The Postpartum Period - a unique and sacred time

As the weather begins to cool and we welcome the transition of seasons, it's essential to consider how we can best support ourselves, particularly during the unique and sacred postpartum period. At Beattie Street, we believe in holistic approaches to health and wellbeing, and one ancient system that offers time tested wisdom, is Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine that originated over 5000 years ago. Ayurveda is often referred to as the "science of life," and it emphasises the importance of nurturing and nourishing the body, mind, and spirit in relation to nature. Ayurveda views the postpartum period as a unique and sacred time and this ancient wisdom offers unique guidance around healing and rejuvenation.

Warmth

One key principle of Ayurveda during the postpartum period is the emphasis on warmth, particularly through warming foods. During the cooler months, our bodies naturally crave warmth and comfort. Incorporating nourishing, cooked foods into your diet can help support digestion, boost energy levels, and promote overall wellbeing. This is particularly important as digestion is weakened after childbirth.

Think of hearty soups, slow-cooked stews, and gently spiced dishes infused with warming spices like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon. These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also help to kindle the digestive fire, known as Agni in Ayurveda, supporting efficient metabolism and nutrient absorption. By aligning your diet with the principles of Ayurveda, you can create a supportive environment for your body to heal and recover after childbirth.

Postpartum nutrition Information session for new parents

To delve deeper into the transformative power of Ayurvedic postpartum care, we invite you to join us for a special session on postpartum nutrition for new parents this coming Tuesday 19th March at 10 am, as part of our Circle of Being educational series.

During this session, we'll explore practical strategies for incorporating Ayurvedic principles into your daily routine, discuss the importance of warming foods for postpartum recovery, and share simple recipes to nourish you and your growing family. This session promises to offer valuable insights and guidance for your postpartum journey, whether you are a new parent, pregnant, or thinking about having a baby.

Practical tips for a nurtured postpartum:

Keep yourself warm! The feet have particular significance in Ayurveda so it’s important to keep your feet warm at all times, particularly during the cooler months and when recovering from birth. Give your feet some love by lathering them in some oil or natural moisturiser and covering with socks.

Warm yourself from the inside out by preparing a simple tea that is good for all different body constitutions (‘tridoshic’). Combined 1 teaspoon each of coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and fennel seeds. Add to 1 litre of boiled water in a flask or thermos and steep for about 15 minutes. Strain and sip throughout the day or leave the spices in the water.