Yoni Steaming: A Holistic Practice for Women’s Wellness
Yoni Steam, also known as Choi Yok, Bajo, V-Steam, Perri Steam, or even the less subtly mentioned “vaginal fumment,” is an ancient practice that has been experiencing a quiet but steady revival among women, particularly within the wellness and holistic healing communities. Rooted in tradition and cultural ceremony, this practice is now being rediscovered by a new generation of women seeking natural and nurturing ways to heal, balance, and reconnect with their bodies.
What is Yoni Steaming?
Yoni Steaming is far from a trendy spa treatment or the latest wellness obsession. It has been practiced for millennia across different cultures and continents, from indigenous women in Central and South America to regions in Africa and traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda in South Asia. This shared wisdom reflects the universal nature of this uterine care practice and the enduring desire for gentle, natural forms of care that honor the innate intelligence of the body.
The word “Yoni” itself is Sanskrit and holds profound meaning, translating as ‘uterus,’ ‘source,’ or ‘holy space.’ It symbolizes divine female energy, the source of life, intuition, and creativity. Yoni Steaming, therefore, transcends a mere physical act of cleansing or healing; it becomes a spiritual practice—a dedication to the place from which all life originates, a return to the womb both literally and metaphorically.
Yoni Steaming involves a simple process where a woman sits, kneels, or squats over a bowl of steaming water infused with medicinal herbs. A towel or cloak is draped around the waist or shoulders to contain the steam, creating a sauna-like environment. The heat opens the pores, allowing the steam and volatile oils from the herbs to be absorbed by the delicate mucous membrane tissues of the vulva and vagina, where they enter the bloodstream and travel to the pelvic organs.
Benefits of Yoni Steaming
Yoni steaming offers a range of physical benefits, including:
Postpartum healing: Promotes tissue repair, reduces swelling, aids in the uterus’s return to its normal size, and helps prevent infection.
Balancing menstrual cycles: Regulates cycle length, supports ovulation, and reduces heavy or painful periods.
Relieving cramps and bloating: Improves blood circulation and relaxes pelvic muscles.
Preparing for pregnancy or labor: Creates a hospitable environment for conception and labor, reducing the need for interventions like episiotomies.
Alleviating menopausal symptoms: Addresses vaginal dryness, discomfort, urinary tract infections, and emotional imbalances.
Treating infections: Helps with recurring yeast or bacterial imbalances (consult a healthcare provider for severe infections).
Ritual use: Used ceremonially in some cultures, such as pre-wedding preparations, to cleanse, strengthen, and nourish the bride.
In addition to its physical effects, Yoni Steaming can have profound emotional and spiritual impacts. The womb is seen as an energetic storage space for emotions, and the warmth of the steam, combined with intentional care, can help release energy and deepen the connection with one’s feminine essence.
Common herbs used in Yoni steaming include lavender (soothes the nervous system and fights infection), sage (cooling and antibacterial), and raspberry leaf (strengthens the uterus and supports menstruation). Other herbs like chamomile, calendula, yarrow, plantain, or lady’s mantle may also be used depending on the intention of the steam.
In conclusion, Yoni Steaming is a journey, not just a treatment—it invites women to slow down, connect with their bodies, and honor their cycles as sacred. Whether for healing, self-care, or curiosity, Yoni steaming is a gentle, nurturing way to affirm trust in the body, honor its cycles, and restore strength.
It’s important to note that Yoni Steaming is not a substitute for medical care, especially in cases of severe reproductive or gynecological disorders. However, as an additional practice, it empowers women to participate in their healing journey.
Author Bio
Tuesday Simmonds has practiced and taught holistic therapies for three decades, traveling the world to learn new skills from ancient traditions. Specializing in women’s pelvic health with a focus on Yoni steaming, exercise, and Maya abdominal massage, she supports menstrual cycle regulation, postpartum healing, and menopause care. As the founder of Womb’on Wellness Studio, Tuesday has served clients at prestigious institutions like Golds Sydney Gym, De Lambert Clinic for MS patients, and Harley St. and Stanmore College.
Incorporating Yoni Steaming into your wellness routine can bring about profound physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits, helping you reconnect with your body and embrace your feminine essence.
