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The Art of Belly Binding: Nurturing Your Postpartum Recovery with a Bengkung Wrap The postpartum period is a time of deep transformation — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. After pregnancy and birth, your body begins the beautiful process of healing and rebalancing. One traditional practice that has supported this transition for centuries is belly binding , particularly through the use of a Bengkung wrap . It's one of the tools I keep in my doula bag for mums who are 1-3 months postpartum.  What is a Bengkung Wrap? Originating from Malaysia, the Bengkung belly bind  is a long piece of soft, breathable fabric — usually cotton — that is wrapped snugly around the abdomen from the hips up to the ribcage. Unlike modern elastic or Velcro binders, the Bengkung wrap offers a customisable firmness, gentle, and supportive way to nurture the body after childbirth. Each layer of the wrap is carefully tied, creating a firm yet comfortable embrace around your core. This ancient practice goes far beyond aesthetics — it’s a mindful ritual of care, helping new mothers feel grounded and supported in their recovery. The Benefits of Belly Binding Belly binding isn’t just about physical recovery; it’s also about honouring the postpartum journey. Some of the key benefits include: 🌿 Support for core and pelvic recovery After birth, your abdominal muscles, ligaments, and organs need time and support to realign. The gentle compression of the Bengkung wrap helps your core regain stability, reduces abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), and offers support to your lower back and pelvis. 💧 Encourages circulation and healing The even pressure of the wrap can help promote better circulation, which may assist in reducing swelling and aiding tissue repair. 🕊️ Improves posture and comfort In those early days of feeding and caring for your baby, it’s easy to slouch or strain your back especially if you're breastfeeding. A Bengkung wrap provides subtle posture support, making daily activities more comfortable. 💗 A grounding self-care ritual Wrapping yourself each day can become a meditative practice — a moment to connect with your body and honour its strength. Many women describe it as feeling “held” and comforted, both physically and emotionally. How to Use a Bengkung Wrap Traditionally, belly binding begins a few days after a vaginal birth (once bleeding has reduced) or around two weeks after a cesarean (with your practitioner’s approval). The wrap is applied by gently binding from the hips upward, layer by layer, ensuring it’s snug but never restrictive. It can be worn for several hours a day, or even just 30 minutes, depending on your comfort and needs. If you’re new to the practice, working with a postpartum doula familiar with Bengkung wrapping can help ensure you’re supported safely and effectively. A Loving Return to Your Center The postpartum body deserves the same care, reverence, and attention given during pregnancy. Belly binding with a Bengkung wrap is not just a physical aid — it’s a way to honour your body’s incredible journey, to reconnect with your core, and to nurture your recovery in a gentle, natural way. When practiced mindfully, it becomes more than a tradition — it’s a reminder that healing takes time, and that motherhood, in all its forms, deserves to be held with tenderness. To read more about postpartum doula care click here .

Bringing a new baby into the world is beautiful, but let’s be honest — it can also feel like a tidal wave. The fourth trimester, that sacred and intense period after birth, often gets overlooked in our culture of “bouncing back.” But what if you feel anything  but  okay? What if you’re wondering whether how you feel is normal — or a sign you might need more support? Let’s talk about three signs you might benefit from postpartum support — and what that support can look like from a naturopathic and doula  lens. 1. You're Running on Empty - and Can’t Recharge Yes, postpartum tiredness is expected. But if you’re feeling completely depleted,  foggy, flat, or like you can’t get through the day even with sleep, it may be more than just broken nights. Your body has just gone through an enormous transformation: blood loss, hormonal shifts, breastfeeding, and sleep deprivation. If you weren’t well-supported nutritionally or emotionally, you might be dealing with postnatal depletion , low iron or B12, or a sluggish thyroid, all of which are common and treatable. How support can help: Postpartum naturopathic care to assess nutrient status and energy levels. Gentle herbal support with adaptogens (like ashwagandha) or nervines (like oat straw). Home visits where a doula prepares nourishing, warming meals and helps you rest. A listening ear, sometimes emotional exhaustion needs care just as much as physical fatigue. 2. You Feel Isolated, Lonely or Unseen One of the most common things I hear from new mums is, “I didn’t expect to feel this lonely.” The truth is, even with a baby in your arms, postpartum can feel incredibly disconnected . Friends may not understand. Your partner might be back at work. And the emotional rollercoaster of hormones and sleep loss can be hard to explain. Emotional isolation isn’t just hard, it impacts your body too.  