Garbha Sanskar is an Ayurvedic practise that focuses on foetal development during pregnancy. Garbha Sanskar is derived from two Sanskrit words, ‘Garbha‘ which means ‘womb’ or ‘pregnancy’ and ‘Sanskar‘ which means ‘sacrament’ or ‘ritual’. Garbha Sanskar is an ancient Ayurvedic practise mentioned in texts such as the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Brihat Samhita.
The physical and mental state of the mother during pregnancy, according to Ayurvedic philosophy, has a significant impact on the development and well-being of the foetus. As a result, Garbha Sanskar emphasises the significance of preparing the mother’s body and mind for pregnancy through a variety of rituals, practises, and dietary changes.
Garbha Sanskar incorporates the following key practises and rituals:
- Preconception planning: Garbha Sanskar begins with preconception planning, which entails preparing both partners. Garbha sanskaar practise begins even before conception, with the selection of the best time and place for conception. Before conceiving, Ayurveda recommends that the couple be in a positive frame of mind and live a healthy lifestyle. To create a healthy environment for the growing foetus, the woman should eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and live a stress-free life. Following a healthy diet, practising yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques, and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful substances are all part of this.
- Panchakarma is an Ayurvedic detoxification procedure that is recommended prior to conception to cleanse the body and balance the doshas. It consists of five procedures: Vamana (emesis), Virechana (purgation), Basti (enema), Nasya (nasal medication), and Raktamokshana (bloodletting).
- Dietary changes: A healthy and balanced diet is essential for the fetus’s proper growth and development. It is recommended that the mother consume a diet high in nutrients such as protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Specific foods and herbs believed to promote foetal growth and development, such as ghee, almonds, saffron, and shatavari, are also included in the diet.
- Yoga and meditation are essential components of Garbha Sanskar because they help to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve overall health and well-being. Pregnant women should practise specific yoga asanas and meditation techniques such as pranayama, meditation, and prenatal yoga.
- Mantras and Chanting: It is believed that chanting mantras and shlokas has a positive effect on the foetus. To promote the health and well-being of the foetus and to protect it from negative influences, mantras such as the Gayatri mantra, the Santana Gopala mantra, and the Garbha Raksha mantra are chanted.
- Ayurvedic massages are recommended for pregnant women to improve blood circulation, reduce stress, and promote overall health and well-being. Certain massages are recommended for Pregnant women, such as Abhyanga and Shirodhara.
- Ayurveda also suggests performing certain rituals during pregnancy, such as havan or yagna (sacred fire ceremonies), to purify the environment and create positive energy. The mother is also advised to wear specific colours and gemstones that are thought to benefit the foetus.
Garbha Sanskar is a comprehensive approach to pregnancy that aims to promote the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of both the mother and the fetus. Although many of the practices and rituals mentioned in Garbha Sanskar are rooted in tradition, they have been shown to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of both the mother and the fetus.
However, it is essential to consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner before beginning any new practices or making significant dietary changes during pregnancy.