Garbha sanskar stems from the concept that a baby's mental and behavioural development can be influenced in the mother's womb. Garbha sanskar is a Sanskrit word; Garbha means 'foetus in the womb,' and Sanskar means 'educating the mind.' As per traditional beliefs, a child's mental and behavioural development begins while they are still in their mother's womb, and it is at this time that their personality also takes shape.

Research suggests that an unborn baby can not only listen and feel in the mother's womb but even respond in its unique way. Garbha Sanskar includes a list of activities to stimulate the baby's senses gently from outside to develop its physical & intellectual abilities fully.

History of garbha sanskar

Garbha sanskar is an ancient practice and can be traced back to the Ayurvedic texts of Caraka, Susruta, and Vagbhatta. Indian mythology is filled with many stories that illustrate the power of garbha sanskar; for instance, garbha sanskar had a very positive effect on mythological characters like Abhimanyu and Prahlad, who were enlightened in their mothers' wombs.

When to start the practice of garbha sanskar?

Garbha sanskar is not only about taking care during the nine months of pregnancy but about starting preparations at least three months before conception.

Benefits of garbha sanskar

Through the practice of garbha sanskar, you can

  • promote physical and mental well-being
  • educate your child
  • develop a bond with the child before birth
  • make your child more alert, confident, content, more active at birth, and better at breastfeeding

List of garbha sanskar activities for pregnant women

Eat well

Eating well during pregnancy will help your baby to develop and grow. There isn't a special diet for pregnancy, but it's essential to eat balanced, nutrient-rich food. You are advised to avoid spicy foods and addictive substances.

Practice light exercises

Engage in light physical activities and household work. Leisure walks are also beneficial and vital.

Listen to music

During pregnancy, a woman experiences physical and mental changes. These changes can cause stress, which can affect your health and well-being. Stress can also affect your unborn baby's health.

Listening to calm and soothing music may help you feel relaxed. Your baby will also respond to how you are feeling.

Practice meditation

Meditation may help minimize stress and random thoughts. Visualize good things about the baby while you meditate.

Bond with your baby

Find a quiet time to talk and sing to your baby bump. It helps them get to know voices, making them feel safe and secure. It will also tune up their hearing. Gently rub and massage your tummy. Your baby will feel the vibrations against their skin.

Rest well

It is necessary to sleep well and to relax when you are not working.

Be positive

During pregnancy, your baby is exposed to the food you eat, the sounds you hear, the air you breathe, and the emotions you feel.

Negative thoughts and emotions are common during pregnancy. Emotions like stress can affect your baby's development. Hence you hear everyone telling you to remain happy and calm. It allows your baby to grow in a happy and positive environment.

References

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  3. Deshpande J. The effect of selected aspect of garbha sanskar on stress, coping strategies and wellbeing of antenatal mothers. Int J Sci Res. 2016;5(3).
  4. Sarkar S. Pregnancy, birthing, breastfeeding and mothering: Hindu perspectives from scriptures and practices. Open Theology. 2020 Feb 18;6(1):104–16.
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