Why The First 40 Days After Birth Are So Important

In many cultures around the world, the first 40 days after birth (postpartum) is an essential time for the health of the mother and child. In South America, Europe (Greece), the Middle East and Asia, a 40-day rest period is considered mandatory after an infant’s birth. In this time the mother is not expected to leave the house, cook food, or do anything but bond with her infant. It is of utmost importance that the mother along with the newborn, get exceptional care during this time. Childbirth leaves a woman’s body weakened & depleted due to the loss of blood, fluids & energy. It is important for the new mother to nourish herself with food, rest, warmth, and support so that she is able replenish the blood, fluids & energy to continue to care for herself and her child.

Things as simple as resting as much as possible, eating nourishing and warming foods such as soups and stews with blood building foods: high quality meats, beets, leafy greens etc) and keeping warm, particularly the feet (wearing sock or slippers) are extremely beneficial.

Proper nourishment and healing post birth ensure that the mother lives a happy and healthy life and doesn't leave her weakened and susceptible to illnesses in the future.

Nutrition is not only about the foods you are consuming. Nourishing your body through rest and warmth is pertinent to restoring balance during the postpartum period.

WHAT ASSISTS A NEW MOTHER IN HER RECOVERY IN THE POSTPARTUM PERIOD:

Herbal Medicine
Acupuncture/ Acupressure
Keep warm, with warm clothes, socks and heat bags/ water bottles
Eat blood building foods (listed below)
Proper nutrition - organic, seasonal, whole foods
Reach out to those around you and get help when needed- whether with food, cleaning, caring for other children, breastfeeding support and mental or physical health
Eat only warming foods (Very minimal cold, raw foods or foods and drinks cold out of the fridge)
Resting as much as possible
Hydration- good quality water
Avoid cold places and draughty conditions
Eat plenty of soups and stews
Minimal visitors (if any) & not leaving the house unless essential and for at least the first 2 weeks
Avoid greasy, fatty, sugary, processed, artificial foods