When will you go on Dog Day?
Complete guide to praying for safe delivery during the fifth month of pregnancy
How to choose a belly band and visiting a shrine
"Do I really have to go on the Day of the Dog?"
For pregnant women who have such questions.
I want to do something for my baby,
My mind is torn between my physical condition and practical constraints...
We will use the knowledge of a midwife who has worked with 3,000 pregnant women.
We will tell you the true meaning of Inu no Hi and how to pray for an easy delivery in your own way.
By the time you finish reading this guide,
"Oh, so that's what it was!" I thought with understanding.
It will deepen your feelings for your baby.
Isn't the real meaning of Dog Day to be safe childbirth?
The scientific basis for the birthing power of dogs that pregnant women don't know about
Why "dogs"? The hidden meaning behind the reason
"Why do we pray for safe childbirth on Dog Day?"
This is a simple question that many pregnant women have.
In fact, the true meaning of Inu no Hi is not just "easy childbirth."
Dogs give birth to 4-6 puppies at a time,
Mother dogs are known for their dedication to raising their puppies and their deep affection for them.
People in the past used to call this dog
"Preparation to become a mother" and "Deep love for children"
I learned that.
Modern obstetricians and gynecologists are also paying attention to
This is the relaxed state a dog is in when giving birth.
When a dog gives birth, it naturally regulates its breathing.
Relax and welcome your baby.
This is the modern "sophrology" method of childbirth.
It's the same principle.
In other words, on the day of the dog,
"The heart of a mother who pours love into her baby"
It's also a day to check it out.
Pitfalls of calculating the day of the dog in the fifth month of pregnancy
Can't we just follow the calendar?
How to prioritize your health when scheduling
"Day of the Dog in the 5th month of pregnancy"
Why it's not an absolute rule
"Does it have to be on that day when I'm 5 months pregnant?"
This is a question that many pregnant women have.
In fact, during the fifth month of pregnancy (16-19 weeks),
"When your belly starts to get bigger and you can really feel the baby's presence"
It is set in this sense.
In other words, even if it is not strictly "the day of the dog in the 18th week of pregnancy,"
It is enough to take it on a day of the dog when you are feeling well.
Obstetricians and gynaecologists recommend
"When morning sickness has subsided and your stomach isn't too heavy yet."
This is a worship service.
Although it varies from person to person, for many pregnant women
The best time is between the second half of the fourth month and the first half of the sixth month of pregnancy.
"The day of the dog on the calendar coincided with my illness..."
In such cases, don't push yourself and choose the next day of the dog.
What's important is,
"The feeling of facing the baby in your belly"
It's not the accuracy of the date.
Many of the older mothers visited the shrine when they were seven months pregnant.
"I felt the baby more strongly then."
Some people say this.
5 Alternatives for When You Can't Go to Dog Day
To mothers who cannot visit the shrine due to morning sickness, poor health, or COVID-19
"I feel sorry for the baby because I couldn't go..."
There's no need to feel that guilty
"I couldn't go to the shrine on the day of the dog... I might have done something bad to the baby."
There's absolutely no need to feel guilty about that.
In fact, about 30% of modern pregnant women
For some reason, I am refraining from visiting the shrine on the day of the dog.
[Alternative 1] Praying at home
Place your hands together at a Shinto altar or in a quiet place.
Take time to pray for the baby's health.
Alternative 2: Online prayer
Many shrines offer mail-order and online prayer services.
[Alternative 3] Visit after recovering
Prayers for safe delivery can be made on days other than the day of the dog.
[Alternative 4] Visit the shrine on your partner's behalf
Visiting the shrine on behalf of the husband or family is also a great way to pray for a safe delivery.
[Alternative 5] Prepare only the belly band first
Even if you plan to pray at a later date, you should start by protecting your stomach with a belly band.
What's important is your ``feelings for your baby.''
A mother's love is more important than formality
It is the ultimate prayer for safe delivery.
A thorough comparison of belly bands vs. girdles
Obstetrician-gynecologist recommended products and how to choose the right one for your body type
"Which abdominal belt is best?"
The definitive guide for unsure pregnant women
"There are so many types of abdominal bands, I don't know which one to choose..."
I often hear this voice from pregnant women.
In fact, the most important thing when choosing a belly band is
It's about what suits your body type and lifestyle .
