Post natal theory

well, for the malays, after a woman gives birth, she has got to go through some post natal rituals. these includes getting massages, using 'pilis', eating jamu, etc. my hubby and I believe that these rituals have physical and mental benefits.

the physical benefits are that the woman would be healthier, regain her energy and get back her shape. the most important benefit is the mental benefits. from the rituals, even if she is not healthier, just going through the whole process would somehow make her feel healthier and revitalised.

most importantly, she would not have a culture shock from the sudden change of attention. you know, when she is pregnant, everyone is giving her the attention and care and concern. she is looked after like a queen, then suddenly, after giving birth, nobody looks at her anymore. all eyes are on the baby. if the baby makes a little noise, all hands are ready to cradle her. imagine...for the past nine months, she is the centre of everyone's lives and suddenly, she is invisible. that can be traumatic!!

so, by going through the rituals, it shows that she is still being taken care of. as most of the ritual has to be carried out by another person, preferably a midwife, the mother feels that she is not invisible and slowly will get used to the transition of being a queen to being a provider for the little queen/king.

that is why I intend to go through the whole process after I give birth. our nenek moyang who actually thought of this is really a genius. power to tradition!!