Photo by Chris Jarvis on Unsplash

Photo by CRYSTALWEED cannabis on Unsplash

So, What is Yoni Steaming?

Before we jump into the benefits, let’s talk a little bit about what yoni steaming actually is.

The word “yoni” is a Sanskrit term for the vagina, symbolizing divine feminine energy. Yoni steaming involves sitting or squatting over a pot of steaming water infused with a blend of herbs. The warm steam rises and gently penetrates the vaginal tissues, delivering the herbal properties directly to the area.

Let's go Back in Time a Bit... Check These Origins...

Photo by Tirth Engineer on Unsplash

So, How Does This Yoni Steaming Thing Work?

Yoni steaming uses the warmth of herbal steam to stimulate circulation and improve healing in the pelvic region. The herbs utilized in the steam have a variety of qualities, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and relaxing benefits. When steam enters the vaginal canal, it softens and opens the tissues, allowing the herbal ingredients to penetrate.

Still with me? Okay, let's get into this...

The 16 Benefits of Yoni Steaming

1. Supports Menstrual Health

One of the best-known advantages of yoni steaming, as well as the most common reason people start doing this, is its ability to improve menstrual health. Many women have irregular periods, cramps, and other menstrual discomforts. Yoni steaming can help you regulate your menstrual cycle, relieve cramps, and have a healthier, more comfortable period.

The warmth of the steam promotes circulation to the pelvic area, which can help in the relief of stagnant blood and the shedding of the uterus lining. This can lead to more consistent and less unpleasant periods. And I can say personally that this has worked wonders! That alone is what got me to change my mind! But there are 15 more reasons...

2. Eases Menstrual Cramps

Let’s be real—menstrual cramps can be a real pain. The good news is that yoni steaming can help to ease those God-awful cramps. The steam helps to relax the pelvic muscles and increase blood flow, which can reduce the intensity of menstrual cramps. Total life-saver.

Here's another, cheaper option that goes over your toilet: Fivona 2-in-1 Yoni Steaming Kit

3. Reduces Bloating

Bloating during your period is never fun, especially when you had plans to wear this cute little pink dress to a party that you spent a considerable amount of money to get and you can't now because you have a FUPA and can't find your spanx anywhere, and then you come to find out that your sister borrowed your spanx without your permission and never gave it back, and when you finally do, they're stained and ripped on one side, and you've already ripped that tag off of the pink dress, so you can't get your money back- *ahem* just a random example- but yoni steaming can help with that too. The steam helps to relax the abdominal muscles and promote better digestion, which can reduce bloating and discomfort.

6. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation in the pelvic area can lead to a variety of issues, including pain and discomfort. Yoni steaming has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and promote overall pelvic health, and not to harp on the whole baby thing, but that is definitely one way that inflammation can become a very real part of your life, so this is highly suggested for that situation, but I would suggest it whether you're having a baby or not.

7. Balances Hormones

This is something I personally have had issues with, and unfortunately, is very common with many women.

Hormonal imbalances have a habit of causing a range of symptoms, from mood swings to irregular periods. The good thing is that yoni steaming can help to balance hormones by promoting circulation and supporting the health of the endocrine system, which, if you didn't know, is a network of glands and organs that produce hormones that regulate many bodily functions, just to skim over the explanation.

8. Supports Vaginal Health

Not to state the obvious, but yoni steaming is a great way to support overall vaginal health, anyway. The steam helps to cleanse the vaginal canal, reduce odor, and promote a healthy balance of bacteria.

I should note here, that having a slight vaginal odor is actually VERY normal and nothing to be ashamed of... a lot of times when people have this they think that there's something wrong and they can't be intimate because of it. Any partner that is not okay with you smelling like a woman needs to do some research and then learn to get over themselves... 

Having said that, there are times when, because of diet, medication, the need to cleanse after intimacy with a partner, or even just plain hormone imbalance, that bacteria can accumulate. doing this at least twice a month can help with all of this.

I'm making such a big deal about this because health starts in the mind, and if your mind is conditioned to believe that you're now some unsexy, useless, decrepit old lady simply because you're not menstruating anymore, then your mind will energetically and biochemically accelerate deterioration in the body, and we don't want that. Health is not about making it through living until you die; it's about not suffering while you're living.

