4 Bodywork Benefits for the Postpartum Body
Bodywork for new moms can help with body alignment and to speed up recovery
Bodywork is not a luxury for new moms, but a necessity that is often overlooked. Moms’ bodies are stretched, strained and pushed to new capacities to support the needs of growing a human. After having a baby, proper rest and nutrition can help restore the body, but postpartum bodywork can be an additional support to speed up recovery and get the body back to feeling good.
Benefits of Bodywork on the Postpartum Body
Bodywork can help with proper alignment, expedite healing, provide stability to the body, and increase bonding with baby.
Alignment
After pregnancy and birth, the postpartum body needs to return to pre-pregnancy position, but it often needs extra support to help it properly align. Bodywork can help restore organs to their pre-pregnancy position, can help the body rebuild and strengthen, and can aid in the prevention of urinary tract infections, digestive issues, pain with sex, and painful menstruation. When the body is aligned properly it can function correctly.
Healing
The postpartum body needs to heal from internal, and potentially, external tears and bruising. Bodywork promotes circulation and blood flow to bring oxygen and nutrients to areas in need within the body. It also helps move lymph and remove toxins from the system to help speed up recovery and healing of the postpartum body.
Stability
Pelvic floor bodywork can help reduce lower back pain and instances of prolapse. When the pelvic muscles and bones are restored to proper alignment after birth, the pelvic floor can function correctly and give stability to the body.
Bonding
Bodywork can help moms feel good in their body which can release hormones that promote bonding. Safe and positive touch helps with the release of oxytocin in the body which is the hormone responsible for mom’s bonding with baby. It also aids in in breastmilk production, and in her overall feeling of being good.
Types of Postpartum Bodywork
There are many types of postpartum bodywork and the important thing is to find what feels best for you and your body. Some types of bodywork to consider for supporting the postpartum body are:
Acupuncture
Hormonal health
Promotion of energy flow for overall health and well-being
Chiropractic Care
Supports proper alignment of the body
Craniosacral Therapy
Nervous system regulation to promote overall well-being and health
Myofascial release to promote proper body functioning
Massage
Maya Abdominal Massage for organ alignment
Abhyanga Lymph Massage for movement of lymph to help clear toxins from body
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Supports proper alignment of the body
Tools to strengthen weakened areas to restore function
Preventative care for pelvic dysfunction such as prolapse and incontinence
Babies and Bodywork
Bodywork can also help babies after birth as well. Bodywork can help with alignment, latching for breastfeeding, can improve circulation, and can help babies feel good in their bodies. Massage, chiropractic work, and craniosacral therapy are some bodywork modalities for babies; however, it is important that you find a practitioner who is trained to work with babies, so their developing systems are supported.
Bodywork Services in the Mountain Area
The ORIGIN Family Services Directory provides a list of practitioners in the Front Range Mountain Areas including Conifer, Bailey, Evergreen, Golden, Morrison, and Pine that provide services and care to support new families with bodywork and/or postpartum care.
Importance of Bodywork for New Moms
Bodywork is a great addition to help support the healing and recovery of new moms. Bodywork helps set the body up for success and supports the body in healing and strengthening properly after having a baby. It also promotes bonding with baby, can increase a mother’s milk supply, and helps mom rest and recover. When looking at the benefits, bodywork for the postpartum body is not just a treat for new moms, but it is essential for their long-term health and well-being.
