The Golden Month: Origins, Definition and Tips for Implementing It
In a society that is finally lifting the veil on the reality of postpartum, let us rejoice to see the emergence of this ancestral tradition that we call "Golden Month". Behind this pretty and delicate name hides an equally gentle philosophy: that of taking care of a new mother during the weeks following childbirth. So, dream or reality? We tell you how to set up the famous " Golden Month " .
What is the golden month?
Based on the principle that one is not born a mother but rather becomes one, the Golden Month is a parenthesis dedicated to this transformation. The first weeks following childbirth are intense in emotions and upheavals, yet for decades women have been prey to certain injunctions. The Golden Month reinstates the importance of taking the time and taking care of the new mother as much as the newborn. Between the yo-yo hormones, the body that must recover little by little, fatigue and sometimes isolation… The physical and especially mental health of new mothers has been largely forgotten. All the more reason to practice the Golden Month for a few weeks. A period where we surround ourselves to receive care, rest and not worry as much as possible about the mental load.
The ancestral origins of the golden month
Although the concept has been emerging in France for about 5 years, it is a Chinese tradition that dates back more than 2000 years... In Chinese medicine, postpartum is a period that lasts approximately 30 to 40 days during which the mother is completely at rest. Moreover, the "Golden Month" called " Zuo Yuezi " also translates as "sitting for a month." During this cycle, physical exertion is limited, all stress is prohibited, and it is recommended to warm the body and mind by all means. The goal? For the woman to bond with her baby, establish breastfeeding if she wishes, and for her body to repair itself. We are really talking about Chinese medicine because this philosophy allows us to take care of the physical and mental health of new mothers. The Golden Month concludes with a ritual bath, a symbol of rebirth as a mother. Chinese women still follow this tradition today, regardless of their means or social status. It is very bad form not to respect it!
How to set it up properly?
The key is, of course, to anticipate if you can! Just as you prepare for the baby's arrival, it would be better to prepare for the postpartum period in advance. Since the golden month boils down to maximum rest for the mother, each parent can try to address this issue according to their means. There are as many golden months as there are parents, but if we had to summarize: you have to surround yourself. Either through the help of loved ones: friends, parents, family... Or professionals like doulas, midwives, lactation consultants... Or through the establishment of parental leave for the spouse, the search for night nurses, the delivery of meals specially prepared for the postpartum period. Finally, setting up the golden month means creating a comforting and supportive circle in the truest sense of the term, to soften this very special period as much as possible.
The Importance of Postpartum Nutrition
In Chinese medicine and Zuo Yuezi, nutrition plays a crucial role in the postpartum period. Foods are carefully chosen, served hot, and cooked by one of the people caring for mom and baby during the first 30 to 40 days. In France, postpartum nutrition is becoming increasingly popular. We're finally talking about the good nutrients that will soothe the body, repair tissues, and warm the muscles. The star of these first weeks: hot broths, but also the importance of the collagen contained in bone broths! The ideal is to organize yourself to freeze these recipes or to have a mother-in-law, grandmother, friend, home chef, or any other helper come and cook at your home. Or find a delivery service near your home for meals prepared especially for new mothers and their postpartum period...
What are the benefits of the golden month?
Pregnancy and childbirth are both upheavals for the body and mind, which end up exhausted! The Golden Month is a break to rest and thus gradually regenerate. Having the mental and psychological space to meet and discover your baby, establishing a connection with him or her little by little... The Golden Month allows you to slow down in a society that would like time to fly by. Finally, it is a practice absolutely focused on women's health, which strengthens their self-esteem and reduces the risk of postpartum depression. Finally, a young mother who takes the time to rest will be able to better understand the rest of the first (oh so intense) months with a baby, a return to work and the search for a new family and romantic balance.
In conclusion, the Golden Month meets the primary needs of new mothers after giving birth. It's a beneficial practice for the couple, for the parent-baby bond, and for the mental health of mothers, who are often put to the test. Be careful, however, it shouldn't be just another item on an already busy to-do list! It's a practice that adapts to the personalities and needs of each person without any pressure. Want more information? There are wonderful books and a website to learn how to practice it during the first few weeks: lemoisdor.fr
