On Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023, ASE news will introduce you to such customs which will surprise you about the fact of menstruation.
Avoidance of Physical Contact: Women were often prohibited from touching anyone during their menstrual period. This belief stemmed from the notion that menstruating women were impure or contaminated during this time.
Secluded Sleeping Arrangements: Menstruating women were often assigned separate sleeping quarters or rooms away from other family members. This segregation aimed to maintain the purity and sanctity of the household.
Restricted Access to Certain Areas: Women were sometimes not allowed to enter the kitchen or places of worship, such as the puja ghr (prayer room), during their menstrual period. It was believed that their presence could defile these sacred spaces.
Use of Separate Utensils: Women were provided with separate utensils for eating during menstruation. These utensils were not reused by other family members to prevent the supposed contamination associated with menstruation.
Distinct Attire: Women were given special clothing specifically designated for use during their menstrual period. These garments were not worn on regular days to maintain cleanliness and avoid mixing with other clothes.
Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023: Superstitions and Rituals Surrounding Menstruation
Within the realm of Hindu mythology, certain beliefs and rituals were associated with menstruation. It was believed that failure to adhere to these practices could lead to negative consequences in the next life. One such belief stated that if a woman violated the prescribed norms during her period, she would be reincarnated as a hen.
Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023: Tips and Tricks for pain relief
Despite the social restrictions and superstitions surrounding menstruation, there were also traditional remedies passed down through generations to alleviate menstrual discomfort. Here are some tips and tricks often shared by grandmothers:
Eating Celery and Fomenting with Hot Water: Consuming celery and using hot water for fomentation were believed to provide relief from menstrual pain.
Massaging with Asafetida Water: Massaging the area around the navel with asafetida water was considered a home remedy for menstrual cramps.
Massaging with Oil near the Toe or Thumb: Another practice involved massaging specific points, such as near the toe or thumb of the hand, to relieve menstrual discomfort.
Sitting in Bajraasan Position: Bajraasan, a sitting position where the knees are drawn up towards the chest, was suggested as a posture that could alleviate menstrual pain.
Wearing Loose Clothes: During menstruation, wearing loose-fitting clothes was recommended instead of tight or constricting garments to enhance comfort.
As society progresses and scientific knowledge expands, many of these traditional practices and beliefs have evolved or faded away. It is crucial to approach menstruation with a modern understanding of biology and prioritize the well-being and comfort of individuals experiencing it.
