Introduction Discover the rich and inspiring postpartum traditions of Haiti, where women actively engage in self-care rituals during this crucial period. From aromatic sitz baths and herbal teas to practices like the "three baths," Haitian culture prioritises warmth, relaxation, and muscle tightening rituals for new mothers. Similar to other cultures around the world, such traditions emphasise the holistic well-being of mothers, drawing parallels with practices found in Traditional Chinese Medicine and other traditional cultures. Explore the shared wisdom across cultures, celebrating the nurturing and empowering postpartum experiences that connects communities around the globe. Confinement Similar to other traditional cultures, new mothers in Haiti rest for 40 days after childbirth. Like Chinese confinement, it is a period of recovery and care...
Around the World Series | Traditional Bangladeshi's postpartum practices. We acknowledge, learn and embrace the practices of Bangladeshi's postpartum traditions, as we learn about the postpartum period, what they eat to nourish themselves in such a joyous time of recovery and their practices and beliefs. IntroductionPregnancy and childbirth in Bangladesh are transformative experiences, deeply rooted in cultural and traditional practices passed down through generations. In this blog, we will explore various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care in Bangladesh, shedding light on their cultural beliefs and practices that make this journey unique and fascinating. It is important to note that while these practices are prevalent in rural areas, urban settings in Bangladesh often exhibit variations, with increased awareness and access...
This month, we embark on a journey to uncover the rich tapestry of postpartum traditions and practices deeply ingrained in the heart of Egypt. In doing so, we illuminate the significance of embracing diverse cultural customs that provide crucial support to mothers during their postpartum period. Join us as we explore the age-old rituals and modern adaptations that shape the Egyptian postpartum experience, fostering a sense of unity, care, and love within families and communities. In Egypt, postpartum traditions and practices are deeply rooted in cultural and Islamic customs, aimed at supporting new mothers and celebrating the arrival of a new family member. Nifass (40-Day Period) In Egypt, postpartum traditions revolve around a 40-day quarantine period, during which new mothers...
This month, we delve into the postpartum traditions of the Taiwanese people, shedding light on the significance of embracing diverse cultural practices to offer mothers the essential support they need on their postpartum journey. In Taiwan, the practice of sitting the month' (坐月子 – zuò yuè zi), also known as postpartum care for mothers, has undergone a remarkable transformation in response to shifting social dynamics. Rooted in tradition, zuò yuè zi (also known as Confinement) traditionally encompassed rest, specialised nourishment, and support from the mother-in-law, driven by high maternal and infant mortality rates. However, Taiwan's modernisation, declining birth rates, and the prevalence of small nuclear families have redefined Confinement practices. Out of this evolution, Confinement Centres have emerged as institutionalised...
This month, we delve into the postpartum traditions of the Māori people, recognising the significance of embracing diverse cultural practices to provide support to mothers during their postpartum journey. Māori individuals relate back to the concept of 'Te Whare Tapa Whā', which simply recognises four elements of health; te taha wairua (a spiritual dimension), te taha hinengaro (a psychic dimension), te taha tinana (a bodily dimension), te taha whanau (a family dimension). These four dimensions working harmoniously together are believed to be a core component to postpartum care within Māori culture. For a mother to be in touch with her spiritual dimension 'te taha wairua', many Māori women feel the need to be connected with their body in order to...
