patriarchal systems dictate how the body should function and how menstruation should be perceived. By choosing not to use menstrual products, free bleeders are saying no to the shame that has been imposed on their bodies for generations. They are embracing their sacred blood, refusing to hide or be ashamed of a natural process that is inherently spiritual. It is a personal choice.
A Path to Empowerment and Healing
For others, free bleeding is not a political statement; it is a deeply healing spiritual practice. It is a way to reconnect with the sacredness of the body, to honor the feminine, and to embrace the natural cycles of life. By choosing to free bleed, individuals may feel a sense of liberation and empowerment, as they break free from the constraints of societal expectations.
Menstruation is a time of deep introspection and spiritual growth. It is a time when the body sheds what no longer serves it, creating space for new growth and transformation. By aligning with this natural process, free bleeders embrace the healing potential of menstruation. It becomes an act of self-care, a way to honor the self, the body, and the divine.
Herbal Teas for the Cycle
As we honor the body’s natural processes during menstruation, certain herbs can offer support in soothing and balancing the physical and emotional experience of the cycle. Drinking herbal teas during your period can help reduce discomfort, promote relaxation, and provide nourishment for the body and spirit. Always consult your practitioner before trying new herbs. Here are some herbal teas that are particularly beneficial during this time of the month:
Ginger Tea
Ginger is well-known for its ability to alleviate menstrual cramps and soothe digestive discomfort. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps and bloating. Sipping ginger tea can also help with nausea, a common symptom during menstruation.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is a gentle herb that is especially effective in calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation. Its soothing properties can help with anxiety, stress, and insomnia, which can sometimes accompany the menstrual cycle. Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties, making it helpful for reducing cramps and discomfort.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint is another soothing herb that can help ease menstrual cramps by relaxing the muscles of the uterus. It also provides relief from bloating and indigestion, which are common during menstruation. Peppermint tea has a cooling, refreshing effect that can help ease tension and stress.
Raspberry Leaf Tea
Raspberry leaf tea is known for its toning effects on the uterus. It helps to strengthen and relax the uterine muscles, making it particularly useful for easing cramps. This tea also supports overall menstrual health and can help regulate the menstrual cycle. It’s a nourishing tea that is often used throughout the month to maintain healthy reproductive function.
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and is known for its calming effects on the nervous system. It is helpful for reducing anxiety, stress, and insomnia during menstruation. Lemon balm also supports digestive health and can help reduce bloating and cramping.
Dong Quai Tea
Dong Quai, often referred to as the “female ginseng,” is a traditional herb in Chinese medicine known for its ability to balance hormones. It can help alleviate symptoms of menstrual cramps, reduce heavy bleeding, and regulate irregular periods. Dong Quai is often used to nourish and tonify the reproductive system.
Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon has warming properties that can help with menstrual cramps and promote blood circulation. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the pain and discomfort associated with periods. Drinking cinnamon tea can provide a comforting, spicy warmth that supports both the body and the spirit during menstruation.
The Future of Free Bleeding
As more people turn to ancient traditions for healing and empowerment, free bleeding may continue to grow as a spiritual practice. It offers a path to reconnect with the body’s sacred wisdom, to honor the cycles of nature, and to celebrate the divine feminine that exists within all of us. In a world where the cycle is still shrouded in secrecy and shame, free bleeding is a powerful act of spiritual reclamation—an invitation to embrace the sacredness of the body and the wisdom it holds.
In the end, free bleeding is about more than just rejecting menstrual products; it is about reclaiming our connection to the divine, honoring the sacred blood that flows through us, and standing in the power of the divine feminine. It is an invitation to embrace our bodies in all their fullness, to honor the wisdom that comes with every cycle, and to celebrate the eternal dance of creation and renewal.
