Postpartum Benkung Belly Binding
Congratulations! You've just embarked on one of life's most miraculous journeys - motherhood. As you revel in the joy of your new bundle of joy, you may also be experiencing the physical aftermath of pregnancy and childbirth. One age-old practice that can help support your postpartum recovery is Benkung Belly Binding. In this guide, we'll explore what it is, its benefits, and how you can incorporate it into your postpartum care routine.
What is Benkung Belly Binding?
Benkung Belly Binding is a traditional postpartum practice in Malaysia. It involves wrapping the abdomen and hips with a long strip of cloth to provide support and compression to the postpartum body. The term "Benkung" refers to the technique of wrapping, while "Belly Binding" signifies its focus on the abdominal area.
The process typically involves the use of a special cloth, often made from natural fibers like cotton or muslin. The cloth is wrapped snugly around the abdomen, starting from the hips and working its way up to just below the ribcage. This wrapping technique is designed to gently guide the muscles and organs back into place, supporting the body's natural healing process.
Benefits of Benkung Belly Binding
Abdominal Support: Pregnancy can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch and weaken as the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby. Benkung Belly Binding provides gentle compression, offering support to the abdominal muscles and helping them regain strength and tone.
Pelvic Alignment: During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic bones can shift and become misaligned. Belly binding helps to realign the pelvis, promoting better posture and alleviating discomfort in the lower back and hips.
Uterine Involution: After childbirth, the uterus undergoes a process called involution, where it gradually returns to its pre-pregnancy size. Belly binding can aid in this process by providing external support, encouraging the uterus to contract more efficiently.
Core Stability: Strengthening the core muscles is essential for postpartum recovery, especially for women who have undergone cesarean sections or experienced diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles). Benkung Belly Binding offers gentle compression, which can help improve core stability and promote healing.
Emotional Support: The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging for many women as they adjust to their new role as mothers. Belly binding provides a sense of comfort and security, promoting feelings of stability and well-being during this vulnerable time.
How to use the Benkung Belly Wrap?
Consult with a Professional: Before starting any postpartum regimen, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it's safe for you, especially if you've had any complications during pregnancy or childbirth. Additionally, consider seeking guidance from a certified postpartum doula or a practitioner experienced in Benkung Belly Binding.
Choose the Right Cloth: Select a soft, breathable fabric for your belly binding cloth, such as muslin or cotton. Avoid materials that are too restrictive or uncomfortable against the skin.
Wrap with Care: When wrapping the abdomen, start from the hips and work your way up, overlapping the cloth slightly with each layer to ensure a snug but not constrictive fit. Pay attention to your comfort level, making adjustments as needed. You can watch the video below for detailed instructions.
Be Consistent: For optimal results, incorporate belly binding into your postpartum routine consistently. Aim to wear the wrap for several hours each day, gradually increasing the duration as your body adjusts.
Pair with Other Postpartum Practices: While belly binding can be beneficial on its own, consider complementing it with other postpartum practices. My favourite combination is to do a postpartum belly massage and then wrap the belly with a benkung wrap.
A holistic approach with ample rest, a nutritious postpartum diet, gentle exercise and support will enhance your overall recovery and well-being.
Closing Thoughts
Postpartum Benkung Belly Binding is a time-honored tradition that offers numerous benefits for new moms as they navigate the journey of motherhood. By providing support, promoting healing, and fostering emotional well-being, belly binding can be a valuable tool in your postpartum recovery toolkit.
Belly Binding is one of the many ways in which I support a new mum. It is part of my in-home postpartum support and postpartum bodywork package. If you are pregnant or a new mum and want to support your birth recovery and well-being in the postpartum period, then reach out. I’d love to have a chat.