[Blank type] Traditional and adjustable
・Advantages: Fully adaptable to changes in body shape, excellent breathability
Disadvantages: It takes time to get used to winding.
・Suitable for: People who want careful care and spend a lot of time at home
[Girdle type] A friend to modern moms
・Advantages: Easy to put on and take off, convenient for going out, easy to wash
Disadvantages: Choosing the right size is important, and it gets stuffy easily.
・Suitable for: Working pregnant women, those who prioritize time saving
[Belt type] Supports only the stomach
・Advantages: Pinpoint support, does not affect clothing
Disadvantages: Poor overall support
Suitable for: Mainly for lower back pain, for use in summer
Obstetrician-Gynecologist Advice:
"It's best to use multiple types as your baby grows."
Complete guide to dress code for visiting shrines on the day of the dog
Seasonal outfits that make you look beautiful even when pregnant
"What clothes look good even when pregnant?"
The correct way to visit a shrine
"My belly is starting to show and I'm not sure what to wear..."
This is a point that many pregnant women worry about when visiting a shrine on the day of the dog.
The basics of visiting a shrine are cleanliness and showing respect .
Since you are a pregnant woman, you should adjust your posture within your limits.
[Spring and Autumn Shrine Visit Coordination]
・Tops: loose cardigan + innerwear
・Bottoms: Maternity dress or leggings
・Footwear: Flat pumps or sneakers
[Summer shrine visit coordination]
・Important sun protection: A thin long-sleeved cardigan is essential
・Cool materials: linen and cotton maternity wear
・Footwear: Avoid sandals and wear breathable sneakers
[Winter shrine visit coordination]
・Emphasis on cold weather: Maternity coat, belly warmer innerwear
・Footwear: Non-slip boots or thick-soled sneakers
Clothing that should be avoided at all costs
・Exposing clothing (chest, feet)
・High heels (3cm or more)
Clothes that are too tight (pressure on the stomach)
The important thing is to "dress in a way that conveys your feelings for your baby."
It doesn't have to be expensive.
Recommended shrine rankings for safe childbirth in Kanto and Kansai
Compare access, congestion, and benefits through on-site surveys
"Which shrine is best?" Truly recommended shrines selected from the perspective of pregnant women
"There are many famous shrines, but which ones are really good for pregnant women?"
We have collected the opinions of pregnant women who have actually visited the shrine.
[Kanto Area TOP 3]
1st place: Suitengu Shrine (Tokyo)
Access: 1 minute walk from Suitengumae Station, a location that is friendly to pregnant women
・Crowdiness: Weekday mornings are recommended (very crowded on weekends)
・Features: Elevator equipped, rest area available
2nd place: Kou Shrine (Saitama)
Access: Convenient to visit by car, parking available
・Crowding level: Relatively empty, you can worship at your own pace
・Features: A shrine with a legendary stork, famous for blessing children and safe childbirth
3rd place: Koyasu Shrine (Hachioji, Tokyo)
Access: Bus from Hachioji Station, surrounded by nature
・Crowding level: A hidden spot, you can avoid crowds
Characteristics: Long-standing belief in safe childbirth, locally based
[Kansai Area TOP 3]
1st place: Nakayama-dera Temple (Hyogo)
Access: 1 minute walk from Nakayama Kannon Station, the most popular safe childbirth prayer in the Kansai region
・Crowding level: It gets crowded on the Day of the Dog, but the facilities are excellent
・Features: 1,400 years of history, prestigious shrine visited by the Imperial family
2nd place: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine (Osaka)
Access: Right next to Sumiyoshi Taisha Station, perfect for sightseeing
・Features: Beautiful architecture and a spiritually refreshing worship experience
3rd place: Shiki Shrine (Kyoto)
Access: Kyoto city, popularly known as Wara Tenjin
・Features: Famous for its rice straw charms and unique warmth
The key points to consider when choosing are "easy access" and "consideration for pregnant women."
More than the benefits, the most important thing is to be able to visit without any stress.
👉Proper way to worship at a shrine and offerings
💡Choosing a shrine when going with your family
Is 5,000 yen an appropriate initial offering for worship on the day of the dog?
How to write a gift envelope, how to wrap money, and basic shrine etiquette
"How much should I give?" The average price for offering money and proper etiquette
"How much is the usual amount to give as an offering? 5,000 yen? 10,000 yen?"
