birthkeeper

On 10 May we will celebrate Mother’s Day – a day meant to shine a light on and express gratitude for the enormous and beautiful role that mothers – biological or otherwise – play in the wellbeing of us all. May is also a month dedicated to Maternal Mental Health and recognises International Midwives’ Day on the 5th, and International Nurses Day on the 12th. For me, what links these together is the notion of care – for others, our families, as well as care for ourselves. And the need and openness for each of us to both offer and receive care when required. Post-natal depression (PND) is real and prevalent, and it varies from woman to woman. The 9-12 months after birth are as critical for the health of both baby and mother as the period of pregnancy and birth. Support during this time is vital to enable a space where mother and baby can really connect and find themselves in their developing dance with one another. And strength for you as a mother does not only mean your ability and tenacity to do and be everything for your baby and your family, but it also means asking for – and accepting – help and holding when you need it. Now more than ever we need to remain steady and centered within ourselves, as women and as mothers. As the world has and will continue to change, we need to embrace the change and pivot ourselves to what and where we are needed. As mothers, we attend to so much. It is who we are. So start to acknowledge and celebrate yourself – you are doing an amazing job right now! There are so many things you’re required to complete, for work, child/ren, and partner to tend to, and […]