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Around the World Series | Traditional Ethiopian postpartum practices

This month we explore the postpartum traditions of Ethiopia. Through the adoption of one’s own postpartum traditions or acknowledging the wisdom and practices of different cultures, we can provide ourselves with support, grace and tenderness as we transition into motherhood.   Some of the ways in which postpartum traditions are embraced in Ethiopian culture: Postpartum period and provision of food Cold shower Genfo The seventh or twelfth day in the sun POSTPARTUM PERIOD The new mother is expected to rest at home for 40 days. She is expected to be sexually inactive and use this time to heal and regain her strength. During this time the husband, family, friends and neighbours are responsible for providing mama with nourishing and suitable...

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Around the World Series | Filipino's Postpartum Tradition

Around the World Series | Traditional Filipino postpartum practices.​​​​​​​​ We acknowledge, learn and embrace the practices of Fillipino postpartum traditions, as we learn about the postpartum period, what they eat to nourish themselves in such a joyous time of recovery, Colostrum: The First Milk Myth', Burying the 'Inunan' Placenta, Breech Baby and Usog. POSTPARTUM PERIOD After giving birth, a mother enters a pivotal transitional period known as post-partum. In these 4-6 weeks, she must regain strength in mind, body, and emotion, while adjusting to new domestic and social roles. Many things can help a mother during postpartum, including support from family and healthcare providers, avoiding complications, eating a balanced diet, and having a safe and clean environment. It's also important...

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Around the World Series | Japanese Postpartum Tradition

This month we explore Japan's postpartum traditions. Through the adoption of one's own postpartum traditions or acknowledging the wisdom and practices of different cultures, we can provide ourselves with support, grace and tenderness as we transition into motherhood. Some examples of practices and rituals found as part of Japanese culture: Maternity leave Pre-Birth Delivery of Baby Postpartum Period Nourishment Bathing MATERNITY LEAVE Under the Japanese Labor law, Japanese mothers are guaranteed 6 weeks of maternity leave before the due date as well 8 weeks of maternity leave after baby arrives. If the mother wishes to return to work earlier, the mother must obtain written approval from her doctor. PRE-BIRTH 'Satogaeri shussan' is a Japanese custom where the mother to be...

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Around the World Series | Indonesia

This month we explore Indonesia's postpartum traditions. Through the adoption of one's own postpartum traditions or acknowledging the wisdom and practices of different traditions, we can provide ourselves with support, grace and tenderness as we transition into motherhood. Some examples of practices and rituals found as part of Indonesian culture: Pre - Birth Nourishment Post-Birth Herbal Steam Bath Jamu massage & Bengkung   PRE-BIRTH During the seventh month of pregnancy, the ritual of 'Siraman' and 'Sungkeman' is observed. Siraman is when the mother to be is bathed in holy water filled with seven flowers, this holy ritual is usually initiated by the eldest member of the family. Sungkeman is when the parents of the baby ask their parents for forgiveness;...

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Around the World Series | Korea

This month we explore Korea's postpartum traditions. Through the adoption of different cultural postpartum traditions, together as a community, we can provide support to mamas during their postpartum journey. Some examples of practices and rituals found as part of Korean culture: Ayurveda Nourishment Bathing Post-Birth POSTPARTUM PERIOD In Korean culture, women follow the "Saam (three)-chil (seven)-il(days) ritual. This simply means that new mothers are encouraged to take the time to rest and recuperate for the first three weeks post birth. Visitors are prohibited during this time, to allow mothers to appreciate and embody the "Saam-chil-il" ritual. After delivery of baby, mothers are commonly kept in a warm heated room, even in the summer seasons. It is believed keeping your body...

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