We will answer the most concerning question about the cost of visiting a shrine on the day of the dog.
In fact, there is no "correct" amount for the first offering.
This is because it is an expression of the wish for the baby's health .
[General market price for first offerings]
・5,000 yen: The most expensive amount, within a reasonable range
・10,000 yen: If you have some extra money
・3,000 yen: Suitable for students and newlyweds
What's important is "correct etiquette" rather than the amount.
[How to write on a gift envelope]
・Top line of envelope: "First offering" or "Prayer for safe delivery"
・Bottom of the envelope: Couple's last name "○○" (full names are also OK)
・Carefully write with a brush pen or brush
How to wrap money
・Use new bills (have them exchanged at a bank)
・Align the banknotes (portraits facing up)
・Write your address, name, and amount on the inner envelope
[Flow on the day of worship]
1. Purify yourself at the chozuya (left hand → right hand → rinse your mouth)
2. Bow slightly in front of the worship hall
3. Put in your offering (small coins are fine)
4. Two bows, two claps, one bow
5. Hand over the offering at the prayer reception desk
The people at the shrine are very kind,
Please feel free to ask if you don't understand something.
The most important thing is to have a heart that cares for the baby .
Is the event canceled due to rain on the Day of the Dog? The truth behind the issue of Butsumetsu
No need to worry about the Rokuyo calendar! A realistic way to decide on a date
"The Day of the Dog falls on a day of Butsumetsu... is that bad luck?" There's no need to worry.
"This coming day of the dog is a day of bad luck... Should I refrain from visiting the shrine?"
We receive this type of consultation often, but please rest assured.
In fact, "the Rokuyo (Taian, Butsumetsu, etc.) has absolutely no connection to Shinto."
Rokuyo is a calendar concept that was introduced from China.
It does not affect prayers at Japanese shrines.
Many Shinto priests have also stated that there is no need to worry.
[About visiting on rainy days]
There is no need to worry about whether it would be rude to the gods if it rained.
・Rain is considered sacred in Shinto as "purifying water."
・In fact, some say that "visiting on a rainy day brings special benefits."
・It is completely fine to visit the shrine with an umbrella.
[Key points for determining a realistic schedule]
1st place: Mom's health (top priority)
2nd place: Weather (whether it is safe to visit the shrine)
3. Family schedule
4th place: Shrine congestion
5th place: Calendars such as the Rokuyo calendar (almost no consideration required)
[Change your schedule in these cases]
・Days when morning sickness is severe
- Bad weather such as typhoons
・A day when you are worried about your health
God puts the health of pregnant women first.
"The best prayer for an easy delivery is to not push yourself too hard."
It's not the format that matters,
It's a pure feeling of longing for the baby in my belly.
Couples only on the day of the dog vs. parents-in-law
How to pray for an easy birth without destroying family relationships
"My parents-in-law wanted to come, but I want to go just my wife and I." That feeling is perfectly natural.
"My mother-in-law said, 'Let's go to the shrine together on the day of the dog,' but
To be honest, I would like to visit the shrine quietly just as a couple..."
There are a lot of pregnant women who have this problem.
First of all, you should know:
"Neither choice is wrong."
[Benefits of visiting as a couple]
・You can visit at your own pace
・You can have quiet conversation time with your baby
Flexible response when you are unwell
・Photos can be taken naturally
[Benefits of bringing family]
・A sense of unity as everyone welcomes the baby
・Take memorable family photos
・Support from experienced mothers (mothers-in-law)
Transportation and meal costs can also be shared.
[How to properly adjust]
Pattern 1: "Separation strategy based on health reasons"
"I'm still suffering from morning sickness, so I'll go home first just in case."
Pattern 2: "Role division strategy"
"We visit the shrine as a couple, and eat together with everyone."
Pattern 3: "Alternate Schedule Strategy"
"On the day of the dog, we will go as a couple, and later on we will visit the shrine with everyone to give thanks."
The important thing is to "show gratitude and make choices that are true to yourself."
If we share the same goal of "for the baby,"
I'm sure they will understand.
How to spend the day of the Dog and what not to do
How to eat, rest, and properly handle amulets after worship
"What should I do after visiting the shrine?" Ideal schedule for the day
"What should I do after visiting the shrine on the day of the dog?"
We will answer questions that many pregnant women are concerned about: how to spend the day.
