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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

🤰Clara’s Complete Pregnancy & TCM Treatments Online Course

👩‍🍼 Thesittingmonth.com

Instagram @thesittingmonth

Show Notes

Today, I had a truly insightful conversation with Emily Montague about postpartum recovery—often referred to as the fourth trimester. This is one of the TCM subjects I am most passionate about! Emily’s deep passion for Traditional Chinese Medicine and food nutrition shines through her work, and her personal journey as a mother of five(!) makes her guidance even more meaningful.

Emily’s Journey into Postpartum Healing

Her expertise was shaped by her time living in Hong Kong and her fluency in Mandarin and Cantonese, which introduced her to traditional Chinese postpartum recovery practices. One of the most influential concepts she adopted was “the sitting month”—a period of intentional rest and nourishment designed to restore balance after childbirth.

Her first postpartum experience was difficult, as she pushed her body too quickly and developed health issues, including appendicitis. With guidance from friends in Toronto’s Hong Kong community, she discovered the sitting month, and her later recoveries became far more restorative and supportive.

Key Elements of Postpartum Recovery

1. Rest is Essential
Postpartum recovery is not just about the baby—it’s about allowing the body to heal. Emily emphasized the importance of lying down and resting as much as possible to support organ recovery and realignment. Rest also plays a critical role in emotional well-being.

2. Nourishment through Traditional Foods
Food is medicine in TCM, and postpartum recovery relies heavily on nutrient-rich meals. Emily shared favourites like:

• Black fungus steamed chicken – supports circulation and tissue repair

• Sweet black vinegar ginger stew – replenishes collagen, warms the body, and improves blood flow

3. Building a Support Network
Whether it’s family, friends, or trusted neighbours, a supportive community is essential. Having help allows mothers to truly rest, recover, and bond with their newborns.

4. Hormonal and Mental Health Care
Acupuncture, TCM nutrition, and mindfulness practices can help regulate hormones and support mental health. Emily also stressed the importance of self-compassion—allowing time and space to adapt to the emotional shifts that follow childbirth.

Creating a Healing Environment

A central theme Emily returned to was the importance of creating a warm and nurturing environment—both physically and emotionally. Keeping the body warm, eating cooked foods, and surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people all encourage recovery.

As Emily spoke, her glowing complexion and vibrant energy were a testament to the benefits of these practices.

Final Reflections

Having Emily on the show reminded me of the importance of blending tradition, personal experience, and community support when it comes to postpartum recovery. Her program, The Sitting Month, is a beautiful resource for mothers looking to embrace these healing practices.

Postpartum healing is not just a personal journey—it’s a community effort. By sharing knowledge and offering support, we can help more mothers thrive during the fourth trimester.\

Disclaimer

The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy are a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor a Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. As well as, users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition, with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.

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