Sanhujori

Sanhujori (산후조리) is a traditional Korean postpartum care practice and period. It encompasses a range of dietary restrictions, specific behaviors, and environmental considerations aimed at promoting the new mother's physical and mental recovery after childbirth. The term literally translates to "postpartum care."

Sanhujori typically lasts for three weeks, although some women may extend the period to several months. Key aspects include:

• Diet: Warm, easily digestible foods are emphasized, with a focus on nutrient-rich ingredients believed to promote healing and milk production. Common foods include seaweed soup (miyeok guk), bone broth, and rice. Cold foods and spicy or salty dishes are generally avoided.

• Rest and Warmth: New mothers are encouraged to rest extensively and avoid strenuous activities. Maintaining warmth is considered crucial, and avoiding exposure to cold drafts is strictly adhered to. The belief is that postpartum women are vulnerable to ailments if exposed to cold.

• Hygiene and Grooming: While rest is emphasized, gentle hygiene practices are also followed. Traditional beliefs sometimes limited showering or washing hair during the initial period, but modern practices often involve modified approaches that prioritize cleanliness while avoiding overexertion or chilling.

• Emotional Well-being: Support from family, particularly the new mother's own mother or other female relatives, plays a vital role. Creating a calm and supportive environment is considered essential for emotional recovery and preventing postpartum depression.

Sanhujori practices have evolved over time, adapting to modern lifestyles and medical knowledge. While some traditional beliefs are still observed, many aspects have been modified or reinterpreted to align with contemporary understanding of postpartum health. The practice reflects a deep-rooted cultural emphasis on the importance of maternal well-being after childbirth.