The First Forty DaysThe First Forty Days

The first 40 days after the birth of a child offer an essential and fleeting period of rest and recovery for the new mother. Based on the author's own postpartum experience with zuo yuezi, a set period of "confinement," in which a woman remains at home focusing on healing and bonding with her baby, this book revives the lost art of caring for the mother after birth. As modern mothers are pushed to prematurely "bounce back" after delivering their babies, and are often left alone to face the physical and emotional challenges of this new stage of their lives, this book offers a source of connection, nourishment, and guidance, with 60 simple recipes for healing soups; replenishing meals and snacks; and calming and lactation-boosting teas, all formulated to support the unique needs of the new mother. This warm and encouraging guide offers advice on arranging a system of help during the postpartum period, navigating relationship challenges, and honoring the significance of pregnancy and birth. Heng Ou is the founder of MotherBees, a food and lifestyle company supporting women through every stage of motherhood.