POSTnatal MASSAGE
Call 06-40143722 for a last-minute appointment at home in Utrecht city
Supports the transition to motherhood
Postnatal massage supports the transition to motherhood and can contribute significantly to the recovery of the new mum. Childbirth is undoubtedly one of the most powerful experiences a woman can go through. But it can also leave your body tired and sore and could use some gentle care. That’s where postpartum massage comes in.
On this page, I explore the therapeutic effects of integral postpartum massage based on Ayurvedic massage with moxibustion and foot reflexology. I also describe the benefits and when you can start using this postpartum treatment in your recovery process after childbirth. From relieving ailments to promoting energy & balance as well as aiding the healing process, massage after childbirth offers many benefits for new mothers who have just given birth.
What is postnatal massage?
Postpartum massage or maternity massage at Natural Waves is a massage specifically designed for new mothers. I use my toolbox with therapeutic methods to reduce any blockages, swelling and sensations resulting from childbirth and to help you balance. This type of treatment is also beneficial for relieving parts of the body most affected by the birthing process, such as the lower back and pelvic area. Because the methodology is focused on your overall holistic well-being, therapeutic postpartum massage can offer a safe and pleasant way to find balance and energy after childbirth.
“Had very nice post-partum massage at home. Marise has a pleasant presence that is relaxing in itself. Also nice that she can do a diastasis check.”
– Lara
Of what methodologies does postpartum massage consist?
Natural Waves’ postpartum massage consists of various methodologies. The basis is therapeutic Ayurvedic massage, supplemented bt elements of foot reflexology and moxibustion. This allows me to both balance the so called Ayurvedic Vata dosha and to specifically relieve postpartum complaints via acupressure points and foot reflex zones. At a second appointment, you will also receive customised advice on nutrition & herbal remedies. The more often you come, the deeper the effect of the applied techniques. Indeed, in Eastern countries such as India, mothers are traditionally massaged every day of the first 40 days after childbirth.
What are the benefits of postnatal massage?
- Speeds up the recovery of your body after childbirth
- Relieves discomfort of the lower back and pelvic floor
- Supports pelvic floor complaints
- Balances the hormonal balance
- Stimulates lactation (breastfeeding)
- Softens scar after caesarean section (through scar massage and heat moxa treatment)
- Relieves maternity tears & baby blues – also after miscarriage (in consultation with healthcare provider)
How long does a post-partum massage session last?
- Standard post-birth massage at home or at the practice 105 minutes, any (follow-up) consultations 90 minutes.
- An additional option is a follow-up massage for the partner, as they too can use extra support in the maternity period.
Prices and voucher
Here you will find the tariffs for postnatal massage at home and at the practice. You can also order a voucher for a friend who has just given birth here. In many cases, there are possibilities for partial reimbursement from the supplementary health insurance.
Gift Voucher Postnatal Massage At HomeGift Voucher Mother Warming At HomeWhen to start doing postnatal massage?
It is important to wait with postnatal massage until your doctor or midwife considers it safe. Generally, it is recommended to wait until after the first six days after giving birth before starting postnatal massage. This is because the body needs time to recover from childbirth and the hormonal changes associated with having a baby. After six days, the body is usually sufficiently recuperated to receive postnatal massage. Mother warmings with moxa can be given earlier in the maternity week, usually at day five after having given birth.
The first week after your baby’s birth is the official maternity period in the Netherlands. Often a maternity nurse will be there to look after you in that initial period with a baby. The following week up to a year after the birth, you are welcome for an initial consultation. If you’ve had a caesarean section after at least eight weeks. During that first appointment, we discuss your needs.
What is the meaning of the first 40 days after childbirth in other cultures?
In many cultures, the post-partum period is known as a rest period of 40 days or 6 weeks during which mother and child take time to rest and bond. In India, the maternity woman receives an abhyangha oil massage every day of the 40 days after childbirth for a prosperous recovery. And did you know that in China, the brand-new mother receives moxa treatments in the maternity period for warmth and calm?
The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rocks the world.
William Ross Wallace
What can Ayurveda do for the brand-new mother in the postnatal period?
Ayurveda is a rich treasure of knowledge about the natural functioning of our body and mind during conception, pregnancy and recovery in the postpartum period. This is why I apply the principles of Ayurveda to the treatment plans of the woman who recently gave birth. That means each session is tailor-made in your personal balance is the starting point for treatment.
How can moxa be applied during and after the maternity period?
The principle of “warming the mother” or “warming the mother” is very simple: Moxa, dried mugwort herb, is burned above the skin and warms specific acupuncture points. This allows me to relieve postpartum symptoms at a deep level. I work with smokeless moxa sticks, the tiger warmer and a direct Japanese moxa technique on the skin. This supports the healing process and feels wonderful for the mother receiving it.
How often and why motherwarming with moxa?
Motherwarmings are usually done at least once in the maternity week are often continued throughout the period of “zuo yue zi,” or “Sitting the Month”. They can easily be given at home in combination with a balancing reflexology treatment of the feet. Targeting the abdomen, lower lower back and pelvic area, it is used to help warm the channels and release blockages from pregnancy and childbirth. The benefits of moxibustion in the postpartum period are that it:
- improves circulation
- relieves pain
- stops bleeding
- stimulates energy and
- is used to warm specific parts of the body.
✓ Qualified complementary therapist with Basic Medical Knowledge
✓ 8+ years of experience
✓ Customised approach tailored to you as a person
✓ Integral approach with toolbox full of nature-oriented methodologies
✓ Partial reimbursement from supplementary insurance often possible