Ayurveda self-care for the mom-to-be

LIFESTYLE - Pregnancy is a life-altering and energising experience for many women. This journey of bringing life into the world is amazing. But there are emotional and physiological challenges that can place extra stress on the body.

Ayurveda compares conception to the germination and sprouting of a seed into a sapling.

When the sperm and the ovum unite (seed) and the soul enters the union, an embryo (garbha) is formed.

Ayurveda discusses the importance of the quality of the sperm and ovum to form a healthy embryo as well as the soil (uterus), which provides nutrition and the right season (environment) for the seed (embryo) to grow.

There are plenty of Ayurvedic recommendations for diet, behaviour, activities and spiritual actions for the mother and the family to ensure a healthy baby is born.

There are Ayurvedic gynaecologists - but none practise in South Africa.

Therefore, it is better for your obstetrician and Ayurvedic doctor to monitor your pregnancy together.

Is Ayurveda safe during pregnancy?

Yes it is, but ensure you consult with an Ayurvedic doctor who has a Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (Bams) degree. It is not safe to consult with someone who does not have the expertise.

Any medication recommended during pregnancy is mild and it is our aim as practitioners to protect the health of the baby and the mother.

Panchakarma (detoxification) procedures are not done during pregnancy except for basti (enema) towards the end of the third trimester, unless recommended.

Ayurveda also describes nine specific ailments, which are caused because of pregnancy.

They are nausea, anorexia, vomiting, dryness of mouth, fever, oedema, anaemia, diarrhoea and retention of urine.

Their specific treatments are also handled by a qualified (Bams) doctor.

Ayurveda diet for expectant moms

Diet in Ayurveda is important, especially for pregnant women; the extra nutrition is required for the development of the foetus and the lactation period.

The diet should be rich in calories, proteins, vitamins and minerals and it should be balanced according to he pregnant woman’s specific body constitution and needs.

There ares also month-to-month recommendations described in Ayurvedic texts. Consult an Ayurvedic doctor to see what is right for you and your baby.

It is during the fourth month of pregnancy that the foetus’s heart begins to form and it makes known its needs which is often the reason for cravings.

As far as possible, these cravings need to be satisfied within reason - by not causing harm to the baby and the mother.

For example a hypertensive mother should avoid eating foods with excess sodium, etc.

An Ayurvedic diet includes a balance of cereals, lentils, fruit, vegetables, etc. Foods that are cool and nourishing, like ghee and milk, are included.

The diet should be organic, fresh and easily digestible.

Blanched almonds, whole and split mung beans, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, ginger, kale, collard greens and broccoli are also important balancing items to include.

With these foods and spices, the mother and the baby can enjoy vibrant health.

Avoid the following: Junk food, spicy food, undercooked or raw lentils and vegetables, leftovers, aged cheese, artificial flavours, food loaded with preservatives and chemical additives, frozen and canned food, peanuts, garlic, onions, soft drinks, alcohol and marijuana.

Morning sickness

Chamomile tea, peppermint tea, sea oak and ginger are used to treat gestational nausea and vomiting.

As a spice, ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a deep history in the food and pharmaceutical industry.

It is also widely used in traditional medicine, especially in China, Japan, India and Iran to treat various diseases.

There are a number of studies where ginger has been used to treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.

No cases of abortion or an increase in birth defects and maternal complications have been observed after its intake.

Research shows that the impact of ginger in treating nausea and vomiting is caused by anti-cholinergic as well as anti-histamine properties.

A prescribed dose of ginger helps to relieve nausea but check with your doctor before considering it.

Are massages safe during pregnancy?

Massage is safe during pregnancy. However, in some cases, it is not recommended in the first trimester. It is best to consult a doctor for an opinion.

If your doctor gives the go-ahead, there are specific oils that offer nourishment to the body such as sesame oil, mahanarayan oil, balashwagandhadhi, ksheerabala oil, etc. For joint and muscle pain during pregnancy, mahanarayan oil is the best.

Balance, emotional well-being

Everything that surrounds the mother-to-be should promote calmness, serenity and harmony. This is what Ayurveda is all about.

A healthy self-care routine with a balanced diet promotes a healthy body, mind and spirit.

Nature walks, daily oil massage, light exercises, yoga, swimming, journalling and meditation can uplift the pregnant woman’s spirits and leave her feeling satisfied and rested.

Meditation is especially important to calm her mind and relieve her stress because it keeps one grounded.

This also helps build a deeper connection between mother and baby as their biological rhythms align and the baby begins to recognise the mother’s emotions and attitudes.

Research shows that for an easy delivery the mind needs to be relaxed and meditation is the key.

This is also an ideal time to read inspirational and motivational books. It promotes inner reflection and spirituality. A good support system also promotes emotional well-being and helps develop maternal instincts.

Govender is registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa to practise aAyurveda in the country. Her practice is located in Pretoria East. For more information, visit doctortamlyn.com or e-mail [email protected]

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