Stress can disrupt your nervous system, reduce immunity, and worsen symptoms like anxiety or low mood. How support can help: Postpartum doula visits create regular emotional check-ins and grounded, non-judgmental support. Herbal support for mood and stress (think lemon balm, passionflower, magnesium, B vitamins). (please check with me or your healthcare team before taking new supplements) Flower essences or homeopathics for emotional balance. (resuce remedy!) Connection: joining a mums' group, attending a postpartum circle, or just one consistent, supportive visitor each week. Remember — you’re not meant to do this alone. 3. You’re Overwhelmed and Doubting Yourself Constantly Does this sound familiar? “Is this normal?” “Should I call the doctor?” “Am I doing this wrong?” When you’re navigating life with a newborn, every cry, rash, or unsettled night can send you into decision fatigue. You want to do everything right , but you’re overwhelmed by the noise, the books, the blogs, the unsolicited advice. This mental load is real. And it’s heavy. How support can help: A doula offers evidence-based guidance and emotional reassurance without pressure or judgment. Naturopathic care supports your nervous system and cognitive function, especially if you’re experiencing brain fog, anxiety, or constant second-guessing. Herbal supports like chamomile, lemon balm, or lavender can calm the nervous system gently. A clear routine and trusted resource (instead of 1,000 conflicting online opinions) can ease that constant mental churn. Sometimes you don’t need more information, you need support to trust yourself again . So What Does Postpartum Support Actually Look Like? Every mum’s needs are different, but here are a few examples of what holistic postpartum support might involve: 💛 In-home doula visits : Emotional support, baby care help, meal prep, debriefing your birth. I have both casual and package sessions available right now. 🌿 Naturopathic consultations : Support for fatigue, hormones, breastfeeding, and recovery. Book one here 🍲 Nourishing food prep : Bone broths, herbal teas, warming meals tailored for healing. 💆🏽♀️ Bodywork : Postnatal massage, womb steaming, or acupuncture. 🧘🏽♀️ Nervous system rituals : Breathwork, gentle yoga, guided rest, or even just quiet. Sometimes, the biggest shift is having someone care for you  — so you can better care for your baby. If you’re feeling tired, overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure — that doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It means you’re human, and this is hard. Support isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity  for long-term health and wellbeing. If you feel like you could use some extra care, whether naturopathic or doula-based, I’d love to support you. You can learn more or book a session here , or connect with me on Instagram at @ postpartum_naturopath   You deserve to be held, too.

We all know how uncomfortable digestive issues can be. Whether it's bloating, irregular bowel movements, food sensitivities, or constant fatigue, gut imbalances can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing. At Rosemary Naturopathy, we believe in addressing the root causes of these issues, and that's where our Gut Self-Help Program comes in. If you’re looking for lasting solutions to digestive discomfort, skin flare-ups, fatigue, or low immunity, our GSHP is designed to guide you towards a healthier gut and a more vibrant you. Here’s how our program can make a difference. Why Gut Health Matters Your gut is often referred to as your "second brain" for a reason—it plays a central role in everything from digestion and nutrient absorption to your immune system and even mental health. When the gut is out of balance, it can trigger a cascade of issues, from skin conditions like acne and eczema to fatigue, anxiety, and more. The good news is that when your gut (and microbiome) is nourished and balanced, it can improve not only your digestive health but also your skin, energy levels, mood, and overall vitality. This is exactly why we developed the Gut Self-Help Program —to help you take control of your gut health and begin the healing process from the inside out. What’s Included in the Gut Self-Help Program? Our GSHP  isn’t just a quick-fix approach—it’s a sustainable, long-term plan that empowers you with the tools and knowledge to support your gut health. Here’s what you can expect: Personalized Nutrition Plan - We know that every individual is unique, which is why when you book 1:1 support our program includes a nutrition plan tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with food sensitivities, digestive disorders, or just want to improve your gut function, we provide guidance on which foods to include—and avoid—to support optimal gut health. There's load of support for gut focused foods if you choose to run the program solo too. Herbal and Supplement Support - Nature provides some of the best tools for healing, and we incorporate carefully selected herbs, nutraceuticals and supplements to help restore balance to your digestive system. These natural remedies can aid in reducing inflammation, supporting digestion, and improving your gut’s ability to absorb essential nutrients. Practical Tools and Lifestyle Guidance - Alongside nutrition and herbal support, we provide