The Lunar New Year is a time of renewal—a chance to reflect, reset, and embrace new rhythms for the year ahead. Whether you’re celebrating with family traditions, setting intentions, or simply welcoming the fresh start that comes with the season, this is an opportunity to cultivate habits that nourish both body and mind.
For expecting parents, this season of renewal takes on even deeper significance. Pregnancy is a journey of continuous change, and just as the lunar calendar moves through cycles, so too does the rhythm of your body. As you prepare for the arrival of your baby, consider how small, intentional shifts in your daily routine can support your well-being in the months ahead.
1. Aligning with Natural Rhythms
Many cultures celebrating the Lunar New Year emphasize harmony—between past and future, yin and yang, and the cycles of nature. During pregnancy, tuning into your body’s needs is key. Instead of focusing on rigid milestones or trends, honor the steady rhythm of nourishment that supports both you and your growing baby. Rather than overhauling your entire lifestyle, think about simple, sustainable shifts: consistent hydration, balanced meals using seasonal produce, mindful movement according to your circadian rhythms, and rest.
2. Food as a Foundation
Lunar New Year is deeply tied to food traditions, with each dish carrying symbolic meaning—longevity, prosperity, health. This emphasis on nourishment aligns beautifully with pregnancy. Choosing real, whole foods rich in essential nutrients ensures that you and your baby receive the best support. At Tend, we believe in the power of food-based nutrients because they are naturally absorbed and work in harmony with your body.
“I’ve had Tend (almost) daily for the last two years and never get tired of them! I wanted a prenatal that had sufficient nutrients in it and just couldn’t stomach all the powders or taking 8+ pills a day. Tend was the answer!” – Kara B.
Consider incorporating traditional, nutrient-dense foods into your prenatal routine alongside Tend. Iron-rich leafy greens, omega-3-rich fish, and warming soups with ginger and goji berries are not only comforting but also packed with essential nutrients for pregnancy.
3. Creating Restorative Rituals
New rhythms aren’t just about action—they’re also about rest. In many cultures, the Lunar New Year is a time to pause, reflect, and welcome good energy into the home and body. Establishing gentle rituals, whether it’s an evening walk, a few moments of deep breathing, or a mindful tea-drinking practice, can help create a sense of calm amidst the changes of pregnancy.
“I just had an incredibly emotional release after eating my first Tend bar, being able to keep it down, enjoying it (which feels hard to say about much lately), and knowing it’s providing my body and baby’s with so much. Truly, thank you.” –Sarah S.
4. Moving Forward with Intention
As you step into this new year, embrace rhythms that feel natural and supportive. Your prenatal journey is uniquely yours—there’s no need for perfection, just your presence and attention. Small, nourishing choices made consistently over time lay the foundation for long-term well-being. Whether you’re celebrating with family, honoring traditions, or simply welcoming the fresh start that the season brings, we hope this new year brings you health, balance, and joy.
It has been a long January for so many. We hope the start of Lunar New Year can be a fresh, restorative beginning. See below for a fun recipe to try – a modern twist on the traditional new year rice cake.
Red Bean Rice Cake (Dduk)
Adapted from Joanne Molinaro's recipe (@thekoreanvegan)
- 1 box (454 g) Mochiko sweet white rice flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cups non-dairy milk (ie. almond milk)
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup roasted chestnuts
- 1 can sweet red bean paste (15-18 oz)
- Mix together non-dairy milk and white wine vinegar to create a vegan buttermilk. Set aside.
- Place all dry ingredients in large bowl and stir using a wooden spoon.
- Add red bean paste.
- Add sesame oil and slowly incorporate vegan buttermilk until batter forms.
- Fold in remaining ingredients (nuts and raisins) with spatula.
- Scoop into muffin tray or place in large cake rectangular cake pan (sprayed with cooking oil or lined with parchment paper).
- Bake at 350° F for 1 hour, until outside is golden brown and firm.
The inside will be gooey and delicious!
From all of us at Tend, wishing you a happy new year. ✨
