Conception and pregnancy are intricate processes, and what can be a smooth journey for some may prove challenging for others. According to the American Pregnancy Association, infertility affects approximately one out of every six couples in the United States. Here are some healthy and natural tips to increase your fertility and make the process as easy as possible.
Be Seasonal
According to Chinese Medicine, many organs and bodily functions are affected by the seasons and seasonal changes. Male energy begins in the spring and peaks around June 21, at the summer solstice. Female energy begins in autumn and peaks around Dec. 21, at the winter solstice. This means that the most fertile seasons for men are spring and summer, while for women, it’s autumn and winter.
One possible explanation is that because men are more physically active during the spring and summer months, growth hormones and testicular functions increase correspondingly. As for women, ovulation occurs ideally at a lowered body temperature, so it makes sense that the cooler autumn and winter months would equal increased fertility.
It’s important to know that a high body temperature is not conducive to fertility. It has been found that when environmental temperatures are overly hot – and the body is above the ideal temperature of 98.6 – there seems to be a drop in the testicular function for men and a delayed maturation of follicles in women.
Relax
Stress can be a major factor in infertility. Dealing with conception is stressful for many couples, and stress can have an impact on the reproductive system. Chinese Medicine teaches that acupuncture, meditation, and herbs can be extremely effective for managing stress. Acupuncture can decrease the stress hormone cortisol and increase production of endorphins – hormones that create a sense of wellbeing and relaxation.
Qi Gong is a breathing technique and exercise that can help to reduce stress and relax your body and mind. The goal is to slow down, smooth out and deepen each breath. With every exhalation, utter the word calm in your mind and breathe out the tension from a part of your body, starting from the top of your head and working your way down through each part of your body until you reach your feet. Release the remaining tension through your toes and the bottoms of your feet. For more stress-releasing techniques, try my Meditations for Stress Release CD to achieve a more relaxed body, tranquil mind, and restored spirit with only 10 minutes of simple breath/mind exercises.
Eat Well
Nutrition is always an important factor in life; however, when trying to enhance your fertility it can make an even bigger difference. Choosing healthier food options, such as fresh or organic foods high in vitamins and proteins, can help to give your fertility a natural boost. The best foods to bolster your fertility include eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes, and berries. Since these foods are themselves capable of propagation when hatched or sprouted, they are said to be abundant in life-giving energy.
It is no wonder that modern science has confirmed them as a category unto themselves; they are complete foods providing essential amino acids and helping to form the building block of protein. They are also high in the essential fatty acids (EFAs) critical for hormonal health and chock full of the antioxidants that prevent a premature decline in function and aging.
Sleep In
Not only is good sleep restorative to your mind, but it is also critical to the proper functioning of organs such as the liver, which helps to decrease toxins from your life and therefore increase your fertility. Average adults should try to get seven or eight hours of deep, uninterrupted sleep every night to maintain the health of their bodies. Try to relax each night by creating a ritual to slowly shut off your mind and body before trying to rest.
May you live long, live strong, and live happy!
Dr. Mao Shing Ni, best known as Dr. Mao is a bestselling author, doctor of Oriental Medicine and board certified anti-aging expert. He has appeared regularly on “Dr. Oz,” “The Doctors,” and “EXTRA.” Dr. Mao practices acupuncture, nutrition, and Chinese medicine with his associates at the Tao of Wellness in Santa Monica and Newport Beach. Dr. Mao and his brother, Dr. Daoshing Ni founded Tao of Wellness more than 25 years ago in addition to also founding Yo San University in Marina del Rey. To make an appointment for evaluation and treatment please call 310.917.2200 or you can email Dr. Mao at contact@taoofwellness.com. To subscribe to his tip-filled newsletter please visit www.taoofwellness.com.