practical strategies to help you incorporate gut-friendly habits into your everyday life. From mindful eating practices to stress management techniques, you’ll learn how to create an environment that supports gut health—not just for a few weeks, but for the long term. Ongoing Support and Guidance - Healing takes time, and we’re here for you every step of the way. Our naturopath provides regular check-ins to monitor your progress, adjust your plan if needed, and answer any questions that come up. We’re committed to helping you achieve lasting results. Who Can Benefit from the Gut Self-Help Program? This program is perfect for anyone experiencing gut-related issues such as: Digestive discomfort : Bloating, gas, indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea Skin conditions : Acne, eczema, rosacea, or other skin flare-ups linked to gut imbalances Low energy and fatigue : When your gut isn’t functioning optimally, it can leave you feeling drained Immune system issues : Chronic colds, allergies, or frequent infections can often be linked to gut health Mood imbalances : The gut-brain connection means that digestive imbalances can affect your mental and emotional wellbeing Whether you're dealing with one of these issues or just want to enhance your overall health, the GSHP  is designed to help you take back control of your gut health and improve your quality of life. Start Your Journey to a Healthier Gut Today Healing your gut is a transformative process that can improve not only your digestion but your overall health and vitality. If you’re ready to take the next step and start feeling better, the Gut Self-Help Program is here to support you every step of the way. At Rosemary Naturopathy, we are committed to providing you with the tools, support, and knowledge to heal from within. Our team of naturopaths is here to guide you through every phase of the program and ensure that you see the results you deserve. Don’t wait to feel better. Begin your journey to a healthier gut and a healthier you today with the Gut Self-Help Program. Book your free consultation  or learn more about the program  today and start taking steps toward optimal gut health - Mickayla

As a Holistic Clinical Naturopath with over 8 years of experience in the health industry, Mickayla believes that health is built from the basics, using food as medicine first and foremost. Brining this directly to you postpartum gives you that foundation and space to really heal and come into your motherhood journey. Postpartum Doula Supporting You Through Your Postpartum Journey with Care & Compassion ❤️🔥 Becoming a new mother is one of the most profound and transformative experiences in life. But it can also be challenging. That’s where I come in. I offer mum's local to Ipswich and south-west Brisbane support that’s as nurturing as it is practical—helping you not just survive, but truly thrive in your postpartum journey. Please note doula work is unavailable from July 2026 as I'm on maternity leave (pending those who don't mind an additional baby tag-a-long). As your naturopathic postpartum doula, my role is to support you with nourishing meals, physical care, and a deep understanding of the postpartum process. I combine my expertise as a naturopathic healer, specific postpartum education, and my personal experience as a mother to create a unique, holistic support system designed just for you and your baby. What is a Postpartum Doula? The postpartum period is the time after childbirth, often referred to as The Fourth Trimester. This phase is essential for healing, bonding, and laying the foundation for your new life as a mother. As a postpartum doula, I provide support during this crucial time, offering guidance, nurturing care, and practical help. While many doulas focus on birth support, I specialise in postpartum care—ensuring you feel fully supported after your baby arrives. My approach focuses on making sure your body gets the rest, nutrition, and care it needs to recover, while also providing personalised guidance on breastfeeding, emotional well-being, and baby care. What Does Postpartum Care Look Like? In the first few months after birth, rest and recovery are critical. I’m here to help you create the space you need to heal, bond with your baby, and care for yourself. As a naturopathic postpartum doula, I offer tailored nutritional and herbal advice, light cleaning, meal prep, and emotional support to ease the many transitions of new motherhood. But my support doesn’t end after the first few months. Beyond the Fourth Trimester, I’m here to help you manage common challenges like sleep struggles, anxiety, or the mental load of motherhood—so you can find balance and regain your sense of self. For those that want to hear formal accreditation: I hold my blue card, first aid + CPR (as per my association requirements always), babywearing certification from the Australian Babywearing Association & the CBWS, and am currently studying Cert IV in Breastfeeding Education through the Australian Breastfeeding Association. Of course, also a Bachelor of Health Science Naturopathy, registered with ANTA. "Postpartum with Bub" Package Options My Postpartum with Bub package is designed to provide comprehensive support for you and your baby during this special time. Here’s what you can expect: 1x