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Journal

Notes on warmth, nourishment and rest

Considered writing on the weeks after birth.

Journal · The weeks after birth

What is the fourth trimester?

The fourth trimester describes the first weeks after birth, when mother and baby are both adjusting. What it means, and why it deserves care.

Journal · Recovery

Recovering after birth: warmth, nourishment and rest

A calm guide to recovery after birth, built on three principles: warmth, nourishment and rest, with expert care close by.

Journal · Choosing your care

Kraamhotel or kraamzorg at home?

In the Netherlands, postnatal care usually comes to you at home. A kraamhotel or postpartum retreat is another option. How they differ.

Journal · Choosing your care

Postpartum doula or postpartum retreat?

A postpartum doula supports you at home; a postpartum retreat cares for you away from it. A calm comparison to help you choose.

Journal · Tradition

Sanhujori and confinement: postpartum traditions of the East

Sanhujori is the Korean tradition of postpartum care. How it relates to confinement traditions elsewhere, and what it teaches about recovery.

Journal · International families

English-speaking postpartum care in the Netherlands

For expats giving birth in the Netherlands: how Dutch postnatal care works, and where to find support in English.

Journal · International families

Giving birth in the Netherlands as an expat

A calm overview for international families: midwife-led care, kraamzorg at home, and how to plan the weeks after birth far from family.

Journal · International families

Registering for kraamzorg: a short guide

How kraamzorg registration works in the Netherlands, what to ask your insurer, and how to request care in English.

Journal · Choosing your care

Postpartum retreat or confinement centre?

Confinement centres are common in parts of East Asia. How a postpartum retreat in Europe relates to them, and how they differ.

Journal · Tradition

Miyeokguk: the seaweed soup of sanhujori

Miyeokguk, Korean seaweed soup, is traditionally served to mothers after birth. Its place in sanhujori and in Korean family life.

Journal · Recovery

Why warmth matters after birth

Warmth is the first principle of sanhujori. What keeping warm means in postpartum traditions, and how it shapes a calm recovery.

Journal · Recovery

Rest in the first weeks after birth

Rest is the work of recovery. Gentle thoughts on protecting sleep and quiet in the first weeks after birth.

The waiting list

A place is held for you

The Fourth Sanctuary is preparing to open. Join the waiting list and we will be in touch personally.

Join the waiting listDiscover the retreat