The Power of Your Pelvic Floor
My first real introduction to the pelvic floor came through studying Qi Gong. In Taoist philosophy, one of the most powerful energy centers in the body is known as the Lower Dan Tian, often called the “Sea of Qi.”
Located in the low belly, just below the navel and deep within the abdomen, this space is considered a sacred reservoir of energy. It’s believed to support and govern:
Our overall life force (like the body’s battery)
Physical health and stamina
Youthfulness
Emotional stability
Creative expression
Warmth and circulation
This perspective invites us to see the pelvic region not just as anatomical but as deeply vital.
The Pelvic Floor is one of the most powerful energy centers in the body.
Awakening the Lower
Dan Tian
One of the first techniques I learned was the Fire Path Breath. This is a practice that uses gentle engagement of the pelvic floor (specifically the perineum) to build warmth and vitality in the body.
This subtle activation helps “stoke the fire” of the Lower Dan Tian, increasing energy, circulation, and internal awareness.
A Modern Perspective on Pelvic Floor Health
Interestingly, Western medicine is beginning to echo what these ancient traditions have long understood: the pelvic floor plays a foundational role in overall health.
In recent years, interest in pelvic floor therapy has surged, and for good reason.
The pelvic floor is often described as a hammock (or even more accurately, a responsive trampoline) that supports the bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs (prostate or uterus). But its role goes far beyond structural support.
Your pelvic floor is:
The foundation of core strength
Connected to the tailbone, sacrum, and spine
Coordinated with the diaphragm in breathing
Linked to the nervous system
Essential for reproductive health
Crucial for elimination and circulation
In many ways, it is the base layer of how the entire body functions.
“Your power lives at your center. Nurture it, and everything above it responds.”
When the Pelvic Floor Needs Support
As we age or due to stress, injury, or lifestyle factors, the pelvic floor can become either weak or overly tight. Both can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
Constipation
Urinary urgency, leakage, or incontinence
Decreased sexual sensation or pleasure
Erectile or prostate concerns
Organ prolapse (bladder, uterus, rectum)
Interstitial cystitis
Frequent UTIs
IBS
Pain with intercourse
Pelvic pain or vaginal spasms
These issues are incredibly common—but often under-discussed and under-treated.
Support, Healing & Reconnection
Despite how prevalent these conditions are, not many practitioners are trained to treat them. In 2023, I completed specialized training in Acupuncture for Pelvic Floor Disorders, and I’ve seen truly meaningful results with patients.
There are also supportive at-home practices that can help restore function and reconnect you with this part of your body. One such tool is the use of yoni eggs, which can support strength, awareness, and sexual vitality when used properly and intentionally.
(If you’re curious, I’ll be offering a workshop this week where you can learn how to safely and effectively incorporate this practice.)
And if you’re in need of a trusted pelvic floor physical therapist, I’m always happy to connect you with someone excellent here in town.
A Gentle Invitation
The pelvic floor is a part of the body that often goes unnoticed, until something feels off.
My hope is to bring more awareness, care, and respect to this powerful center, and to remind you that support is available.
If graceful aging, vitality, and deeper connection to your body matter to you, consider spending some intentional time with your pelvic floor. It may be one of the most impactful places to begin.
Upcoming Workshop: Yoni Eggs for Pelvic Floor and Sexual Vitality
Date: Thursday, April 16th
Time: 6:00–7:00 pm
Location: Lawrence Acupuncture + Taoist Arts Collective
1246 Haskell Ave, Lawrence, KSThis class may be especially helpful for women experiencing:
Urinary urgency, leakage, or incontinence
Constipation
Decreased sexual sensation or pleasure
Interstitial cystitis
Frequent UTIs
IBS
Pain with intercourse
Pelvic pain or vaginal spasms
Participants will receive a new and personal yoni egg, safety guidance, handouts, and a class recording.
Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.
Reserve your spot today.
Class series taught by Shahida Spann-Ryan, Master of TCM and a board licensed with ABORM as a specialist in reproductive health. She has profound heartfelt devotion towards helping guide women through the various stages of life with grace and ease.
Take the Next Step
These classes are an invitation to slow down, learn your body’s rhythms, and build sustainable practices that support you for years to come.
Whether you join us for one class or the full series, we look forward to welcoming you into this space of education, connection, and healing.