Antenatal Session (in-person or online) – We’ll connect to discuss your vision for postpartum and plan for your ideal recovery experience. (1-2 hours) Postpartum Care Sessions 6x 3 hour visits in the first 8 weeks (full package) 3x 3 hour visits in the first 8 weeks (MINI package) Invest ment in Your Postpartum Care: All of the support and personalised care listed below is included in my Postpartum with Bub package, for a fee of $1,865. Postpartum with Bub MINI package is $930. This includes my time, educational content, the food cost and cost of herbal inclusions. Book a free call to discuss and enquire about availability. *If you prefer not to have food included, the full package is $1,235. Each Visit Includes: Flexible, personalised support tailored to your needs Naturopathic advice on postpartum recovery, nutrition, and wellness Home visits (3 hours) to provide in-person care and support Herbal & nutritional support—from herbal sitz baths to baby balms and custom nutrition plans Postpartum recovery tea Vaginal rinse herbs / bath herbal tea Nipple or scar balm Herbs for mums mental health (if needed and unique to you) Support for older siblings to ease their transition into their new role Home-cooked meals and snacks—we’ll pick the menu together to nourish you and your baby Light cleaning and household help so you can focus on bonding and recovery Ongoing text/voice message support for any questions or concerns Support during outings or to appointments, cafe's or other Babywearing education to help you feel confident in handling your baby Full postpartum workbook with recipes, sleep guides, feeding guidance, and more—everything you need to feel empowered in the early days of first time motherhood Each visit also includes warm, home-cooked meals and snacks that are specifically designed to nourish you and promote healing—because your well-being matters. Casual Sessions I offer casual sessions as well for those unable or don't need the package. This is currently $210 for a 3 hour session or if you'd like longer sessions - $65/hr. You can book a casual session here . (Includes snacks but not prepped meals). Let me help you feel supported, nourished, and empowered as you navigate this beautiful (and sometimes overwhelming) new chapter. You don’t have to do it alone—I’m here for you every step of the way. Please email mickayla@sagepostpartum.com.au for more information or to arrange a more specific package that suits you. Click to book your free enquiry call to get started Please note doula work is unavailable from July 2026 as I'm on maternity leave. Follow us on Instagram @postpartum_naturopath Load more

Recommended Books This is a selection of health related and approachable books that I enjoyed reading. We hope they can offer you the same value. 1 Glucose Revolution - Jessie Inchauspé "Improve all areas of your health from your weight, sleep and cravings to your mood, energy and skin – and even slow down ageing – with easy-to-implement, science-based hacks to manage your blood sugar levels while still eating the foods you love." I loved this super approachable angle to managing blood sugar responses, even if you're not diabetic! She explains this so easily so you'll be able to keep it forfront of mind. 2 How Not To Die - Dr. Michael Greger It’s not How to Not Die, but How Not to Die—as in prematurely, in pain, and after a long, chronic, disabling illness. We have tremendous power over our health destiny and longevity. The vast majority of premature death and disability can be prevented through simple changes in diet and lifestyle. In this book he examines the top 15 causes of death in America—heart disease, various cancers, diabetes, Parkinson’s, high blood pressure, and more—and explains how nutritional and lifestyle interventions can sometimes trump prescribed pills, other pharmaceutical approaches, and even surgery, freeing us to live healthier lives. (Note: It's a bit vego oriented but has loads of good info of what fruits and vegetables can achieve for us). 3 How The Pill Changes Everything - Sarah Hill This groundbreaking book sheds light on how hormonal birth control affects women--and the world around them--in ways we are just now beginning to understand. By allowing women to control their fertility, the birth control pill has revolutionized women's lives. Women are going to college, graduating, and entering the workforce in greater numbers than ever before, and there's good reason to believe that the birth control pill has a lot to do with this. But there's a lot more to the pill than meets the eye. Such a good read to understand more about your body! 4 Baby Brain - Dr Sarah McKay Sarah runs through the positive effects of baby brain last well beyond the baby stage - even into old age, with elderly mothers' brains showing resilience to ageing. Plus, the benefits of baby brain show up for non-birth parents - even fatherhood has a profound effect on the hormones and brains of men. With personal experiences from parents concerning baby brain, nesting, maternal instinct, social support, anxiety and sleep. I haven't even finished reading this book and I love it! 5/5 insightful! 