See these impressive cupping marks all over this daddy’s back?
The man in this picture is Taiwanese blogger Mr. Bird, who runs a travelling blog with his wife, Mrs. Bird.
The couple have published 4 travelling guides and have been appointed as Taiwan's travelling ambassadors for 2017. Mr. and Mrs. Bird live their lives to the fullest, and are never afraid to dream big.
This dad went for a cupping therapy to get rid of the tension in his back from taking care of a newborn. Judging by the colour of the cupping marks, he’s exhausted!
We reached out to the couple who took this photo that gave us all the feels. So, here goes...Mr. and Mrs. Bird share with theAsianparent their lives as new dad and mum.
What is the biggest challenge of taking care of the baby on your own?
“Finding the right nanny is very challenging. Both of us are working from 7 am to 6 pm. We can only trust that our nanny is doing the best she can to take care of our baby,” says Mrs. Bird.
Like every working mum, Mrs. Bird is constantly worrying about the well-being of her baby. But she remains positive.
“Babies just don’t find deep voice appealing. I even tried OM-ing, it only worked for a few seconds. Then he kept on crying,” Mr. Bird answers with a hint of frustration in his voice.
“But I guess every dad goes through the same thing. I’m not giving up just because of this,” he says.
Did you experience difficulties during breastfeeding?
“Indeed! Breastfeeding is extremely hard for a working mum. The best I can do is keep to the pumping schedule while I’m at work and breastfeed him when I get home.” says Mrs. Bird.
“My breast milk supply is not enough so I’m giving him formula milk as well. But it’s such a big challenge for mums emotionally and physically. Even though I’ve said to myself over and over again, ‘take it easy’, but I can’t help but feel like I’ve let my baby down sometimes.” she continues.
“Especially when everyone is telling you how great breast milk is for the baby, and how easy it is for mothers to produce milk. It’s not helping at all. This gets to me every time.” she says.
Do you have mood swings because of the stress?
“Yes. Also because the post-partum hormones are still acting crazy. I cry at the smallest thing. It’s important to have your friends and family’s support because us new mums are very fragile right now. Mr. Bird is always telling me ‘It’s okay, relax’. I can’t do this without him.” says Mrs. Bird.
Did you notice any changes in your partner?
Mr. Bird answered immediately. “Yes. She’s a lot more patient, and more gentle.” I can almost see their faces radiating with love right now.
From high school sweethearts to partners for life. What’s their secret in keeping a 12-year relationship going?
“Communication is the key. We talk about everything. Any ideas or feelings that we have, we tell each other right away.” says Mrs. Bird.
What’s next on your list?
Mrs. Bird replies with a cheery voice, “We’re taking our baby to see the Northern Lights!”
This may sound impossible to some, but we know their love can make even the farthest corner of the Earth within their reach.
Here's wishing these new parents lots of love, good health and happiness!
Cupping therapy
Cupping is a TCM therapy in which plastic or glass cups are used to apply suction and heat to meridian points on the body. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, cupping is said to address health issues such as:
- Muscle Aches and rheumatism
- Flu or cold
- Weight management
- Blood disorders such as anaemia and haemophilia
- Fertility and gynecological disorders
- Skin problems such as eczema and acne
- High blood pressure
- Migraines
- Anxiety and depression
- Bronchial congestion caused by allergies and asthma
- Varicose veins
- General health maintenance
Who can go for cupping therapy
According to this article, patients who should avoid cupping include those with existing health conditions like diabetes, cholesterol, high blood pressure, and pregnant mummies.
Some side effects that have been reported are:
- Mild discomfort
- Burns
- Bruises
- Skin infection
It is best to talk with to your doctor before you start cupping therapy, or any other type of alternative or complementary medicine. And talk extensively with your cupping therapist, too, including his training and years of experience.
Also READ: Why TCM massage is good for your little one
(Source: WebMD, Eu Yan Sang)
