If you are expecting a little one any time soon, chances are, you are concerned about your health and the health of your baby. Even if you have no major illnesses or injuries, the health of you and your baby will be of chief concern during your pregnancy. (I remember mine quite well!)
Prior to getting pregnant
It is optimal for both soon-to-be parents to detox their bodies as much as possible. Panchakarma is highly recommended. Above all else, relax! I can tell you from personal experience that, the more you worry, the less likely you are to become pregnant. Just stay calm. It will happen when and as it should (providing you don’t have any fertility issues). And as with the rest of your pregnancy, you must eat healthy. It is all the more difficult for your body to nurture a new life, if you are not eating properly.
There is an old system of birth prediction in Ayurveda that is still practiced in south India, and is very similar to the Chinese birth chart you can find on the internet. Basically, it says, if you want a boy, you should get pregnant on day 10, 12, 14 or 16 of your menstrual cycle. If you want a girl, you should conceive on day 9, 11, 13, or 15. I don’t know how much truth there is to this, but what the heck. It’s fun to try!
Once you are pregnant
Ghee is very beneficial during pregnancy. However, you should see an Ayurvedic practitioner to know exactly when and how much you should consume. This wonderful buttery oil is very beneficial for both mother and fetus.
Be sure to apply oil to your belly every day, beginning the moment you find out you are pregnant. This is the only way to minimize stretch marks. There are various oils that people will swear by, but the most important thing is to use a natural oil, and to apply it daily, even before you begin to show. Use oil, not lotion.
After the first trimester, it is safe to have prenatal massage, and you should have one on a regular basis. Avoid ALL massage during your first trimester (even the massage part of a manicure or pedicure!) as this can induce a miscarriage. Sorry ladies, your husbands can’t massage your feet during this time.
After birth
There are various herbal remedies that will help your body recover from birth. There are also techniques used in massage that can help your tummy get back to normal, and help your lower back recover. It is best to see an Ayurvedic doctor for these recommendations.
I can tell you in my own experience, that caring for yourself after birth is one of the hardest, yet most important things you can do. All you can think about is, caring for your baby, and getting some sleep! But beyond that, you must be kind to yourself, and give yourself at least 6 months to recover completely. Avoid returning to work for as long as possible. Allow others to help you around the house. Avoid trying to do it all yourself. Rely on family and friends to help you. This is vital to your recovery.
I wish you and your little one, all the best in life.
Namaste,
Tiffany
Personal Alchemy
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Like this blog?
Personal Alchemy now offers our blog “feed-style”!
Never miss a post by subscribing today. Simply click below.
Subscribe to Personal Alchemy Feed
__________________________________________________
Want more information on the Ayurvedic lifestyle?
Click here to sign up for our free newsletter!
_________________________________________________
