FIRST THING’S FIRST. . . WHAT IS YONI STEAMING?
Yoni is a Sanskrit word meaning “vagina,” “womb,” or “origin of life.” Yoni steaming is the ritual of gently cleansing and healing your vagina by allowing the warmth permeate the vagina, cervix, uterus and entire reproductive system. The yoni steam is usually infused with healing herbs which are activated through the steam. That steam is believed to physically detox but also is thought to emotionally detox your body and womb as well. Many women hold traumas within their womb and if we don’t take the time to heal past-traumas, our womb will keep re-birthing our traumas in different ways. Emotionally and spiritually, yoni steaming can be thought of as ridding the womb of the harmful energies that enter or get “stuck” there. Yoni steaming is a great form of self-love and re-connecting to your femininity and womanly intuition.
THE V-STEAM TREND
Yoni steaming has made some controversial headlines over the past few years ever since Gwyneth Paltrow preached about its benefits in her Lifestyle mag, Goop. She received backlash as gynecologists and doctors alike claimed it can harm your the vagina and can cause bacterial infections. Although others claimed it can actually heal bacterial infections, as with any natural remedy use with caution and at your own discretion. Do not yoni steam while pregnant, during heavy menstruation, or if you have open sores. Take out any genital piercings before attempting yoni steaming. If you are suffering from a severe bacterial infection, consult with your physician before yoni steaming.
WHERE DID IT ORIGINATE?
Yoni steaming has been practiced in many ancient, indigenous cultures around the world! While some may think of it as taboo, it’s actually an ancient forgotten wisdom used by medicine women in African, Asian and Mayan cultures. In modern times, it’s growing in popularity in the West.
HEAD TO A SPA OR TO DIY?
Now offered at exclusive day spas, yoni steams can be found in most major cities, especially our bohemian city of Los Angeles. Simply research yoni steaming near you to find a Yoni Practitioner in your area. If you’re feeling a bit more introverted and want to do it yourself it can be done, but please be cautious, we don’t want anyone to burn themselves dealing with a bowl of steaming water!
So now you might be thinking, well how do I get that bowl of steaming water below my yoni anyway? Unless you’re skilled at wood-working and can whip up a little seat with a hole to allow the steam to actually reach your yoni – you may want to consider checking out ETSY for a Yoni Steam Seat or if you’re balling on a budget, there is an alternative; one that might seem a bit gross but highly effective and used by many other goddesses like yourself, known as “the porcelain throne!”
FROM TOILET TO THRONE
To make this experience feel a bit more pleasant and a lot less “yuck” you might want to consider giving your toilet a good scrub and making your bathroom more Zen-like. It’s always good to cleanse your sacred space – whether you decide to use your bathroom or not before steaming so you can feel more at peace.
A good scrub, a little sage, some incense and candles, meditation music, a good book or diary to write about your experience, a wide-rimmed stainless steel or glass mixing bowl and a cozy blanket and pair of socks – all to keep the warmth within!
Place your selected herbs into your pot, pour the water over while visualizing the benefits of your V-steaming. Bring to a boil and then simmer for about 10 minutes- this is important as it will bring out the healing properties of the herbs’ essential oils. Pour your steaming water into your separate yoni steaming bowl, place the bowl into your toilet and let sit for a few minutes to be sure not to burn your sensitive vulva tissues!
Once your all cozy seated and wrapped in your blanket, the steaming should last about a good 25-30 minutes. This is when your inner yogi-goddess comes out to play! Go inward during this journey, meditate, read and journal. Start your ritual off with a positive affirmation and intention.
Allow yourself to BE during this time. Whatever comes up for you, let it flow and let it release. Fill yourself with only the things that benefit you.
WHAT HERBS FOR WHAT?
There are many different herbs to use–you can use one type or mix a bunch together! It is best to use your intuition when selecting the right herbs, but research can also help!
Lavender naturally relaxes you and releases stress, while regulating your menstrual cycle! It’s also great for women suffering from PMS and mood swings. Mugwort is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, essential for women who are suffering from bacterial infections, heavy discharge and yeast. This herb can also benefit women suffering from PCOS, fibroids, infertility, and hormonal imbalances. Calendula is an anti-inflammatory herb which heals scar tissue, helps release trauma, and relieves hemorrhoids and constipation. Throw in some rose petals for extra beauty from the inside and out! Rose petals are known to uplift and calm your yoni. Enjoy your pampering session, vinas!
Healing is best when surrounded by positive vinas! Start swiping on Hey! VINA to find your friends today!
VINAZINE 