2 Months | Advanced 

What is Garbha Sanskar

Every parent wants the best for their child. A healthy pregnancy is necessary to ensure the baby’s well- being after birth too. Garbh sanskar has gained popularity as an enabler for the mental and physical development of the baby.

The knowledge of garbh sanskar dates back to ancient scriptures and is included in the ayurveda. The word garbh in sanskrit refers to foetus in the womb, and sanskar means education of the mind. So, garbh sanskar translates into the process of educating the mind of unborn baby. It is traditionally believed that a child’s mental and behavioral development starts in the womb as it can be influenced by the mother’s emotional state while she carries the baby. The practice has been a part of hindu tradition since time immemorial and is evidenced by stories of how garbh sanskar had a very positive effect on mythological characters like abhimanyu, ashtavakra and prahlad who were enlightened in their mother’s womb.
It might sound odd but ask any mother and she is sure to tell you that bonding with the baby starts as soon one conceives. That’s why you see mothers speaking to their baby bump or even making an effort to think good thoughts or do things that soothe the baby. While most pregnant mothers do it as a feel- good factor, it does have more deep rooted benefits too.
There is now a growing baby of scientific evidence that supports the practices related to garbh sanskar and its effect on the unborn child. Modern studies have proved that a foetus can respond to external stimulus. In fact, the hormonal secretions activated by the mother’s thoughts can also impact the baby in her womb.

Thus while garbh sanskar is believed to benefits the baby, it is not focused solely on the child. These practices ensure that the mother is healthy and in a positive state of mind. Activities such as changes in diet and life style are recommended to pregnant women through the practice of garbh sanskar.

When to Start Garbh Sanskar while Pregnant

Garbh sanskar is not only about the care taken during pregnancy, but about starting preparations at least a year before conception.
Garbh sanskar covers pre- pregnancy, pregnancy as well as the breastfeeding phase, guiding parents until the child is about 2 years old.

Different Prenatal Education Practices

References to garbh sanskar can be found in ancient Hindu Puranas and the Vedas. But the practice is not limited to India alone. Different cultures around the world encourage nurturing the bond between the mother and the growing baby, which is similar to the concept of ‘education in the womb’. Mothers in western countries often listen to classical music like that of maestros like mozart to make their child ‘unbelievably smart’.
The wisdom of garbh sanskar can be accessed from the fact that several modern prenatal practices are derived from it. These include:

• Autosuggestion and hypnosis: These are meditation techniques which occupy the mind with an idea that can turn into reality.
• Colour therapy: This includes the use of light and colour to balance the mind. Certain colours can uplift the mood and have a positive effect on the mind.
• Aromatherapy: This uses the senses of smell that sharpens the senses, and soothes the body and mind. Essential oils and other aromatics may be used to help the mother de- stress.

List of Garbh Sanskar Activities For Pregnant women

According to Ayurved, Garbh Sanskar is one of the best ways to give birth to a healthy baby. It’s all about the mother maintaining a sound state of mind, not only mentally, but physically, emotionally and spiritually as well. Ayurvedic garbh sanskar suggests certain guidelines to keep in mind for the pregnant mother.

These include:

• Healthy eating habits
• Positive thinking
• Practicing yoga or some form of light exercise
• Pranayama 
• Light Yogic Kriya 
• Specific Garbh Sanskar Yogasanas 
• Meditation
• Prayer
• Listening to music which brings peace to mind
• Reading calming or spiritual books
• Keeping the mind relaxed and happy
• Consuming herbal ghee during pregnancy

Benefits of Garbh Sanskar during pregnancy

It is up to the mother to shape up the first impressions of the baby. Positive thinking and a positive attitude can go a long way in ensuring the mental and physical well- being of the mother, which is linked to well- being of the baby inside her womb as well. Garbh sanskar helps develop that eternal bond between the mother and her unborn child.
While experts encourage practicing garbh sanskar for the well being of the mother, there are also long- term benefits for the baby that might not immediately be recognized. Communication with the baby is ‘garbh sanwaad’ that contributes to the mental growth of the baby and helps to build a strong bond with the mother.
Listening to music and reading to the unborn child can later help make your baby a sound sleeper or induce better sleeping habits. Your baby might become more alert, aware and confident. The baby might also respond to stimulus better and be more active and content. The mother- baby bonding also benefits as your baby might even begin breastfeeding in better way.

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