Early movement is so important during postpartum! You don’t receive education about this from most birth providers. Humans are not meant to be on bed rest and movement helps facilitate healing. Movement helps decrease swelling, while promoting blood flow to those healing tissues. Movement also helps tendons and ligaments heal well.
As far as "safe" movements go - it depends on your birth experience and what you were doing for movement throughout pregnancy. There are movements that are right for you, and movements that won't be. But movement is not a safety concern unless you are doing something extreme. In early postpartum, it is better to progress slowly, than to progress too quickly and risk injury or delaying recovery.
The first movement I love is getting postpartum women onto all fours for pelvic tilts and breath work - we generally are lying a lot on our backs and butts in those early recovery days. Really think about breathing into your booty when you are starting that breath work!
You can also add in pelvic tilts and breath work lying on your back - especially if you had a cesarean birth and all fours position feels too intense.
The other movements I love having women start with are chest opening type movements. A simple movement is seated rotation at the shoulders. You could also try thread the needle or a standing door way chest opener as well.
Check out these movements and more over on my Instagram.
These movements are all generally safe for immediately after vaginal or cesarean birth. Start slowly and ease into them. Focus on your breath and avoid tensing through movements. Going for short walks is a great addition to these movements too!
If you’re looking for more - check out my empowered pregnancy program which covers you for postpartum too! I also offer one on one coaching specific to the postpartum period - I have two openings for December clients and anticipate four openings in January!
What guidance do you wish you had for early postpartum?
With peace and love,
Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
Doc Halley Solutions
Follow me on Instagram + TikTok for more content - ellynhalley.dc
In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!
If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support.
Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:
Looking for a comprehensive birth education that covers more than birth? Join Meghan Tomlinson (Rooted Birth + Family) and I on Sunday, January 25th 2026 10a-3p in Holmen, WI at The Hive. Class includes a spot for you + a partner. Light snacks + refreshments provided. You will receive a workbook + 5 hours packed full of valuable information! Register here
I am looking for doulas or women who are ready to take their doula training to join my team! You can learn more here (you will have to request access to view this document).
**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
