A prenatal massage is great for easing the aches and pains, but did you know that postnatal massage can have huge benefits too? The latter can help with everything from relieving pain to reducing water retention, regulating hormones, alleviating depression and promoting weight loss by boosting blood circulation. Home massage service Aleyda Mobile Spa offers a modern approach to postpartum massage for mums. Instead of a traditional Javanese postnatal massage that might involve uterine repositioning, traditional binding (bengkung) or herbs (jamu), the Aleyda postnatal massage is driven by three goals: relieving myofascial tension caused by breastfeeding and postpartum changes, facilitating the body’s natural healing process, and elevating mood.
Expat Living reader LUDIVINE DESDOUETS gave birth two and a half months ago. Ludi recently gave the massage a try – read on for her review!
Postnatal massage review
When we first arranged the appointment, the Aleyda team told me that they needed enough space for a single bed; so I decided to use my guest room. Zam and Jean (my therapist) set up the massage table, which was super comfortable. With fresh linen placed, nice relaxing music playing in the background, and massage oils set up in a pretty way, I felt like I was in a real spa, but in my own house!
First, Jean asked me few questions pertaining to my delivery and C-section wound. This was in order to provide me with the best massage according to how I felt after giving birth. Then, the massage started (90 minutes, $180); she began with lymphatic drainage on my legs, followed by my back and shoulders, which she mentioned were very tense.
Besides the relaxation aspect, the main purpose of postnatal massage is to help close the abdominal gap. Almost every pregnancy causes diastasis recti; the term refers to the partial or complete separation of the abdominal muscle due to the enormous amount of pressure on the belly during pregnancy. I’m no exception!
Jean helped me to feel the gap for myself, which was the space of two fingers. When she proceeded to massage my tummy, I was rather scared at first; I used Jamu massage for my first pregnancy and it was painful. But Jean’s pressure was perfect from the beginning. I even enjoyed this part of the massage as I felt it work immediately on my muscles! It was actually the first time I felt them since I gave birth. I understood then how Aleyda’s postnatal massage helps to prevent musculoskeletal dysfunctions caused by diastasis recti, such as poor posture and weakened pelvic alignment.
Aftermath and follow-up
Once the massage is done, your therapist can assist you to wear a medical-grade abdominal binder ($69). This helps to boost recovery, reduce back pain and improve mobility – especially if you’ve had a C-section. Jean and I talked a lot during the second part of the massage, and she gave me lots of advice, including exercises that can help protect my spine and improve my pelvic alignment.
What I really like about this modern postnatal massage is that the pressure isn’t too strong. There’s no aggressive approach to recovering too fast; instead, it just helps you in a lot of ways, mentally and physically, to feel good in your body again.
For best results, opt for the postnatal package ($1050): a series of seven sessions spread out over the second to sixth week of the postpartum period. Just like exercise, the benefits of a massage will last for several days to a week, so the recommended pace is safe and comfortable for postnatal recovery. I totally recommend this method, particularly Jean as a therapist; the whole experience had a positive effect on my body and mind. Just close your eyes and relax, mums; we deserve this!
Arrange your next home massage
On top of postnatal massage treatments, Aleyda Mobile Spa also offers prenatal massages, as well as full-body massages and foot reflexology in the comfort of your home. Prices start at $165 for a 90-minute massage, which includes all transport and set-up fees.
Aleyda Mobile Spa
6604 7567 | aleyda.com.sg
facebook.com/aleydamobilespa
Liked this? Check out our other review on Aleyda’s home massage service!
