Bathing, a ritual for Postpartum

Postpartum Bathing Ritual

One of the most valuable tools you can keep in your postpartum toolkit is an herbal bath or sitz bath for mamas with c-sections.

Bathing is a sacred, time-honored tradition for its deeply rejuvenating and cleansing properties. In many cultures, water is used to purify as part of a rite of passage.

When used with the intention of healing baths or bathing ceremonies are a beautiful opportunity to reclaim balance within the body, reduce pain, and swelling, and prevent infection and bleeding after labor and delivery.

During bathing ceremonies, mothers have the opportunity to “return” to the non-pregnant stay and honor the transition that is upon them with mindfulness and a sense of deep appreciation for the feat she has endured emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Many postpartum rituals are done around the world. In Moroccan traditions, the mother is bathed and exfoliated from head to toe with natural clays and soaps, then rubbed with olive oil to heal and relax the body after a long, exhausting labor.

Baths are one way to introduce herbs into the body through the skin. In Ayurveda postpartum care, a variety of different herbs(each one selected for their healing qualities) are boiled in water and reduced in half to improve their effectiveness. Herbs like Ashwagandha can be used for deeply rejuvenating the nervous system, Yarrow to reduce cramping, Lavender to calm and relax and Uva Ursi to reduce inflammation. Mama can then soak for twenty to thirty minutes in a full bath, sitz bath, or even a foot soak to receive the benefits.

To receive maximum benefits and promote a deeply rejuvenating self-care routine I suggest beginning with an Abhyanga massage prior to bathing.

It is always recommended that you consult with your doctor prior to make sure you are healed from any surgery or tears during labor and delivery.

Want to learn more or purchase a blend of herbal bath soaks? Contact