Postpartum recovery is not a race, it's a journey
As a birth doula and birthing mother of three, I've been fortunate to learn valuable lessons not just from textbooks and courses but also from wise midwives and through witnessing new mothers in their postpartum days. Here is what i've seen work:
Embracing the Fourth Trimester
During the postpartum period, your journey of recovery and rebirth continues, it's often overlooked in our fast-paced world. This is a mistake.
Stop Rushing the Recovery:
Your body needs slow and precious time to heal.
This is not a suggestion and represented by the wisdom of centuries across many different cultures. Slow down now, you won't regret it.
Restoring Life Force
The postpartum period, known as the "fourth trimester," is a crucial phase in a woman's life. It's a time when the focus shifts from pregnancy to postpartum recovery. Labor and childbirth depletes the body of life force and blood.
It's imperative to your health (including your reproductive system) that you replenish and fortify. Research is showing that the way you care for yourself during postpartum period has far-reaching effects, influencing your menstrual cycle, fertility, and even menopause.
Nurturing
A new mother should be cocooned in care for the first 40 days. Your support people will play a pivotal role in your recovery- here's what you need to do and know:
- Rest: Adequate rest is paramount. Sleep is the body's natural healer, and during the postpartum period, it takes on an even more significant role.
- Warmth: Keeping warm is believed to promote healing. Warmth aids the body's recovery process.
- Herbal Teas: Specific herbs are chosen to replenish what has been lost and to support the body's healing. (Check out our tea here)
- Nutritious Soups & Stews: Hearty and nutritious soups and stews are prepared to nourish from within. These meals are rich in essential nutrients and are believed to aid in recovery.
While modern society may not fully embrace this wise and necessary approach to postpartum care it's important for you to make the wise choice to prioritize rest, warmth, herbal teas, and nourishing meals. By doing so you will replenish your body and pave the way for healthier reproductive cycle, fertility, and a brighter menopause.
