Common Mistakes Mothers Make During the First 40 Days

The first few weeks after giving birth are a hectic period of feeding and trying to catch up on sleep. In many households in Kerala, the customary 40-day period of care allows the mother to recover and others help with food, home duties and the newborn. But recovery doesn’t always go as planned. Some women […]

Newborn Baby Massage Benefits: An Ayurvedic Guide

In the first weeks of life, a baby makes small discoveries: the sound of a parent’s voice, the warmth of being held, the comfort of familiar touch. In many Kerala families, gentle oil massage is part of the traditional care given to babies at this time. Baby massage in Kerala is often associated with Ayurvedic […]

What Is Prasava Raksha? Traditional Kerala Postpartum Care Explained

In many households in Kerala, the weeks after delivery are no different, with the regular pattern of warm food for the mother, aid with the infant, respite from domestic chores and traditional care by the family. It is a phase widely known as prasava raksha. Prasava Raksha in Kerala refers to the customary care given […]