Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Postnatal Massage

The postnatal wrap is known as the bengkung. Traditionally, it is a long strip of cloth up to 15 metres long that is tightly wrapped around the belly from above the pelvis to just below the bust. Other variations of the bengkung include a wrap that is tied together with cloth strips on either side, and a corset with interlocking strips.

it's important to choose a good-quality bengkung that won't unravel or come loose in the course of the day. It should be worn at all times, day and night (though some mums say they could only stand to wear them for a few hours a day). 

The correct way to put it on is to start at the bottom, working your way up to cover your torso and tying it off just under the breast. 

Personally i felt that the traditional wrap can also help flatten the tummy, reduce weight and tone the body;protect the internal organs; tighten the abdomen and other parts of the body that have sagged or lost their muscle tone after childbirth; promote good posture that will aid in breastfeeding.

Been wearing it since 1 week post delivery and my tummy had shrunk significantly.  Best to wrap immediately after birth to aid recovery if one can.  Compared to my previous pregnancy,  dr mentioned that my womb is slightly prolapsed and the wrap will help provide support to the abdomen. I was amazed that dr watt a western trained doctor also believe in effects of bengkung and encouraged me to go for postnatal madsages.

Compared to the previous masseurs which I've hired,  the one that my dad's friend recommended was the best. She uses traditional oils and fragrant the beddings with geranium essential oils,  transforming the atmosphere to a relaxed mode. She uses firming masque followed by traditional herbs tapal ("ta piow") on the tummy, it gives off a warmth feeling to keep the abdomen warm. And for the head,  she will massage with peppermint oils and apply a strip of traditional herb called paeles ( "pi-leh" ) on the forehead to relieve headaches. She will leave the ginger cream and oils at my place and encourage me to use it after shower.  How generous.

All the herbs and wrap can be purchased from Joo Chiat Complex which houses a number of malay traditional stores.

Her charges are $75per 1.5 hour slot.  She has package discount as well. This masseur allows one to feed the baby whenever he cries.  She usually arrives at 3pm and leaves around 6pm as a result of intermittent feeding. However she  doesn't charge you the extra hours. 

Name: Emma
Tel: +65 94284522

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