An introductory seminar exploring the science and faith of ‘garbha sanskars’ was held on Saturday 17 November 2018 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Leicester.
Titled ‘Roots to Results’, the seminar educated more than 60 expectant and hoping-to-be young parents on how to foster a happy and healthy pregnancy and to create a holistically conducive environment for their garbha (foetus).
The seminar was organised by volunteers of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Leicester, and included contributions from senior and learned swamis as well as qualified medical professionals.
Sadguru Pujya Doctor Swami (Swayamprakash Swami) imparted his words of spiritual wisdom from India via a video recording, while Manoharmurti Swami spoke of Hindu teachings from the scriptures and drew upon several illustrious examples.
Parents also shared their personal experiences of positive outcomes from their own religious practices during pregnancy.
Medical professionals elaborated on recent scientific research and evidence supporting some of the benefits of garbha sanskars. Experts also emphasised ‘sattvik’ (spiritually wholesome) nutrition and exercise during pregnancy as an essential aspect of the pre-natal regimen.
Exposure to music was another aspect that was covered during the seminar. Music has been evidenced as an important tool in stimulating the foetal nervous system. This has also been observed through examples of newly born babies settling better and calming down with the sound of familiar music.
Medical experts also spoke about the mental and physical well-being of the parents which has provided a significant benefit to the unborn child.
Several delegates shared positive feedback on the content and delivery of the seminar. One expectant mother wrote: “Thank you so much for organising such an enlightening seminar. I will use many of the techniques discussed to prepare for the birth of my child. The concepts were very practically explained and I am confident the teachings will help my child throughout the pregnancy and after birth. I look forward to sharing some of this with fellow expectant mothers during my birthing classes.”