Why 40 Days of Postpartum Healing – 7 Tips for New Mothers

Bringing a new life into the world is magical. But for every new mother, this journey is also physically exhausting and emotionally overwhelming. In many traditional cultures, especially in India, the first 40 days after childbirth are considered sacred. This time is meant for a mother’s healing, bonding with the baby, and rebuilding her strength.

What is it with 40 days? Well, it takes at least six weeks for a body to recover after pregnancy and childbirth, regardless if that is to regain strength, stabilize hormones, or repair tissue. When women neglect this transitional time, it is common to deal with exhaustion, mood swings, or even complications with long-term health. 

Let’s look at seven tips to make this 40-day healing time easier, healthier, and more empowering.

1. Rest is Your Best Friend

During pregnancy and delivery, your body goes through incredible changes—blood loss, hormonal shifts, stretched muscles, and sleepless nights. Rest is non-negotiable.

• Nap when the baby naps instead of trying to finish chores.
• Accept help from family or friends.
• Create a calming space with minimal distractions.

Think of these 40 days as a healing retreat for your body. Resting doesn’t make you lazy—it makes you stronger for the journey ahead.

2. Eat Healing Foods

Food is medicine in the postpartum phase. Your body needs warm, nutrient-rich meals that help with:

• Wound healing (if you’ve had stitches or C-section).
• Improving lactation.
• Boosting immunity and energy.

Foods to include:

• Ghee: Provides healthy fats and energy.
• Laddus made from dry fruits, fenugreek, and garden cress seeds: These dry fruit laddoos help restore strength and balance hormones.
• Green leafy vegetables: Aid digestion and provide iron.
• Lentils and legumes: Great vegetarian protein sources.
• Warm herbal teas: Soothe digestion and calm the mind.

Avoid cold, processed, or oily foods that slow recovery.

3. Gentle Postpartum Massage

Massage has been integral to traditional postpartum care for hundreds of years. A gentle oil massage:

• Enhances blood circulation
• Soothes sore muscles
• Helps with better sleep
• Decreases anxiety and stress

Sesame or coconut oils are optimal. If possible, hire a professional postpartum massage therapist who knows what they are doing.

4. Support Lactation with Herbs & Foods

Breastfeeding can feel challenging at first, especially when a mother is going through after delivery periods. To encourage milk production and reduce fatigue, include galactagogue-rich foods:

• Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) – balances hormones, boosts lactation.
• Fenugreek seeds – improve milk flow.
• Fennel seeds – aid digestion and support lactation.

Hydration is equally important. Keep a bottle of warm water nearby at all times.

5. Gentle Movements & Breathing

Although it’s not advisable to perform heavy exercise in the first 6 weeks, you can still perform light activities to help your body recover faster. 

• Practice deep breathing to help relax your mind. 
• Begin strengthening your pelvic floor (Kegels) to rebuild core stability. 
• When your doctor gives you clearance, start with slow walking. 

The goal isn’t to lose weight immediately—it’s to restore strength gradually.

6. Emotional Care Matters Too

Postpartum isn’t just physical—it’s deeply emotional. Hormonal changes, sleepless nights, and new responsibilities can cause anxiety or baby blues.

What helps?

• Talk openly to your partner, family, or friends.
• Join a new mom’s group for shared experiences.
• Journal your feelings instead of bottling them up.
• Seek professional support if sadness feels overwhelming.

Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

7. Build a Strong Support System

The “village” concept exists for a reason—no mother should have to recover alone, especially during her periods after normal delivery. Surround yourself with people who uplift you. This includes:

• Family members who can take care of meals and chores.
• Friends who visit not just to see the baby, but to check on you.
• A healthcare provider who regularly tracks your healing.

When mothers feel supported, both their physical and mental recovery improve significantly.

Bonus: Bond with Your Baby

The 40 days also allow for uninterrupted bonding. Skin-to-skin contact, gentle lullabies, and breastfeeding aren’t just good for the baby—they help mothers release oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which reduces stress and speeds up recovery.

Key Takeaways

• Postpartum recovery isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.
• The 40-day healing period allows your body and mind to reset.
• By resting well, eating nourishing foods, and staying emotionally supported, new mothers can emerge stronger and healthier.

Think of these 40 days as an investment in lifelong health. Prioritizing yourself doesn’t take away from your baby—it ensures you’re the healthiest version of yourself for your child.