Holistic healing
Focusing on Post-Pregnancy wellness for moms
The 4th trimester or post-partum more popularly known is also a very significant part of a woman’s life. Even though your focus is on your baby, it’s important to take care of yourself as well.
Post childbirth whether vaginally or by cesarean is taxing for the body. Adequate nourishment is important to recover. A well-balanced diet with adequate carbohydrates, proteins and fats is important. Don’t forget the fibre and micronutrients from your green leafy vegetables. All of them together are going to help you recover.
Besides nutrition, exercise is also important. Gentle physical exercises like walking, yoga and postnatal Pilates can help restore your strength and flexibility. Pelvic and core exercises are also equally important. All of this depends on your type of delivery. So always get a clearance from your gynaecologist before beginning your exercises.
Food and exercise are important but so is your sleep. You may be running behind your newborn but it’s important to get in rest as well. Don’t say no to help. Use your support system to ensure you get adequate rest and recover well.
All of these are important for your physical recovery but it’s also important to be at mental peace as well. Your emotions may be a bit overwhelming, so it’s important to identify them. Here are a few things you can do to maintain your emotional and mental well-being:
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Meditation, deep breathing and mindful exercises can help reduce anxiety.
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Counselling and support can also be useful especially if your showing signs of post-partum blues.
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Activities like journaling, painting, listening to music or anything hobby can provide an emotional release.
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If you are spiritual, then taking sometime for self-reflection, prayer etc. can help find peace.
Remember Post-Pregnancy wellness is not about bouncing back to pre-pregnancy life; it’s about embracing a new phase with resilience and care. By focusing on holistic healing, moms can nurture themselves as they nurture their little ones, ensuring a healthier and happier start to motherhood.
By Dr. Rohan Palshetkar, Head of Unit Bloom IVF, Professor, Dept of OBGy, DY Patil School of Medicine