When your car breaks down, do you just say, "welp, that's life!!" and move on? NO! You do everything you can to take care of your vehicle, no matter how old it is, because it has served you well so far, it's yours, you care about it, it's worth taking care of, there's ALWAYS a way to fix what's wrong, and there will ALWAYS be someone who has the expertise to either fix it, or show you how to fix it.

Okay, I'm down off my soapbox.

Having said all that, menopause is not an easy thing to transition through because of the wide range of symptoms it causes, including hot flashes, dryness, and mood swings, and you want to get on with your life. Yoni steaming can help to ease these symptoms by promoting circulation and balancing hormones, so you don't have to feel held back or held down by these symptoms, which is something that can also add to your mental state.

Stay strong. You're still beautiful.

If you're looking for something that helps with menopause side effects; VMAGIC by Medicine Mama, Organic Vulva Balm... it's perfect for yoni aftercare as well.

11. Reduces Stress

Life can be stressful, so aside from having a little fun time with your partner, yoni steaming is a wonderful way to unwind and de-stress. The warmth of the steam and the soothing properties of the herbs help to relax the mind and body, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.

12. Promotes Detoxification

Yoni steaming helps to promote detoxification by increasing circulation and promoting the release of toxins from the body. The steam helps to open the pores and encourage sweating, which is how the toxins leave the body, as well as encourage weight loss, with the digestion encouragement yoni steaming creates and all.

Okay, one more: Here are some refills for when you run out. I know a lot of people who go to this particular brand.

13. Supports Emotional Healing

Yoni steaming is not just about physical health—it’s also a powerful tool for emotional healing. The practice provides a sacred space for self-care and reflection, helping you to connect with your body and release emotional blockages.

And let me just say, meditation while yoni steaming? That's what's up. It is fabulous! I couldn't recommend it enough.

But I will say, if you can find a facility that does yoni steaming so you can meditate there, it would be better. It's much harder to focus when you've got a bunch of people screaming around the house right outside the door. This is a sacred time to build a relationship between you and your vagina, and if hearing people in the background makes you self-conscious, which is common with some women, or if it's just plain distracting you, then find someplace outside of your house to do this; modify a shed, find a spa, whatever it takes to get the peaceful quiet time alone.

If that's not easily available, then try to find a compromise with the rest of the household, and/or modify the room you would normally do this in; soundproof the room, get some noise-cancelling headphones, light some candles, burn some incense, put on meditation music or some affirmation soundtrack, and take time to love yourself. And if anyone knocks on that door anytime in the next hour, so help you God!

14. Enhances Intuition

On the vein of meditation and mental states, many women find that yoni steaming helps to enhance their intuition and connection to their inner wisdom. (It definitely does for me.) The practice encourages mindfulness and self-awareness, helping you to tune into your body and intuition.

16. Nurtures Self-Love

At its core, yoni steaming is a practice of self-love. It’s a way to honor and nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Taking time for yourself and prioritizing your well-being can help to cultivate a deeper sense of self-love and acceptance.

Photo by Katherine Hanlon on Unsplash

How to Do a Yoni Steam at Home

Now that you know all the amazing benefits of yoni steaming, you might be wondering how to do it at home. Believe it or not, it’s easier than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Choose Your Herbs

The first step is to choose your herbs. You can find pre-made yoni steaming blends, or you can create your own using herbs like chamomile, lavender, rosemary, and calendula. Each herb has its own unique properties, so choose the ones that resonate with you. I have a recipe that you can pick apart if you want.

2. Prepare Your Steam

Next, you’ll need to prepare your steam. Boil a pot of water and add the herbs you want. Let the herbs steep in the hot water for about 10-15 minutes.

3. Set Up Your Space

Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax and enjoy your steam. You can use a special yoni steaming stool, or you can simply place the pot of steaming herbs on the floor and squat or kneel over it.

4. Steam Safely

Be sure to test the steam temperature before you start to make sure it’s not too hot. You want it to be warm and soothing, not scalding. Sit or squat over the steam for about 20-30 minutes, covering yourself with a towel or blanket to keep the steam contained.

5. Relax and Enjoy

Take this time to relax and enjoy the experience. You can meditate, listen to soothing music, or simply focus on your breath. Allow the steam and the herbs to work their magic.

In the End...