A Day in the Life: Postpartum Confinment

Welcoming a newborn is a beautiful and transformative experience. However, the postpartum period can also be challenging as it demands physical recovery and emotional adjustment. In the Western world it is very common, even celebrated, to aim to “bounce back”. Cultural, financial and social norms often mean mothers go back to work earlier than they should (the US ranks the lowest in the developed world when it comes to parental leave policies). But, through my Vietnamese husband’s family, I have been exposed to a different way of doing things. Deeply rooted in Chinese culture, the ancient practice of 30 days postpartum confinement is common across East Asia and is rapidly gaining popularity in other parts of the world. The practice offers a period of rest, nourishment, and bonding, with an emphasis on the health and well being of the mother. And, while I admit I haven’t been a perfect practitioner (there’s no way you can keep me indoors for a month), I have adopted what works for me and found tremendous value in this change of mindset.

A Glimpse into the Ancient Chinese Practice

Postpartum confinement, traditionally known as "zuo yuezi" in Chinese culture, literally means "sitting the month." This age-old practice dates back to 2000 years and is seen as a crucial time for mothers to recover from childbirth, restore their health, and establish a strong bond with their baby.

The origins of postpartum confinement are rooted in the belief that a woman's body is extremely delicate after giving birth, akin to an open door between life and death. To safeguard against illness and re-establish balance, the practice enforces a strict regimen of staying indoors, consuming specific foods, and engaging in daily routines designed to rejuvenate the mother.

Passed down through generations, these traditions are lovingly upheld by many families today, adapting gracefully to the needs of modern motherhood.

A Day in My Life of Postpartum Confinement

While each day during confinement carries its unique rhythms, here is an example of a slow paced day at home with my newborn:

Mornings

My mornings begin serenely, as I cherish the quiet moments with my baby. After I feed her, I make sure to turn my attention to my toddler before he starts school. We start our day with a nourishing breakfast, such as a warm black sesame porridge, rich in calcium and beneficial for replenishing energy levels. Postpartum meals are delicious and also nutritious for my toddler, so he generally eats what I eat - saving time and dishes.

Afternoons

Lunchtime arrives with a focus on protein-rich meals such as chicken soup with ginger and dates, a staple in the zuo yuezi diet. These ingredients are thought to expel coldness from the body and provide warmth and energy. I also drink bone broth throughout the day. Bone broth is rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support postpartum recovery by aiding in tissue repair, joint health, and overall hydration. Its nutrient-dense and easily digestible properties can help replenish lost nutrients, boost energy, and promote digestive health during the healing process.

I try to spend the afternoons immersed in moments of mindfulness, either cuddling with my baby, napping with her, or engaging in light activities like reading or journaling. It's a soothing time for reflection and appreciating the little milestones my baby achieves each day. This is something i didn’t do with my first and while at the beginning the adjustment was hard, I have noticed a major difference in my energy levels and overall sanity and peace of mind. The calming environment and slower pace have made me more present and appreciative of this time with my baby.

While traditionally women are not meant to leave the house, each afternoon I bundle up the baby in the bassinet and we walk to pick up her big brother from school. This is something I rarely did prior to my confinement. I usually picked him up from school on my way home from work, even though its only a 5 minute walk from home. I’m so grateful for the slower pace and time off to fit in these simple activities that bring us so much joy.

Evenings

Our evenings come with more nourishing meals, such as steamed fish infused with goji berries, which my husband prepares for the whole family and we eat together. I also incorporate calming teas like chamomile or red date tea, which elevate my mood and replenish vital nutrients.

I like to give my toddler time to bond with his sister. We do bath time together, read stories, and cuddle before bed. Once the kids are asleep, my husband and I get some much needed time to ourselves to catch up on the day or watch a movie. Finding time for each other can be a challenge, but this time has served as a reminder of how important it is to make that a priority.

Nourishing Postpartum Meals

The postpartum diet is central to the practice, prioritizing foods that support healing and enrich lactation. Here are some delightful and healthy meals I enjoy:

- Fish Soup with Papaya: Known to enhance milk production, this exotic yet comforting dish boasts a blend of natural sweetness and necessary proteins.

- Black Sesame and Walnut Congee: Filled with healthy fats and antioxidants, this lovely breakfast option is healing and revitalizing.

- Ginger & Red Date Tea: This warm herbal concoction is a staple drink, believed to promote circulation and warmth.

- Lotus Root and Spare Ribs Soup: This earthy soup offers a nourishing blend of vitamins and minerals that soothe and strengthen.

- Bone Broth: rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support postpartum recovery

Gentle Activities for Balance and Recovery

While it's essential to rest, engaging in gentle activities helps maintain mental clarity and emotional well-being. Here are some practices I cherished:

- Light Walking: A short walk around my living room or garden helps alleviate stiffness and elevate my mood.

- Postnatal Yoga: Simple stretches and breathing exercises aid in restoring core strength and flexibility while providing mental calmness.

- Meditation and Reflection: Dedicating time to introspection through meditation or journaling fosters a deeper connection with myself and my baby.

- Soothing Music and Aromatherapy: Engaging my senses with calming scents like lavender and uplifting melodies creates a serene environment for both me and my baby.

Embracing Tradition with Modern Wisdom

Embracing postpartum confinement is about finding harmony between ancient traditions and modern lifestyles. It is a time crafted not only for recovery but also for creating an intimate space where mother and baby can flourish together.

While the practices engrained within zuo yuezi might appear restrictive to some, it’s the love, care, and intention behind them that herald holistic recovery and nurture cherished moments.

As I go through this journey, the bond with my baby becomes ever-stronger, and my own sense of well-being grows richer, leaving me with a gratitude for this thoughtful tradition that values both the heart and health of a new mother.