“15 Hours after a Rebozo Ceremony. What is it? Why is it important?
Thank you Tere- Martinez, the doula / healer / mother / massage therapist who performed mine. I had to read more about it and why it is so imperative to postpartum recovery. I cannot recommend her enough!
‘Closing The Bones’ birth support massage-
If we did MRI scans of pregnant women we would see how the hips open during the pregnancy, becoming wider and wider, and that after the birth it is paramount to help close them back to their normal width, otherwise mothers suffer from pelvic instability many women suffering from hip issues in our society to the lack of closing the bones massages post birth) and leak energy.
In traditional cultures, the 40 days of the postnatal period represent a sacred time. In Ecuador, women are given this massage within hours of the birth, and receive it again at least 5 or 6 times during the first 40 days postpartum. The massage stimulates blood flow which in turn; cleans, renews, moves fluids (it may also help with milk supply/lochia), moves hormones, stimulates the immune system, and helps tone muscles and tissues. Our hips also support the weight of the spine and head and they are therefore the seat of unresolved emotions and trauma, which can be felt upon the hips as crystals, that need to be popped and released during the massage.
Whether you are a new mom or not so new mother, I experienced and witnessed how powerful this ritual can be in releasing emotions in a safe way, even many years after the birth itself.
15 hours since the Rebozo, I notice a physical relaxation and a more peaceful mindset. I trust my body, its capacities, life, and especially my capacity to welcome life. Tere- Martinez is magical. Her session wasn’t on a clock. She allowed herself to be open to what I needed and nurtured me accordingly. She gave me time to think about where I carried Cienna in my body and how I carry her now. Calling into the space how much my body went through and honoring it with releasing what no loner served it Such as the story of how tired I am and what I cannot do.
Tere- Martinez offered this rejuvenating service with the highest level of professional care with so much love. THIS is what is missing for postpartum mothers. We are desperate to feel cared for. You are a wonderful part of my journey now.
Deepest gratitude to my husband Shad Chancey for gifting me this experience.
Birth Comadres is a community of progressive and experienced doulas and offer beautiful services to support mothers. Please visit https://www.birthcomadres.com/postpartum
*They even help with:
Caring for baby while you shower
enjoy some self-care or nap
Light housecleaning
Meal Prep
Whatever you may need support with in the ‘4th trimester’.”