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 garbhsanskar foods in pregnancy should have a balanced amount of calcium, folic acid and iron.

GarbhSanskar 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.

Listening to Music Which Brings Peace to the Mind

GarbhSanskar 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.

Reading Calming or Spiritual Books

GarbhSanskar recommends reading spiritual books, which bring about a feeling of contentment and satisfaction. In fact, GarbhSanskar 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!

Keeping the Mind Relaxed and Happy

As per GarbhSanskar, 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!

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.

Channel your Creativity

Being creative during pregnancy not only keeps your mind occupied, but as per GarbhSanskar, 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.

Prayer

Praying is an important part of GarbhSanskar , 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.

Positive Thinking

Pregnancy can make you moody and irritable. GarbhSanskar 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.

Practicing Yoga or Some Form of Light Exercise

GarbhSanskar 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 GarbhSanskar yoga asanas boost the mother’s chances of having a full-term normal delivery with minimal labour pain

Meditation

Meditation is an important aspect of GarbhSanskaar 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.

Visualization

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.