Among the many branches of Ayurveda, there is one that prepares expectant mothers for pregnancy and birth. How to create a suitable physical and mental environment in a woman for welcoming a baby – this is the essence of Garbha Sanskar, the Ayurvedic approach to pregnancy.
Among the many branches of Ayurveda, there is one that prepares expectant mothers for pregnancy and birth. How to create a suitable physical and mental environment in a woman for welcoming a baby – this is the essence of Garbha Sanskar, the Ayurvedic approach to pregnancy.
In the holistic approach of Garbha Sanskar, it is important to emphasize the mental balance of the expectant mother. This branch of Ayurveda also highlights the importance of the father’s health, alongside the mother’s. The Ayurvedic body constitution depends on the quality of the mother’s egg cell and the father’s reproductive fluid. It is crucial that these cells (egg cell and sperm) are of good quality. What steps can be taken to achieve this?
1. Purification with Panchakarma before Conception
The preparation of the male, and especially the female, body can be facilitated by Ayurvedic deep cleansing therapies, known as Panchakarma. Among Panchakarma treatments, it is important to emphasize the significance of purgation (Virechana), emesis (Vamana), and enema (Basti). These purifying therapies balance the functioning of the doshas, the vital energies influencing the body. Numerous signs indicate when a dosha is imbalanced in the body, such as irregularities in menstruation (painful periods, excessively heavy bleeding, blood clots), or changes in male semen (too thin semen, burning sensation during ejaculation, overly thick, almost sticky semen).
To determine which Panchakarma procedure one should undergo and how to perform it, it is advisable to consult an Ayurvedic expert who can assess the individual’s body constitution and the state of any imbalanced doshas.
Panchakarma treatments aim to eliminate toxins, which must first be dissolved and liquefied before expulsion. Ayurvedic massage treatments, including steaming (Swedana) or herbal poultice massages (Pinda Sweda), assist in this process. These Ayurvedic therapies provide additional support for the body’s release of waste products.
Panchakarma procedures typically last at least 2-3 weeks.
2. Nutrition Following Detoxification
The goal of nutrition following Panchakarma procedures is also to foster healthy and perfect egg cells and sperm. Both reproductive fluids are influenced by the Kapha dosha (the active force circulating water and earth elements), thus an imbalance in the Kapha dosha also leads to an imbalance in these fluids. Foods that most effectively support egg cells and sperm include: milk, curd, figs, ghee, rock candy, dark grape raisins, and dried figs.
Milk strengthens and lubricates our tissues, thereby also fortifying our reproductive cells. It is advisable to consume at least one glass of milk daily. Utilizing the purifying power of ghee (clarified butter), a few drops are added to many dishes during cooking in India. For optimal quality of egg cells and sperm, consuming 2 teaspoons of ghee before each meal is recommended.
Every woman should also pay attention to iron supplementation, as blood loss following menstruation needs to be replenished. Although the amount may be negligible, the blood-forming effect of iron is crucial for strengthening the expectant mother’s body. Iron-rich foods include: dates, red grapes, pomegranate, soaked figs, and spinach.
3. Mental Awareness
Many women have reported that their baby was conceived when a significant change or a sense of calm entered their lives. Conception is hindered by stress, depressive mood swings, feelings of emptiness, and nervousness. Garbha Sanskar advises every woman to surround herself with influences that direct her consciousness towards desired outcomes. This could include continuously listening to meditative music, engaging with spiritual teachings that promote the soul’s state of non-duality, participating in any calming therapy (such as bathing, massage, or relaxing yoga), or reading books about the spiritual mysteries of childbirth and child-rearing.
The relationship between a woman and a man significantly influences the mental state of both individuals. Prior to the conception of a baby, it is beneficial for the couple to resolve any emotional issues between them. Ideally, the baby should be conceived in an environment where parents spiritually uplift each other, rather than attempting to dominate one another. One should not expect a child’s arrival to resolve existing conflicts. While a child brings immense joy, it would be an illusion to suggest that they will alleviate family tensions.
The science of Garbha Sanskar emphasizes the importance of both physical and mental purification. By nurturing the soul, the body will respond accordingly.
