Kerala's postnatal care tradition is often mentioned with reverence by anyone who has experienced it — but rarely explained in detail. Here's what actually happens during the classical 40-day period, and why it's structured the way it is.
Why 40 days specifically?
Ayurveda considers the postpartum period a time of significant Vata increase — the body has just undergone major physical transformation, and the joints, tissues and nervous system need structured time to re-stabilise. Forty days is considered the minimum window for this recovery to complete properly.
Daily oil massage (Abhyangam)
Warm, medicated oil — often Dhanwantharam Thailam — is massaged into the mother's body daily. This eases joint and muscle recovery, improves circulation, and directly counters the Vata increase from childbirth.
Herbal bath routines
Following the massage, a herbal bath (using boiled leaves and roots) helps close the body's pores gently and supports skin recovery.
Baby massage and care
Gentle daily massage for the newborn — using a milder oil — supports bonding, digestion and healthy development in the first weeks of life.
A specific postnatal diet
Warm, easily digestible, Vata-pacifying foods dominate the postnatal diet — supporting both the mother's recovery and healthy lactation. See our dedicated diet and nutrition plans for more on this.
Why this matters even if you're not in Kerala
You don't need to be physically in Kerala to receive this care. Our postnatal care service brings the same traditional routine to your home, and our postnatal product kits ship to families abroad who want to follow the tradition themselves.