Nurturing the New Mother: Ayurvedic Practices for Postpartum Mental Health

Posted on May 31, 2024
Nurturing the New Mother: Ayurvedic Practices for Postpartum Mental Health

Welcoming a new life to this world will be the most exciting chapter in any mother’s life, bringing a great amount of joy and love. But what comes next after childbirth is a challenging phase to pass through. Because it’s the time when there will be changes in mothers, both mentally and physically. The postpartum phase is the period that requires a lot of care, nurturing, and attention for both the mother and baby to ensure their well-being. 

In the Postnatal Ayurvedic Care, a traditional method of Indian medicine has ways that are designed to support new mothers on this new journey by balancing body, mind, and spirit. 

In the ‘Nurturing the New Mother: Ayurvedic Practices for Postpartum Mental Health’ blog, we will explore the methods and benefits of Postnatal care as suggested by the best Ayurvedic doctor in Dubai, Dr Jasnas.

Understanding Ayurvedic Postnatal Care

Ayurveda, a form of medicinal approach, is a combination of two words, Ayur means life, and Veda means knowledge or science. It is rooted back 500 years and originated in India. This ancient Indian medical system works by balancing the body and mind, which is considered an important factor in motherhood.

Ayurvedic postnatal care works mainly around attaining a calm vata. What it means is that when a woman gives birth, there will be many changes that will happen to her body. Mainly the abdomen area, as it is the place where the baby occupies a substantial amount of space. 

Additionally, in order to take care of their babies, they need to sacrifice many things, such as sleep and resting time, which can become factors in fatigue. These problems can be part of Vata's problems. Therefore, it is required to adopt appropriate methods to heal the body.

To attain this, there are a few procedures written in Ayurveda consisting of herbs, oils, foods, and massages that have to be followed for forty-two days post-delivery. Resulting in incredible healing results.  

5 ways of Ayurvedic practices for postpartum mental health for mothers

There are few ayurvedic practices offered by the Ayurvedic to practice for postpartum mental health. To prevent postpartum maladies, Garbhini Paricharya and Sutika Paricharya can be followed. For conditions like postpartum depression and psychosis, special treatment such as Dhee-Dhairya-Atmadi, or ghritam must be given according to one’s condition. Let's discuss a few of them:

Abhyanga

Abhyanga helps to improve muscle tone and enhances the body's complexion. It includes medicated Herbal oils such as Bala taila, pinda taila, etc. Abhyanga also helps in relaxing the mind.

Vethukuli

Vethukuli, or Btahing in Ayurvedic medicated water for about 9-40 days will help you to regain the lost physical and mental strength. It helps in regaining body tissues as well.

Music Therapy

Music is known for its healing remedy for mental health. Mohanam, Hamsadhwani, and Thodi are the ones that induce happiness. If you are sleep-deprived, listen to Ragas like Neelambiri. Music therapy is one of the proven therapies according to many studies.

Takradhara

A procedure in Ayurveda where medicated curd will be poured on your head to regain mental stability. It is known for its cooling and relaxing treatment procedure.

Nasyam

Nasyam is a process of infusing medicated liquids into the nose. This can cross the blood-brain barrier and regain your psychological issues.

Healthy lifestyle

Following a healthy lifestyle is crucial during this period. There are certain things to be followed to cope with postpartum depression.

  • Eat healthy

  • Spend quality time with your family

  • While walking, walk with your baby

  • Take a considerate amount of rest

  • Keep away from alcohol

  • Prepare yourself to face everything

Benefits of Postnatal Ayurvedic Care

1. Accelerated Physical Recovery:

  • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Increases blood circulation, reduces muscle stiffness, and aids in the fast recovery of the body.

  • Herbal Remedies: Hers like turmeric and ashwagandha are used to reduce inflammation and support tissue healing.

2. Hormonal Balance:

  • Diet and Nutrition: Emphasizes warm, easily digestible foods that support hormonal balance, such as ghee, cooked vegetables, and lactation which promotes spices like fenugreek and fennel.

  • Herbal Supplements: Herbs like Shatavari used to regulate hormones and improve reproductive health.

3. Improved Mental Health:

  • Abhyanga (Oil Massage): Reduces stress, soothes the nervous system, reduces stress, and enhances sleep, leading to improved mental clarity and less anxiety.

  • Yoga and Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Exercises like gentle yoga and breathing activities help in reducing postpartum depression and anxiety.

4. Enhanced Lactation:

  • Dietary Practices: Include galactagogue foods and herbs such as fennel, fenugreek, and Shatavari that will increase milk production.

  • Hydration: Focus on the importance of staying hydrated with herbal teas and warm liquids to support the milk supply.

5. Strengthened Immune System:

  • Herbal Remedies: The use of immune-boosting herbs like Tulsi (holy basil) and Ashwagandha helps in boosting the immune system.

  • Balanced Diet: Overall immune health increased with a nutrient-rich diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats supports overall immune health.

6. Improved Digestion:

  • Dietary Adjustments: Focuses on easily digestible foods and spices that increase digestive fire (Agni), preventing digestive issues common in the postpartum period.

  • Herbal Teas: Herbal teas made from cumin, coriander, and fennel help in enhancing digestion and reducing bloating.

7. Emotional Stability:

  • Routine and Rest: Following a daily routine with regular rest periods helps in balancing emotions and reducing postpartum fatigue.

  • Supportive Practices: Practices like meditation and self-care routines increase emotional well-being

By implementing these Ayurvedic practices, new mothers can experience a holistic approach to postpartum care. If you follow these steps correctly, it overall will support physical, mental, and emotional health.

Ayurvedic Post Natal Care is recommended for new mothers as it includes various benefits that can transform your mind and body. Thus, following these Ayurvedic practices can provide both the mother and the baby, the care they need during this hard time and in turn will allow them to heal in no time. 

If you are in search of the best Ayurvedic center in Dubai, Dr Jasnas will be the right option for you.