WHY CONSIDER POSTPARTUM SUPPORT?

Your postpartum period takes thought and planning. Many families view planning for the birth and the journey to your baby being born as the finish line - when actually, Birth is just the beginning.

“Birth is the beginning, but postpartum is the foundation on which a whole lifetime of mothering rests” - Abi Missen

The first 40 days of postpartum shapes the next 40 years for you. In many ancient cultures from all corners of the world they practice a period called ‘sitting in’ for the first 40 days after birth. This is exactly as it sounds, ‘sitting in’ at home. A time of rest, little stimulation, deep nourishment and bonding with your baby and very limited visitors.

During this time women are taken care of by their support network, aka ‘village’. They are cooked and fed nourishing food, kept warm, staying hydrated and all forms of work and stress are minimised. A time of deep rest and recovery. This period for centuries has been recognised as such an important and crucial period that shapes a woman's physical and mental health for the postpartum period and beyond. Research now backs this time of deep healing and rest.

Mothers that feel supported and nourished in this initial 40 days have reported to have a quicker postpartum recovery, have lower rates of postpartum blues and overall enjoy the transition to motherhood and beyond.

So when you’re creating your Baby Shower Gift Registry that is all about baby items, don't forget to include yourself on this list. Ask people to put money towards a Postpartum Doula, a cleaner, a meal delivery service etc.

“I believe that if your newborn baby could choose what gift they wanted most for their baby shower or birth, it would be a rested, nourished, & well supported mother - Cassie De Vellis x