5 The Postnatal Depletion Cure - Dr Oscar Serrallach Most mothers have experienced exhaustion, pain, forgetfulness, indecision, low energy levels, moodiness, or some form of baby brain. And it's no wonder: the process of growing a baby depletes a mother's body in substantial ways - on average, a mother's brain shrinks 5% during pregnancy, and the placenta saps her of essential nutrients that she needs to be healthy and contented. But with postnatal care ending after six weeks, most women never learn how to rebuild their strength and care for their bodies after childbirth. As a result, they can suffer from the effects of depletion for many years, without knowing what's wrong or getting the support and treatments that they need. "A complete guide to rebuilding your health and reclaiming your energy, for mothers of newborns, toddlers and young children " 6 GUT - Jill Enders For too long, the gut has been the body’s most ignored and least appreciated organ, but it turns out that it’s responsible for more than just dirty work: our gut is at the core of who we are. Gut, an international bestseller, gives the alimentary canal its long-overdue moment in the spotlight. Why does acid reflux happen? What’s really up with gluten and lactose intolerance? How does the gut affect obesity and mood? Communication between the gut and the brain is one of the fastest-growing areas of medical research—on par with stem-cell research. Our gut reactions, we learn, are intimately connected with our physical and mental well-being. (LOVED)

Located mostly in Ipswich, Mickayla's goal is to educate and empower patients through diet and lifestyle shifts, using evidence-based herbal medicine and nutrition - with a little bit of love. We also offer natural healthcare products and remedies in our online store! Hi, I'm Mickayla As a Naturopath, Postpartum doula, and certified babywearing educator (+ a mumma to a busy toddler), I have a firm focus on motherhood and the postpartum phase since my own matrescence journey. My work encompasses a passion for helping new mummas and their families find their health blocks, build a village and their support tools (like babywearing). Mostly, I love making another mummas day easier! Postpartum care and planning is a key focus of our consults and doula prep. Please note doula work is unavailable from July 2026 as I'm on maternity leave. As a mum, you are often the foundation of the household so your health makes or breaks it, despite so many of us putting ourselves last on the list. I have a passion for helping new mums and children find their unique version of healthy and create simple and efficient routines that support true wellbeing so you can feel alive and clear each day. I love connecting the herbs to your everyday life, building a routine that supports you physically, mentally and emotionally (take a peek at the dispensary). Since my own postpartum, I saw a need for more in person and tangible postpartum support. I work directly with new mum's with in house visits via my doula package which combines food and herbal medicine with the emotional support of an in person visit/ helper and I couldn't be more fulfilled. Offerings... Naturopathy I work with clients on their fertility, preconception care all the way through to postpartum. The goal is customised and achievable health. We plan together and work with herbs, nutrients, nutrition and lifestyle factors to get your where you want to be - feeling great! I want to know more Doula I offer mum's local to Ipswich and south-west Brisbane support that’s as nurturing as it is practical—helping you not just survive, but truly thrive in your postpartum journey. This includes some meal prep, carrier help and whatever else takes things off your plate. Read about postpartum care Babywearing Whether you're a first-time parent or an experienced caregiver, I’ll show you how to wear your baby in a way that promotes bonding, supports your baby’s development, and gives you the freedom to go about your day hands-free. Check out the carrier library Book a service now Blog posts Postpartum Belling Binding - Bengkung The Art of Belly Binding: Nurturing Your Postpartum Recovery with a Bengkung Wrap The postpartum period is a time of deep transformation — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. After pregnancy and birth, your body begins the beautiful process of healing and rebalancing. One traditional practice that has supported this transition for centuries is belly binding , particularly through the use of a Bengkung wrap . It's one of the tools I keep in my doula bag for mums who are Mickayla 3 Signs You May Need Postpartum Support (and What That Support Can Look Like) Bringing a new baby into the world is beautiful, but let’s be honest — it can also feel like a tidal wave. The fourth trimester, that sacred and intense period after birth, often gets overlooked in our culture of “bouncing back.” But what if you feel anything but okay? What if you’re wondering whether how you feel is normal — or a sign you might need more support? Let’s talk about three signs you might benefit from postpartum support — and what that support can look like fr Mickayla Unlock Better Digestion and Health with the Gut Self-Help Program (GSHP) If you’re looking for lasting solutions to digestive discomfort, skin flare-ups, fatigue, or low immunity, our GSHP is designed to guide you Mickayla Subscribe to the podcast Follow us on Instagram #wix @postpartum_naturopath Load More