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Garbh Sanskar Practices
As you prepare yourself for pregnancy, you gradually rediscover your inner strength. You need to take care of yourself so that the baby inside you is born as a healthy and capable child who can face the pressures of our increasingly complex world. An Ayurvedic solution to this situation has slowly gained momentum — a process called Garbh Sanskar.
What is Garbh Sanskar?
Every parent wants the best for their child. A healthy pregnancy is necessary to ensure the baby’s well-being after birth too. Garbh Sanskar has gained popularity as an enabler for the mental and physical development of the baby.
The knowledge of Garbh Sanskar dates back to ancient scriptures and is included in the Ayurveda. The word Garbh in Sanskrit refers to the foetus in the womb, and Sanskar means education of the mind. So, Garbh Sanskar translates into the process of educating the mind of the unborn baby. It is traditionally believed that a child's mental and behavioural development starts in the womb as it can be influenced by the mother’s emotional state while she carries the baby. The practice has been a part of Hindu tradition since time immemorial and is evidenced by stories of how Garbh Sanskar had a very positive effect on mythological characters like Abhimanyu, Astabakra and Prahlad who were enlightened in their mother’s womb.
It might sound odd but ask any mother and she is sure to tell you that bonding with the baby starts as soon as one conceives. That is why you see mothers speaking to their baby bump or even making an effort to think good thoughts or do things that soothe the baby. While most pregnant mothers do it as a feel-good factor, it does have more deep-rooted benefits too.
There is now a growing body of scientific evidence that supports the practices related to Garbh Sanskar and its effect on the unborn child. Modern studies have proved that a foetus can respond to external stimulus. In fact, the hormonal secretions activated by the mother’s thoughts can also impact the baby in her womb.
Thus while Garbh Sanskar is believed to benefit the baby, it is not focused solely on the child. These practices ensure that the mother is healthy and in a positive state of mind. Activities such as changes in diet and lifestyle are recommended to pregnant women through the practice of Garbh Sanskar.
When to Start Garbh Sanskar while Pregnant
Garbh Sanskar is not only about the care taken during pregnancy, but about starting preparations at least a year before conception. Garbh Sanskar covers pre-pregnancy, pregnancy as well as the breastfeeding phase, guiding parents until the child is about 2 years old.
Different Prenatal Education Practices
References to Garbh Sanskar can be found in ancient Hindu Puranas and the Vedas. But the practice is not limited to India alone! Different cultures around the world encourage nurturing the bond between the mother and the growing baby, which is similar to the concept of ‘education in the womb.' Mothers in western countries often listen to classical music like that of maestros like Mozart to make their child ‘unbelievably smart’.
The wisdom of Garbha Sanskar can be assessed from the fact that several modern prenatal practices are derived from it. These include:
Autosuggestion and hypnosis: These are meditation techniques which occupy the mind with an idea that can turn into reality
Colour therapy: This includes the use of light and colour to balance the mind. Certain colours can uplift the mood and have a positive effect on the mind
Aromatherapy: This uses the sense of smell that sharpens the senses, and soothes the body and the mind. Essential oils and other aromatics may be used to help the mother de-stress
List of Garbh Sanskar Activities for Pregnant Women
According to Ayurveda, Garbh Sanskar is one of the best ways to give birth to a healthy baby. It's all about the mother maintaining a sound state of mind, not only mentally, but physically, emotionally and spiritually as well. Ayurvedic Garbh Sanskar suggests certain guidelines to keep in mind for the pregnant mother. These include:
1. Healthy Eating Habits
The dietary regime is an essential aspect of pregnancy, as the growth of the foetus depends upon the health and nutrition of the mother. According to Ayurveda the Ahara-rasa, which is nutrition or energy obtained from the mother’s diet, helps in the nourishment of the mother herself, the growth of the baby and preparation for formation of breast milk. A balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals is recommended to this end. The garbh sanskar foods in pregnancy should have a balanced amount of calcium, folic acid and iron.
Garbh Sanskar food in pregnancy includes Sattvik food which refers to freshly prepared nutrient-rich food that includes all five tastes, namely, sweet, salty, pungent, bitter and sour. Ayurveda recommends the consumption of Panchamrut, which is beneficial for boosting potency and immunity. This is made with one spoon curd, honey, sugar and two spoons of ghee or clarified butter mixed with eight spoons of milk. Abstinence from addictive substances is advised.
