Eastern wisdom
Sanhujori
The Korean tradition of caring for a mother after birth.
What it is
A tradition of recovery
Sanhujori is the Korean practice of caring for a woman in the weeks after she gives birth. It is centred on three things: warmth, nourishing food and rest.
The mother is not expected to resume ordinary life straight away. Instead, she is cared for, so that she can recover.
Its place in Korean culture
Care as a matter of course
In Korea, sanhujori is widely understood as a natural part of having a baby. Families have long gathered around a new mother to keep her warm, feed her and let her rest.
The tradition expresses something simple: that the weeks after birth matter, and that a mother deserves to be looked after in them.
In the three pillars
How its principles live on
Warmth
Keeping the body warm and protected, in surroundings that are calm and comfortable.
Nourishment
Food prepared with care, as part of recovery rather than an afterthought.
Rest
Real rest, with others carrying what would otherwise fall to you.
Honoured and adapted
Respectful of the tradition
What we honour
The core of sanhujori: that a mother is kept warm, nourished and rested, and that she is not expected to manage alone.
What we adapt
We bring these principles together with Western midwifery care, and shape the stay around you and your family rather than a fixed set of rules.
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.