Ladies, if you’re hoping to shed some weight with an abdominal wrap, think again.
If you’re a new mom who is hoping to regain your pre-pregnancy body almost immediately, stop right there.
Take a deep breath.
Some of you might not know everything there is to enveloping your tummy for weight loss. Want to know more about belly binding? Here’s your guide to the Malaysian style.
BELLY BINDING
Bengkung or waist girdle is a tradition that originates in Malaysia. New mothers would bind their bellies using a long cloth from under the chest to below the hips for about 44 days post-natal. The custom began with princesses generations ago and is still practised in the countryside. Nowadays there’s a growing resurgence among urban dwellers too, with more modern options such as belly binders using velcro or plastic clips to fasten the binder easily.
Though, do be careful. Modern options usually have boning which can dig into the skin and cause pain as you move about. Plus, unlike the traditional bengkung, most of them only bind the stomach area only. Hence, pushing down on the pelvic floor muscles and organs, potentially worsening the lower body.
How does it help?
Bengkung belly binding helps to:
- Hold the muscles together and speed up closure to prevent diastasis recti.
- Relieve pain and get you moving.
- Increase blood flow.
- Lowers swelling from surgery.
- Better posture for breastfeeding.
- Support your back and pelvic floor.
It’s important to remember that belly binding will not give you an hourglass figure as it’s not waist training but merely a supportive device for the abdomen.
Our bodies transform almost daily. Keep in mind that your body’s primary goal is to sustain a healthy you. Belly binding can be beneficial but do discuss this with your doctor to ensure that it’s safe for you to bind your belly.
Sources: Healthline, WebMD, Medical News Today