[Recommended actions immediately after visiting the shrine]
First of all, make it a priority to take a break .
Take a seat and rest for 15-20 minutes in the shrine grounds or at a nearby cafe.
Visiting a shrine requires more physical strength than you might imagine.
It's especially easy to get tired during pregnancy, so don't push yourself too hard.
[How to properly handle amulets]
・Keep the amulet you received close to you at all times
- Not in the back of your bag, but somewhere visible
・Every day, say to yourself, "Please protect my baby."
・Be careful not to let others touch it
[About meals after worship]
"Do I have to eat something special?" → There's no need.
The important thing is to choose something that will nourish your baby .
・Easy-to-digest udon noodles or porridge
・Nutritionally balanced set meals
・Consume caffeine in moderation
How to spend the day
After returning home, it's best not to push yourself and to get some rest early.
Keep bath time to a shower.
Avoid staying up late and get enough sleep.
"Today is a special day where I express my gratitude to my baby and to God."
Cherish this sense of fulfillment and spend your time peacefully.
Experiences of senior moms on the Day of the Dog: "Was it effective?"
The honest opinions and real experiences of 50 people who had an easy birth
"Does visiting the shrine on the day of the dog really mean anything?" The honest opinions of experienced mothers
We conducted a questionnaire survey of 50 experienced mothers who have actually visited a shrine on the day of the dog.
We will introduce some real-life experiences.
[Moms who answered "I felt the effects": 74%]
"After worshipping, I felt calmer.
I've started to enjoy pregnancy life." (28 years old, first child)
"I got through the labor pains while holding on to the amulet.
It really gave me emotional support." (2nd person, age 32)
"After visiting the shrine with my husband, my husband's attitude changed as well.
They became more cooperative." (26 years old, first child)
["I couldn't go, but it was okay": 20% of moms]
"I couldn't go because of morning sickness,
I talked to my baby every day at home.
It was an easy birth." (30 years old, first birth)
"Visits were cancelled due to COVID-19. Instead, we received online prayers.
I was able to achieve peace of mind in the same way." (29 years old, 2nd person)
[Unexpected discovery: "Something more important than worship"]
A common thread that many mothers shared was,
"I have more time to think about my baby than to pray."
It was worth it.
"The Day of the Dog has given me the habit of talking to my stomach."
"My husband and I have more time to talk about the baby."
This may be the true effect of Dog Day.
👉Changes in pregnancy life after the Day of the Dog
💡Rediscover the true meaning of Dog Day
Will pregnancy life change dramatically after the Day of the Dog? Continuing the belly band method
How to create a calm mindset leading up to birth
"Once the Day of the Dog is over, can I just go about my day as normal?" The answer is...
Many pregnant women feel this way after visiting the shrine on the day of the dog.
We will answer the question, "What should I do from now on?"
The Day of the Dog is the starting point , not the goal.
[How to use a belly band continuously]
The belly band I received on Dog Day will be my precious companion until I give birth.
- When you put it on every morning: "Thank you for protecting my baby today."
・When your stomach is bloated: Gently stroke the belly band for comfort
・When taking it off at night, express your gratitude by saying, "Thank you for your hard work today."
[Changes in mental preparation before giving birth]
Around the day of the dog, many mothers realize
It's a shift in mood from anxiety to anticipation .
"Don't worry, you'll definitely meet a healthy baby."
Let's cherish and nurture this positive attitude.
[A time when bonds with dad deepen]
Visiting the shrine on the day of the dog will also change a father's attitude.
・Make time to talk to your stomach together
・Share the moment you feel the baby move
・Prepare for birth together
The most important mindset
From the day of the dog until the birth, please keep in mind
"Your baby is already growing up with lots of love from you."
That is what it means.
It doesn't have to be perfect.
However, if you have feelings for the little life inside your belly,
That's enough.
I wish you a wonderful maternity life and a safe delivery.
The important thing about visiting a shrine on the day of the dog is to "think of your baby"
Through this guide, you will learn the true meaning of visiting a shrine on the day of the dog,
Have you found a way to pray for an easy delivery that suits you?
Form and etiquette are important, but what is even more important is
"The feeling of loving the baby in your womb."
If you have that feeling, no matter what kind of Dog Day you celebrate,
It will surely be a wonderful prayer for safe delivery.
Wishing you and your baby a happy and healthy birth.
I'm rooting for you from the bottom of my heart.
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