Bringing a baby into the world is a transformative experience, but the postpartum phase can be just as challenging as pregnancy. I never fully understood the importance of postpartum care until I experienced it firsthand. Traditional Bananthana, an age-old postpartum recovery practice in many Indian households, played a crucial role in my healing, both physically and emotionally.

What is Bananthana?

Bananthana is a structured postpartum recovery period where a new mother is given intensive care, nourishment, and rest. The goal is to help her regain strength, heal from childbirth, and bond with her baby in a stress-free environment. This period typically lasts 40 days but can extend up to three months, depending on cultural practices and personal needs.

Key Practices in Bananthana

1. Warm Oil Massages (Abhyanga)

• Daily body massages with warm herbal oils (Karpuradi Thaila, Sesame oil etc) help relax muscles, improve blood circulation, and reduce postpartum body aches. It also aids in reshaping the body and improving skin elasticity.

2. Bathing Rituals

• After the massage, warm water baths infused with medicinal herbs like turmeric, neem, and fenugreek help soothe the body, reduce inflammation, and prevent infections.

3. Nutrient-Dense Diet

• Food plays a major role in postpartum recovery. Traditional meals include:
  • Ghee-laden foods for strength and digestion.
  • Lactation-boosting ingredients like fenugreek, cumin, and dry fruits.
  • Easily digestible meals like ragi porridge, moong dal khichdi, and herbal soups.

4. Abdominal Binding

• A cotton or muslin cloth is tightly wrapped around the abdomen to support the uterus, aid in shrinking the belly, and provide back support.

5. Limited Physical Activity & Maximum Rest

• The mother is encouraged to rest as much as possible to help her body recover from childbirth. Heavy chores and mental stress are avoided.

6. Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies

• Herbal tonics and decoctions (kashayam) made from medicinal herbs help improve digestion, balance hormones, and boost immunity.

7. Emotional & Mental Well-being

• The presence of elder women, usually mothers or grandmothers, provides emotional support, guidance, and comfort, helping prevent postpartum blues.

How Bananthana Helped Me

Going through postpartum recovery with Bananthana made me realize how essential this care is. The oil massages relieved my body aches and made me feel rejuvenated, while the nutrient-rich diet ensured I regained strength and had enough energy to care for my baby.

The structured rest period was invaluable—it gave my body time to heal and reduced my stress levels. More than anything, I felt cared for and supported, which made the transition into motherhood smoother. And I am so grateful for my support system.

Final Thoughts

Many modern mothers, including me, initially hesitate to follow traditional practices, assuming they are outdated. But experiencing Bananthana firsthand showed me how deeply beneficial it is for both body and mind. If you have the opportunity, embrace it—your body will thank you later!

Did you follow any postpartum traditions? Share your experience below! 💛