By Anna Cave-Bigley

When I became a mum for the first time, I thought I was prepared. I had washed the tiny clothes, organised the nappies, stocked the freezer, read every list and every book.

But none of them prepared me for me, for how I would feel inside my own body and mind.

After my son was born, I slipped into postpartum depression quietly, almost invisibly. I kept telling myself I was just tired… just overwhelmed… just adjusting. But the truth was my world had shifted in a way I couldn’t name. My hormones crashed, my sleep disappeared, my sense of self felt paper-thin. And in the middle of caring for a newborn, I realised I had forgotten to care for myself entirely.

There was no survival kit for that version of motherhood, the version where you’re healing, bleeding, crying, and trying so hard to hold it all together.

Years later, and three babies in, I understand this season differently. I understand how much the body is working to recalibrate. I understand how deeply the brain and hormones change. And I understand how desperately mothers need support: physically, emotionally, nutritionally, in those tender, chaotic weeks.

That’s why I care so much about postpartum tools that actually help.
That’s why we created Mama Recover.
That’s why I will never stop talking about what mothers truly need.

Because no mother should feel like she has to disappear in order to care for her baby. Postpartum is not just about survival — it’s about support, nourishment, and slowly finding your way back to yourself.

Xx,
Anna
Co-Founder of The SABI

Postpartum Recovery: What Every New Mum Needs

The postpartum journey looks different for every woman, but nearly all new mothers experience:

• Hormonal fluctuations that can trigger postpartum anxiety, mood swings, and fatigue.

• Nutrient depletion from pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding, leaving them physically exhausted.

• Disrupted sleep cycles, which can increase stress levels and emotional sensitivity.

• Physical discomfort from vaginal birth or C-section recovery, requiring gentle, supportive care.

A new mum’s survival kit should address these needs holistically, combining targeted nourishment, stress relief, and physical healing tools.

WHAT’S DRAINING YOU VS WHAT REBUILDS YOU

Essential Items for a New Mum’s Survival Kit

1. Hormone-Balancing Postpartum Infusion

Why It’s Essential: The postpartum body undergoes rapid hormonal shifts, often leading to emotional instability, poor sleep, and stress. A carefully crafted postpartum herbal tea can help regulate cortisol, replenish vital nutrients, and promote a sense of calm.

Mama Recover, a postnatal recovery infusion, is formulated with adaptogens and mineral-rich botanicals to gently support a mother’s recovery:

• Holy Basil & Oat Straw – Known for reducing stress hormones and promoting emotional balance.

• Stinging Nettles & Raspberry Leaf – Packed with iron and calcium to rebuild strength and combat postpartum fatigue.

• Lady’s Mantle – Traditionally used to support uterine healing and hormonal recalibration.

Sipping a replenishing postpartum tea is not just about nourishment—it’s a ritual of self-care in a chaotic time.

2. Nutrient-Dense, Easy-to-Digest Foods

Why It’s Essential: Many postpartum women struggle to prepare nutritious meals while recovering. A survival kit should include ready-to-eat, healing foods rich in protein, healthy fats, and slow-releasing carbohydrates.

• Bone broth or plant-based mineral broths – Supports gut health and tissue repair.

• Omega-3-rich foods (chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts) – Helps reduce inflammation and stabilise mood.

• Dark leafy greens & seeds – Natural sources of magnesium and calcium to ease stress.

Consider preparing frozen, one-handed snacks like energy balls or oat bars, which are easy to eat while nursing or rocking a baby to sleep.

3. Magnesium for Relaxation & Sleep

Why It’s Essential: Postpartum insomnia and interrupted sleep cycles are common due to hormonal fluctuations and nighttime feedings. Magnesium is a natural relaxant that helps regulate the nervous system and improve sleep quality.

• Magnesium chloride bath flakes – Promote muscle relaxation and stress relief.

• Magnesium glycinate supplements – Supports deep, restful sleep.

• Magnesium oil spray – Quick absorption for immediate relaxation.

For an added layer of self-care, pairing a postnatal recovery tea with a warm magnesium bath in the evening can work wonders.

4. Supportive Skincare & Body Care

Why It’s Essential: The postpartum body is healing, and gentle, nourishing skincare that is all natural and free from any chemicals that could disrupt your already teetering hormonal balance can ease discomfort and promote recovery.

• Perineal cooling pads – Offer relief from vaginal birth recovery.

• C-section scar balm – Helps reduce inflammation and scar tightness.

• Hydrating body oils – Combat dry skin caused by hormonal changes.

• Herbal sitz bath blends – Soothes soreness and promotes healing.

5. Emotional Support & Mental Health Check-Ins

Why It’s Essential: Many new mums experience emotional highs and lows, yet feel reluctant to talk about it. Encouraging open conversations reduces isolation and normalises postpartum mood shifts.

• Journal & guided prompts – Helps process thoughts and emotions.

• Mindfulness or meditation apps – Encourages relaxation and grounding.

• Check-ins with loved ones – A simple “How are you really feeling?” can make all the difference.

If a new mum is experiencing persistent postpartum anxiety or depression, professional support is essential. No one should navigate postpartum mental health challenges alone.

Rethinking Postpartum Gifts: Prioritising the Mother’s Wellness

A true new mum’s survival kit isn’t just about convenience—it’s about thoughtful, science-backed support for a mother’s physical and emotional well-being.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, wellness-focused gift for a new mum, consider essentials that promote healing, nourishment, and balance.

Mama Recover is a powerful addition to any postpartum care package, offering hormonal support, emotional grounding, and restorative nutrients to help new mothers feel nourished, steady, and strong.

For more grounding, comfort, and clarity in postpartum →

• Postpartum depression: you are not alone
• Defining your postpartum village 
• Top 12 Meaningful Gifts for Breastfeeding Mums

References

1. Kendall-Tackett, K. (2007). A new paradigm for depression in new mothers: The central role of inflammation and how breastfeeding and anti-inflammatory treatments protect maternal mental health. International Breastfeeding Journal.

2. O’Hara, M. W., & McCabe, J. E. (2013). Postpartum depression: Current status and future directions. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology.

3. Brummelte, S., & Galea, L. A. (2016). Postpartum depression: Etiology, treatment, and consequences for maternal care. Hormones and Behavior.

4. Groer, M. W. (2005). Differences between exclusive breastfeeders, formula-feeders, and controls in immune function, mood, and maternal-infant bonding. Biological Research for Nursing.

HORMONAL & PROUD

Created as a brand to help women navigate the toughest moments in pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum — and practically every stage of life –– The SABI is changing the narrative around our hormones from one of taboo, embarrassment, and loneliness to awareness and even, pride. As more than a wellness brand, The SABI offers a carefully-crafted line of products to carry you through your hormonal journey, including rituals, supportive tools, and ancient herbal remedies that have been tested time and time again by women and now come backed by medicine. The SABI is a blend of science and nature conceived by women who have experienced the joys and deep struggles of bringing a child into the world, the pains of a heavy, difficult period, miscarriage, and difficulty conceiving.

We invite you to get to know your body and its cycles better –– to really understand what is going on inside. Learn to use your hormones to your advantage no matter your stage of life, and know that you can support and balance your hormone levels. We are here to help with the information, understanding and natural tools to support your body and the emotional process along with it.

DISCLAIMER

The SABI blog and articles are not meant to instruct or advise on medical or health conditions, but to inform. The information and opinions presented here do not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals for your unique situation.