Creating a Cozy Postpartum Cove after Birth
A cove is a small, sheltered bay or inlet along a coastline, naturally protected from the turbulence of the open sea. For a new mother, this represents a space where she can find refuge from the overwhelming demands of the outside world and navigate this new relationship with her baby. After childbirth, a mother is often in a vulnerable state, both physically and emotionally. The concept of a cove reflects a place where she can rest, shielded from external pressures and expectations, allowing her to focus inward on healing and bonding with her newborn.
Steps to Create a Peaceful & Practical Atmosphere
So, how do we set up a cozy cove for a new mom? Start with intentional areas in the home that reflect a nurturing, private, comfortable and safe space just like a cove tucked away from the wild waves. Think all things Hygge, the Danish and Norwegian term that means; a cozy quality that makes a person feel content and comfortable.
Dim Lighting
Instead of bright overhead lighting, create dim lighting with string lights, small table lamps, LED candles, the fireplace, or natural light from outside to encourage relaxation and tranquility.
Comforting Surroundings
Just as a seabird will build a cozy nest or a sea otters will snuggle up on the kelp beds, a new mother should create a comfortable hideaway after birth. Think lots of pillows, soft and breathable fabrics for your bedding and clothes, such as linen, cotton and wool. Wear luxurious loungewear that makes you feel cozy when you put it on. Bengkung belly binding and Ayurvedic belly binding can provide postural comfort and support for the torso and organs as they return to pre-pregnancy position.
Warmth
A warm body after birth encourages physical healing and rest and aids the body in digestion. You can utilize the benefits of warmth with wool socks, turning on the fireplace, hot water bottles, using heating pads and blankets. Warm showers, herbal foot baths and sitz baths are also all wonderful tools to promote rest and rejuvenation.
Serene Sounds
Try to aim for multiple periods during the day where you retreat to a quiet space to calm your nervous system and recalibrate. Turn on gentle music and turn off background noise such as TV’s and appliances. We know parents with other young children can’t always achieve total quiet…and that’s ok! Control what you can and create periods of rest as often as possible. When your postpartum doula comes over, make sure to retreat away for a nap or quiet time with a cup of tea.
Nourishment
When choosing meals and beverages, consider warm and nutrient dense items such herbal teas, oatmeal, congee, kitchari, bone broth, soups and stews during those first few months. Setting up a meal train or using a meal delivery services make this an easier way to get adequate nourishment. *Use code NATLBABYCO20 for $20 off your first order of $200+ from Mama Meals!
Tidy Convenience
Keep the clutter to a minimum and have your support person(s) keep the areas around where you clean and organized. Tuck woven baskets or tiered carts around the house that have what you need! Stations in the living room, bedroom and bathroom that are stocked with yummy snacks, baby care items, postpartum healing supplies and entertainment will reduce the overwhelm and aid in a peaceful postpartum .
Remember this is time for a Gentle Transition
A cove represents a gentle space of transition between the open ocean and the shore, much like the postpartum period is a delicate transition between pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. The cove reflects the idea that this time doesn’t have to be rushed or filled with stress. It’s a time for slowing down, reflecting, and adjusting, while still being gently cradled by the nurturing support team around her.
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