Garbhini Paricharya – The Comprehensive Lifestyle for Pregnant Women

Being pregnant comes with its set of unique challenges. As much as you wait eagerly to meet your little one, it is important to pay attention to the changes that your body undergoes and make minor alterations to your lifestyle too. The age-old practice ofGarbhini Paricharya, advocated by Ayurveda consists of practices that ensure the well-being of the mother and the child. This practice includes diet, lifestyle and psychological aspects that ensure the healthy development of the foetus. 

According to this regimen, there is a set of food that is recommended and behaviour that is encouraged for the healthy development of the foetus and the welfare of the mother. There are different foods prescribed for each month for a healthy pregnancy and a child.

First and second month – It is important to include milk and ghee in your diet as much as possible. This is not only for the sake of the child but also strengthens the mother’s bones. It is also recommended to include sweet, cold and liquid foods like fruit juices. An herbal oil massage can help the mother to relax during this period. 

Third and fourth month – Butter is a staple during this period. A variety of rice called Shashtika rice with curd is also recommended during this period. Meat that is not to heavy can be eaten by non-vegetarians during the third and the fourth month. 

Fifth and sixth month – Ghee extracted from butter is important during this period. Shashtika rice with milk must be consumed at this time. Other staples during this period include rice gruel prepared in milk and sweetened rice prepared in milk. These foods ensure that the mother gets her calcium and iron to strengthen her body.    

Seventh and eighth month – Ghee prepared with sweet tasting medicated herbs are recommended during this time because it helps in the proper growth and development of the foetus.Ghuratkhanda, a sweet dish made with ghee is a staple during this period. For non-vegetarians, soup from different meats can be included in their diet. 

Ninth month – Since this is the last month of pregnancy, importance is being given to ensure a smooth delivery of the child. Unctuous enema must can be prepared using a group of sweet herbs and administered to the mother. The same solution must be given to mothers in the form of vaginal tampons to lubricate the uterus and vaginal canal. Baths with cold herbal decoctions are also recommended during this period. Rice gruel must be given to the mother amongst other staple foods. 

Following theGarbhini Paricharyaregimen has several benefits including:

• Softening of vaginal canal and foetal membranes which helps a smooth and easy delivery process 
• The mother is able to easily expel feces, urine and the placenta is in the right area 
• This diet and regiment not only strengthen the mother and the child but also nourishes the mother’s breast to ensure that the breast milk is nutritious 
• Since the diet mostly consists of liquids, even mothers experiencing nausea and morning sickness will be able to follow them and ensure that they receive the right nutrients

A healthy pregnancy is crucial for the welfare of the child and can go a long way in their development. Following ancient Ayurvedic practices that have been followed for nearly centuries together is one such way to a healthy pregnancy and a child.