How Yoga can Support you through the Grief and Loss of Infertility
/The World Health Organization’s World Report on Disabilities ranked Infertility as the fifth largest serious global disability. In the industrialized world infertility effects 10-15% of couples and individuals trying to conceive. That number is on the rise. There is an epidemic of families struggling with this diagnosis - which has been described as one of the most upsetting experiences in a persons life - yet the complexity of the loss is largely unrecognized. It’s very common for families and friends to dismiss or underestimate the stress associated with the cycle of uncertainty, waiting and grief.
An infertility diagnosis can lower self esteem, it can create or exacerbate marital problems, and it can lead to feelings of isolation. All of this will inevitably exacerbate grief and stress. In 2018 I was interviewed by author, energy practitioner and radio show host Nancy Mae on her News for the Soul Radio show Life Transitions where we talked about my four year struggle infertility, the associated grief and isolation, and my journey of becoming a mother. If you’re struggling with infertility know that you’re not alone and there is hope! You can listen to the interview HERE.
“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul - and sings the tunes without the words - and never stops at all. ”
As I was living through the merciless cycle of with infertility I became more dedicated to my yoga practice. In many ways it was a lifeline for me. Physically it gave me a sense of ease and comfort in my body. Energetically it helped me stay grounded and centred. Emotionally and spiritually it allowed me to listen more deeply to my heart, which helped build my self-esteem and clarify my own attitudes towards motherhood. This deeper connection with my Self became an emotional bridge from infertility through pregnancy and motherhood.
There are many ways that Yoga and Yoga Therapy can support women as they travel this path - it can help manage stress, process grief/loss and increase blood flow to reproductive organs to name a few. It is also very beneficial for preparing the body and mind for pregnancy (if that is part of your journey). Yoga for Fertility can support you if you are seeking medical and alternative fertility treatments, considering adoption or anything in between.
We tend to think of yoga as a movement practice, and there are absolutely great benefits to a gentle yoga for fertility movement practice. In particular poses and movements that will help release tension in the hips and pelvis and open the heart are helpful. Beyond movement and postures, meditation and mudras are two of my favourite ways to support the emotional complexities of infertility.
One of my favourite practices is to sit quietly holding a mudra. While I’m holding the mudra I will set an intention for my wellness (body, mind or spirit). Mudras for fertility help channel energy to reproductive organs and promote overall wellness. I don’t always feel the energy of a mudra but they always help me cultivate mindfulness with awareness on a heartfelt intention or wish for myself. If you would like to learn more I offer a FREE Mudras for Fertility workbook. Get your copy HERE.
Trimurti Mudra
Meditation has been shown to have many benefits but for a beginner it can be hard to know where to start and the thought of clearing the mind seems impossible when you’re under a huge amount of stress. I recommend finding a short guided meditation that focuses on feeling whole, positivity and hope. The Kirtan Kriya is a simple moving meditation I recommend to many clients dealing with stress and chronic conditions. For this practice we use the mantra “Sa Ta Na Ma” combined with movement in the hands. Here’s how to practice:
Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down and completely relax your shoulders with hand in our lap or at your sides if you’re lying down.
Bring the tip of your thumb to your pinky finger saying the mantra “Sa”
Bring the tip of your thumb to your ring finger saying the mantra “Ta”
Bring the tip of your thumb to your middle finger saying the mantra “Na”
Bring the tip of your thumb to your index finger saying the mantra “Ma”
I’ve heard several translations for the mantra. The one I like best is “All (Sa) this (Ta) is (Na) enough (Ma).” This brings a sense of equanimity and acceptance. We don’t have to accept what is going on with us, we just need to accept that right now this moment is all there is. This kind of present centered awareness helps clear the mind and release stress. Releasing stress is one of the most important ways you can optimize your body for fertility.
If you would like more information about how yoga can support you, schedule A FREE 20 minute consultation by emailing me iam@katlinrobinson.com.