A Woman's 7-Year Life Cycles According to TCM

One of the greatest truths known in this world is that in life, change is the only constant thing. As a woman, how do you deal with the constant changes happening in all aspects of yourself?

In biology, we learned about the life stages and how in each stage, a person would experience a list of physical changes or biological milestones and cognitive development. These changes offer a roadmap of growth that is guided by scientific understanding.

Traditional Chinese Medicine also has its version of life stages divided into 7-year life cycles for women and 8-year life cycles for men. Women are seen as yin, which corresponds to 7, an odd or yang number. TCM's 7-year life cycle provides a holistic view that acknowledges the transformative shifts women experience every seven years.

Birth to 6 -- Foundation Building

Focus: Physical development and foundational health

This is the beginning of life. The life essence of Jing comes from the parents and is gradually developed. This is also the time when the Kidney energy starts to become strong. Groundwork for physical and mental health is crucial during this stage.

What we recommend:

Parents and guardians are to encourage their child to consume nutrient-rich meals
A nurturing environment for emotional stability
Prioritize on things that positively contribute to physical and mental development

7 to 13 -- Blossoming Youth

Focus: Early puberty and emotional awareness

At 7, Kidney energy becomes prosperous. This cycle is part is still part of what is known as the wood phase in TCM where it's all about establishing your roots as emotional and social skills begin to deepen. The body starts to prepare for menstruation.

What we recommend:

Foster self-esteem and encourage open communication
This is the best time to strengthen the gut and immune system

14 to 20 -- Fire Phase

Focus: Self-identity, menstrual health, and emotional balance

The mind (Shen) starts to mature, helping a young woman define a more stable identity. This phase brings a lot of overwhelming changes physically and emotionally. Despite that, there is a consistent exciting energy hence it is called a fire phase.

What we recommend:

Supportive treatments like herbal therapy and acupuncture can help young women deal with balancing hormones to address challenges like acne and irregular menstruation cycles.
Promote physical fitness and awareness. Take note of the menstrual cycle of the body's changing rhythms.

21 to 27 -- Height of Vitality

Focus: Relationships, fertility preparation, career prospects

This is also called the Earth Years because of the stability and nurturing energy of this cycle. Career aspirations, personal relationships, and sexuality are further explored.

What we recommend:

Practice self-cultivation through mindfulness and physical activities. Learn the things that work and do not work for you.
Give importance to hormonal and sexual health as the body is in preparation for year 28.

28 to 34 -- Nurturing and Consolidation

Focus: Career stability, family, emotional grounding

This is the time in life to focus on balancing the feminine and masculine energies within you. These are said to be the years of peak vitality. Most women are focusing on their careers, creating a family, or both.

What we recommend:

Support pregnancy and post-partum care with the help of acupuncture and herbal therapy
Protect your essence by eating a balanced diet and reducing stress

35 to 41 -- Clarity and Transformation

Focus: More self-discovery, preparing for menopause

At age 35, you may start experiencing hair loss and reduced skin elasticity. You will also notice menstrual cycle changes as your hormones begin to prepare for menopause. This is the time to focus on your mind and spirit. Find ways to keep yourself resilient for the changes to come.

What we recommend:

Explore hobbies and passion to support your mental and spiritual vibrancy
Focus on health and wellness by maintaining a healthy diet that works for you and doing weight-bearing exercises for your muscles and bones

42 to 48 -- Knowledge and detoxification

Focus: Balancing energy, introspection

There is a gradual depletion of vitality and hormones continue to shift. This is the time to think about what you have done in life. Have you moved forward with grace? What are you doing to keep yourself stable mentally and spiritually?

What we recommend:

Give more emphasis on inner peace and healing
Find grounding through acupuncture and other practices like yoga and qigong

49 to 55+ -- Water Phase and Second Spring

Focus: Reflection and embracing wisdom

This cycle marks the end of the reproductive cycle, but it is also a time of immense growth. Focus on what brings you fulfillment and joy.

What we recommend:

Manage symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia with the help of TCM modalities like acupuncture, herbal therapy, and lifestyle changes
Strengthen social connections and continue gaining experience

By honoring the needs of each stage, women can maintain balance and mature gracefully. Embrace the opportunities and challenges each phase brings. Traditional Chinese medicine has effective tools to support you holistically throughout your journey.

Book your appointment today to start harmonizing health and thriving wherever you are in your life cycle.

Dr. Ting Wu of NYC Acupuncture + Wellness specializes in women's health and fertility, offering personalized care for every life stage. She will be guesting on the 193rd episode of Hello, Hot Flash, a podcast by Stephanie Shaw where she will discuss how herbal medicine can support menopausal symptoms. Listen to them through Spotify, Apple, Google, iHeart, Podbean, Podchaser, or Amazon this December 26, 2024, 5:30 AM EST.