W.E.I.R.D. vs. SLOW: Why Modern Culture is Failing New Parents (and how we can change things)

Have you ever heard of the acronym W.E.I.R.D.? It stands for Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, and Democratic—terms that describe much of the society we live in today. But could this culture, with its emphasis on productivity and individualism, be harming the wellbeing of new mothers, parents, and babies?

In this episode of the Slow Postpartum Podcast, I explore the historical and cultural shifts that have transformed postpartum care. From the communal caregiving of early human societies, known as alloparenting, to the isolating effects of our modern "W.E.I.R.D." culture, we look at how the transition from shared responsibilities to nuclear families—particularly since the Industrial Revolution—has left many mothers and families overwhelmed and unsupported. I also discuss why the philosophy of a slow postpartum, which encourages new mothers to rest, heal, and bond with their babies at a natural pace, free from societal pressures, is something we need to reclaim and practice today.

In this episode, we explore:

• The concept of "W.E.I.R.D" culture (Western, Educated, Industrial, Rich, Democratic) and its impact on postpartum care.

• Historical and indigenous practices of alloparenting and communal infant care.

• How the Industrial Revolution shifted postpartum care to isolated nuclear families.

• The harmful myths surrounding motherhood and the pressure to "bounce back" after birth.

• The physiological and emotional benefits of embracing a slow postpartum for stress reduction and nervous system regulation.

• How a calm and supported postpartum can positively impact newborns through co-regulation.

• Practical tips for creating a restorative postpartum experience.

Key takeaways:

1. Rest is essential after giving birth. Create a rest-centered postpartum plan that prioritizes recovery.

2. Ask for help and build a support network during pregnancy to ensure you have the assistance you need postpartum.

3. Nourish your body and soul with warming, nutritious meals and mindfulness practices to support physical healing and emotional well-being.

I also discuss how birth professionals, such as doulas, can foster a slow postpartum for their clients and contribute to this much-needed cultural shift.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

[Slow Postpartum Kitchen Cookbook] – Grab a copy of Jojo's nourishing recipes for postpartum healing.

Free eBooks: One for expectant/new parents and one for doulas/birth professionals.