Postpartum and postnatal ayurvedic massage

The postpartum period is a time rich in emotions for the young mother. She has many challenges to overcome. Ayurveda can help her to manage this new life through diet or massages.

Postpartum and increased Vata dosha

Ayurveda recommends that young mothers implement a certain lifestyle. Childbirth, which consists of an opening of the body, considerably increases the Vata dosha. This increase can result in digestion problems (bloating, gas, constipation), stress, fatigue, dryness or even sleep problems.

Ayurveda therefore recommends having a diet that pacifies the Vata dosha. It is advisable to favor hot, creamy and well-cooked foods (soups, dahls, stews, etc.). Certain Ayurvedic dishes and foods are strongly recommended during this period such as kitchari, golden milk or even ghee.

In terms of spices, it is recommended to consume ginger, cinnamon, cardamom and turmeric. On the other hand, anything cold such as raw vegetables and cold drinks are not recommended because they increase the Vata dosha.

Postpartum and support for the young mother

The postpartum period can be more difficult to apprehend today in our modern and Western societies. Indeed, the young mother, or the couple, often feel overwhelmed in this new adventure. They often find themselves alone having to manage the cooking, the maintenance of the home, the shopping, possibly the education of the elders, all while taking care of the newborn and themselves.

In India, as in other countries, the mother is very surrounded during the first months of the newborn. The family comes to help with shopping, meals, the other children and the house. Thus, she “only” has to take care of herself and her baby, which allows her to rest.

Ayurveda therefore recommends asking those around you for help. These can be relatives, friends, family members in order to delegate tasks that could be carried out by someone other than the mother. For example, if your friends come to visit you to see your newborn, instead of them bringing you baby clothes, ask them to cook you a nice meal.

If this is not possible, you can also turn to a doula. The job of a doula consists of supporting the woman during her pregnancy or postpartum. Their support may consist of emotional, physical or logistical support.

Postpartum and massages

Massage is one of the best tools for pacifying the Vata dosha.

You can simply massage your body with hot oil using self-massage. Even if it's just a few minutes a day.

There is also postnatal Ayurvedic massage. This lymphatic massage is suitable for postpartum. It is aimed at the young mother who has just given birth (from the 4th day after giving birth) and who is breastfeeding her baby. The movements are soft, slow and enveloping. They follow the circulation of the lymph.

The hot oil warms the body and the massage soothes the mind. This treatment stimulates lymphatic circulation. It thus increases the immune system, drains and decongests the body. Massage can also help with breastfeeding. The skin is deeply nourished and hydrated thanks to the oil. It helps relax and unwind the young mother who takes a moment for herself. Furthermore, massage promotes proprioception, that is to say awareness of one's body. It allows her to become aware of her new postpartum body and to better tame it.

Postnatal Ayurvedic massage

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