Birth is a sacred practice that only women can experience and this miracle, in many cultures, has been supported by a woman’s tribe; her sisters, her friends, her female relatives, her circle. As the mystery of the baby forms in a woman’s womb, her sisters can help her to decipher the flow of emotion and the physical transformations that come with the many phases of her pregnancy. It is so valuable to be able to be a sacred support for a woman in her space of transitioning into motherhood and help her join with her highest female self, that of a creator of life.

Reflections
Make a list of your own tribe of women. Who do you trust to have in your circle to support you, not only through this pregnancy, but through motherhood? Spend some time with the women in your circle, and ask them the questions that you have in your heart about this very sacred rite of passage. Let them support and honor you through this process.

You may want to take time to connect with your own mother, and revisit the stories of how you were born. This action can help you can begin your own birthing process fresh and filled with your own her-story of how you came into the world through your female lineage. Remember that you are not alone and that you have other women who care for you and want you to have a beautiful experience. If you feel isolated and alone and do not feel as though you have a sisterhood to turn to, build one! You are a part of the collective circle of women and by birth-rite, you are entitled to be a part of this sacred tribe.

Ideas

• A simple idea is to make a lunch date with a special woman in your life and to bask in the energy of the divine female.
• Learn about how you came into the world. Talk to your own mother about her experience when you were born. If you are unable to do that, try talking with another relative that could have been there at the time, just to gain some interpersonal perspective.
• Invite several women over for a special circle where you are honored and showered as you step into the place of birthing. (see the adornment card for more specifics)
• Have a good old-fashioned sleepover, like the ones you used to have as a teenager. Invite some of your girls over for movies, popcorn, chocolate ice cream and cozy connection.
• Take the time to create your Birth Call Tree, a phone list of all those you want to know you are in labor, and decide whether or not you want any of your sisterhood tribe at the birth to support you. If you do not have any one you feel could do that, consider hiring a doula to be present with you at the birth.
• Book Recommendation: The Red Tent by Anita Diamant