The First Forty Days - by Heng Ou & Amely Greeven & Marisa Belger (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Based on author Heng Ou'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, The First Forty Days revives the lost art of caring for the mother after birth.

"A great read, especially during the second half of pregnancy. . . . Includes pantry and shopping lists to prepare beforehand, as well as step-by-step instructions for making everything from bone broth to body salves. It discusses how to approach relationships, setting guidelines for visitors, and asking for help and support from family and friends." --Mother magazine

The first 40 days after the birth of a child offer an essential and fleeting period of rest and recovery for the new mother. 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, The First Forty Days provides a lifeline--a source of connection, nourishment, and guidance.

The book includes 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. In addition to the recipes, 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.

Cowritten by New York Times bestselling author Amely Greeven and Marisa Belger, The First Forty Days, fully illustrated to feel both inspiring and soothing, is a practical guide and inspirational read for all new mothers and mothers-to-be--the perfect ally during the first weeks with a new baby.

Beautifully designed and filled with mouth-watering food photography, this book is perfect for sharing and gifting, whether at a baby shower or when helping a new mom.

Review Quotes

Women are beginning to see the range of choices they have during pregnancy and birth, but the journey isn't over when the baby arrives. Bringing our attention back to the importance of the postpartum period for new mothers helps to create space for this essential period of integration and recovery. The First 40 Days is an invaluable companion during the first 40 days and beyond.--Ricki Lake & Abby Epstein, Filmmakers, The Business of Being Born

About the Author

Heng Ou is the founder of MotherBees, a food and lifestyle company supporting women through every stage of motherhood.

Amely Greeven is the coauthor of the New York Times bestseller Clean.

Marisa Belger is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in numerous magazines and Websites, including Natural Health, Prevention, Travel + Leisure, and New York.