2. Positive Thinking
Pregnancy can make you moody and irritable. Garbh Sanskar helps you manage your emotions which is good, both for the mother and the baby. You could cultivate a hobby or just do things that make you happy.
3. Practising Yoga or Some Form of Light Exercise
Garbh Sanskar recommends that pregnant women take up some light form of exercise or yoga for the physical well-being of both the mother and the child. Here are the benefits of exercise:
Pranayama breathing exercises help to calm and relax the body while preparing you for breath-control during childbirth
Light exercise increases flexibility, improves blood circulation and reduces backaches during pregnancy
Specific Garbh Sanskar yoga asanas boost the mother’s chances of having a full-term normal delivery with minimal labour pain
4. Meditation
Meditation is an important aspect of Garbh Sanskaar and is beneficial for the body as it de-stresses the mind. It involves getting into the ‘zero state of mind’, which can help bring peace and tranquillity, and enhance concentration. Visualising good things about the baby while you meditate is also a great way to bond and think positively, which can help both you and the baby.
5. Prayer
Praying is an important part of Garbh Sanskar , and is believed to be good for the spiritual development of the baby. Ancient scriptures contain mantras and shlokas which are beneficial for unborn babies. The prayers that are chanted bless the baby with good health and moral values and are an essential part of spiritual beliefs.
6. Listening to Music Which Brings Peace to the Mind
Garbh Sanskar states that a baby can respond to music while in the mother’s womb. In fact, ancient literature says that a baby starts hearing and responding to its surroundings from the seventh month of pregnancy. This is why the mother should listen to melodious music which calms her. Soft and spiritual songs or mantras and shlokas are said to be beneficial for both the mother and the child.
7. Reading Calming or Spiritual Books
Garbh Sanskar recommends reading spiritual books, which bring about a feeling of contentment and satisfaction. In fact, Garbh Sanskar also stresses on the fact that reading educational books shapes the personality of the child in the womb. It is believed that reading when pregnant can help pass on the wisdom to the unborn child. Books with moral values or mythological stories are recommended, but you can always choose another book you enjoy reading!
8. Keeping the Mind Relaxed and Happy
As per Garbh Sanskar, the mother should not indulge in activities or practices which stress her out. Taking undue stress or watching or reading things which scare or worry you are not recommended during pregnancy as there they trigger the release of hormones which may have an adverse effect on the foetus. Try and be physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually contented during the nine months for the sake of your baby!
9. Consuming Herbal Ghee during Pregnancy
Medicated ghee made from cow’s-milk ghee is recommended during the 4th, 5th, 7th, 8th and 9th month of pregnancy by Ayurveda. It is said to be beneficial for the mental and physical development of the baby and can help prevent congenital abnormalities in the foetus. According to Ayurveda, medicated ghee might also help the mother have a full-term normal delivery. However, do consult your doctor as every pregnancy is not the same.
10. Channel your Creativity
Being creative during pregnancy not only keeps your mind occupied, but as per Garbh Sanskar, creativity can be passed on to your baby as well. Hobbies like knitting, painting, gardening or even pottery can help in busting stress and keep you happy.
Benefits of Garbh Sanskar during Pregnancy
It is up to the mother to shape up the first impressions of the baby. Positive thinking and a positive attitude can go a long way in ensuring the mental and physical well-being of the mother, which is linked to the well-being of the baby inside her womb as well. Garbh Sanskar helps develop that eternal bond between the mother and her unborn child.
While experts encourage practicing Garbha Sanskar for the well-being of the mother, there are also long-term benefits for the baby that might not immediately be recognised. Communication with the baby is 'garbha sanwaad' that contributes to the mental growth of the baby and helps to build a strong bond with the mother.
Listening to music and reading to the unborn child can later help make your baby a sound sleeper or induce better sleeping habits. Your baby might become more alert, aware and confident. The baby might also respond to stimulus better and be more active and content. The mother-baby bonding also benefits as your baby might even begin breastfeeding in a better way.
