Menopause and Chinese Medicine: Embracing the Second Spring

Menopause is a profound and natural transition, signaling the end of a woman’s reproductive years and the beginning of what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) beautifully calls the Second Spring. Rather than a winding down, this stage of life is an invitation: a chance to reorient toward deeper nourishment, wisdom, and vitality.

Yes, there can be challenges—hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, mood shifts, and fatigue. But when we approach this time with intention and care, it becomes an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves in a whole new way.

At The Violette House in Groton, MA, we support women through this transition using acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies to promote balance and long-term wellness. Let’s explore how Chinese Medicine views this life stage—and how you can truly thrive in your Second Spring.

The Menopausal Shift in Chinese Medicine

In TCM, menopause is viewed as a shift in the Kidneys’ energetic landscape. As we age, Kidney Yin—which cools and moistens the body—naturally declines. Without sufficient Yin to anchor Yang, heat and dryness may rise, leading to symptoms like hot flashes, dryness, irritability, and insomnia.

Liver Qi may also become stagnant, contributing to mood swings and frustration. Spleen Qi might weaken, leading to poor digestion and decreased energy. The goal of Chinese Medicine during this time is not just to alleviate symptoms, but to restore harmony and strengthen what has been depleted over time.

Perimenopause: Honoring the Transition Years

Perimenopause is often a time of hormonal turbulence—marked by irregular cycles, heightened PMS, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and changes in libido. It may last from a few months to over a decade, depending on the individual.

Acupuncture Benefits During Perimenopause

• Balances estrogen and progesterone, regulating cycles and easing PMS

• Clears internal heat, relieving hot flashes and night sweats

• Supports adrenal and Kidney function, reducing fatigue and mood swings

• Calms the nervous system, soothing anxiety and brain fog

Herbs & Adaptogens

Maca Root is particularly helpful during this phase. As an adaptogen, it helps regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which supports hormonal resilience and emotional steadiness.

Foods to Nourish and Rebalance in Perimenopause

• Blood-nourishing foods: Dark leafy greens, beets, liver, eggs, black beans, and dates

• Cooling foods: Cucumber, watermelon, celery, mint, mung beans

• Yin-tonifying foods: Black sesame seeds, tofu, seaweed, pears, and asparagus

• Digestive tonics: Bone broth, congee, ginger, and warm, cooked meals

Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and spicy foods, which can exacerbate internal heat and Liver Qi stagnation.

Movement and Lifestyle During Perimenopause

• Gentle, consistent exercise: Walking, swimming, yoga, and Tai Chi support circulation, emotional balance, and hormonal health without depleting the body.

• Strength training: Begin incorporating resistance exercises to support bone density and metabolic health.

• Sleep hygiene: Try a regular bedtime, turn off screens early, and sip cooling teas like lemon balm or chrysanthemum.

• Emotional support: Journaling, therapy, acupuncture, and community connection help ease emotional ups and downs.

Postmenopause: Thriving in the Second Spring

Once menstruation has ceased for 12 months, a woman enters postmenopause. While hormone levels stabilize, the effects of lower estrogen and ongoing Yin deficiency may appear—vaginal dryness, joint stiffness, cognitive changes, or reduced libido.

This phase offers a beautiful chance to slow down, reflect, and invest in what truly brings joy and meaning.

Acupuncture in Postmenopause

• Strengthens Kidney Yin and Yang, enhancing energy, libido, and mental clarity

• Supports bone density and joint mobility

• Improves circulation to maintain cognitive and cardiovascular health

• Alleviates dryness and supports skin and vaginal health

Maca Root Benefits Postmenopause

• Maintains bone and muscle strength

• Boosts memory and focus

• Supports libido and mood balance

Foods to Nourish the Second Spring

• Yin-nourishing foods: Black sesame seeds, walnuts, sweet potatoes, bone broth, lotus root

• Foods rich in healthy fats: Avocados, flaxseeds, chia seeds, sardines, and olive oil

• Phytoestrogens: Organic tofu, tempeh, lentils, and fermented soy

• Collagen and minerals: Bone broth, leafy greens, and calcium-rich seeds like chia and sesame

Stay hydrated with herbal infusions (like nettle or red clover) and drink warm water regularly to support digestion and moisture balance.

Movement, Joy, and Connection in the Second Spring

• Weight-bearing movement: Resistance training, Pilates, and brisk walking help preserve bone density and vitality.

• Mind-body practices: Qigong, meditation, and breathwork reduce stress and foster inner peace.

• Play and pleasure: Dance, explore creative outlets, travel, laugh, and make space for fun—joy is a healing force.

• Social connection: Prioritize time with friends, build community, and stay engaged in meaningful conversations and pursuits.

• Mental engagement: Keep the mind sharp with reading, learning, puzzles, or taking up a new skill.

Embracing the Second Spring

Menopause is not a decline—it’s a return to your essential self. In Chinese Medicine, the Second Spring is a time to reclaim your energy, your voice, and your vitality. It’s a new beginning, not an ending. This stage of life invites you to honor what you’ve learned, release what you no longer need, and create a more intentional rhythm that prioritizes rest, joy, and nourishment.

Located in Groton, MA, at The Violette House, we are here to walk beside you on this journey. Through acupuncture, herbal medicine, nutritional support, and holistic therapies, we help you move through perimenopause and postmenopause with strength, clarity, and ease. The Second Spring is not just a season—it’s a reawakening. Let it be vibrant. Let it be yours.