How Garbh Sanskar Music Helps Your Child
Since it is believed that a foetus can respond to external stimuli, especially from the seventh month onwards, the therapeutic effect of music can play an essential role according to Garbh Sanskar. The nearest sound for the baby is the mother’s heartbeat, and that is why it is believed that a crying baby can be soothed by holding him or her close to the chest. As the child hears something familiar, it can bring about a sense of calmness. The same logic applies to music, and much like the rhythm of a beating heart, the rhythm of music has a calming effect on a baby too.
Garbh Sanskar believes that the sound of the Veena, a string instrument, and the flute, have sounds which can soothe the mind and the soul. In fact, these days there are a several Garbh Sanskar songs available on CDs or over the Internet.
Garbh Sanskar Tips
Here are some simple tips that can help nurture the special bond between the mother and the baby:
Caress and talk to your baby. Even the father should take turns in familiarising the baby with his voice. It might sound like an odd thing to do, but can go a long way in developing the bond between the parents and the baby
Talk to your baby about something different every day. Modulate your voice and tell them how happy you are to have him or her in your life and how you just cannot wait to hold your baby
Staying positive is very important. Avoid stresses and bad thoughts
A holiday in a scenic place might also help you relax. Consider a vacation if you are finding it hard to relax mentally. Babymoons are gaining a lot of popularity these days and for a good reason!
While these practices may seem odd initially, they are sure to grow on you and have a positive impact on your relationship with your baby.
Garbh Sansakar finds its roots in ancient practices. It focuses on the well-being of the mother and the healthy development of the child. But more than this, Garbh Sanskar focuses on fostering an everlasting bond between the mother and the child. A healthy diet, positive thoughts, regular exercise and a loving bond, are the components of Garbh Sanskar. Practice the simple tenets of Garbh Sanskaar and experience the peace they offer. Read more
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Nutrition Tips for Babies and School Going Kids
Once your baby turns six months of age, he will need nutrients from other food sources. You can start your baby off with semi-solid food, and later progress to solids. Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure your little one gets his daily nutritional intake in a safe manner.
Food and Nutrition Tips for Kids
Small Babies can't chew, so the food should be semi-solid. When you start semi-solid food, keep in mind that after introducing a new food you must monitor your baby for allergies. Check the baby's activity level, if he develops rashes or breathing issues, and also whether he is vomiting or not. If there are any such changes in the baby, stop the food and rush him to the doctor if the symptoms worsen.
Don't force the baby to complete the food. His stomach is small, so only a small amount of food is needed at a time. Even a minimum of five spoons is enough for the baby. You can slowly increase the amount of food as time passes.
Foods like well-mashed potatoes, carrots, or pumpkin can be given for babies as their first food. Fruits and vegetables can also be given in the form of puree.
Always avoid packed foods for babies and kids. You can also prepare sathu mavu at home.
Cow's milk can be given to babies after they are one-year-old. Until then, you can continue breastfeeding or feeding him formula milk.
Finger foods can be given to babies once they turn 8 months of age.
School going kids are usually hungry when they come home, so you can make a banana and chocolate pancake, which is tasty. Also, experiment with potato fry or sandwiches to see what your kid enjoys. These foods give kids energy and required nutrients.
You can feed your kid 5 almonds, 5 walnuts, 3 cashews, 3 dates, and a glass of milk, which will give him energy and strength.
Some baby won't drink milk, but calcium is more important for bones, so you can give paneer, cheese butter, and also milk sweets instead of milk.
Avoid sugar for babies and kids. You can give them jaggery instead, which is healthier.
These feeding tips will ensure that your baby is well-fed and gets enough nutrition for proper growth and development.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
15 hours ago
Q. Hlw dr its my 6th month pregnency can i intimate with my partner
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
14 hours ago
A. Hello dear! If your pregnancy is going on fine without any high risk factors then it’s okay. Still, would advise you to check with your doctor once before going further. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
11 hours ago
Q. My breasts feel full and heavy, but there’s no milk when pumping and during feeding baby —what do I do?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
5 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. But it is really very difficult to say anything without proper examination. It is advisable to get yourself evaluated by a doctor and follow doctors advise properly. You can also book online doctor’s appointment on FirstCry where the doctor can help you and guide you properly.
Thanks and take care
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
11 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
6 hours ago
A. dear mom.
better to take tab pcm for time being n do take steam inhakation couple of tines a day, follpw good home renedies for cold, taje more rest .
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
5 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
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