A Garment To Emote
Oh the emotions of labor, they are so raw and beautiful. There really isn't anything like witnessing a birth, much like there isn’t anything like giving birth. I remember when I supported my first birthing client, I left knowing that it was the most humbling experience I had ever been a part of. No matter if someone is having a c-section or unmedicated, solo home birth, a laboring person shows what seems like the entire range of human emotion and physical ability; grief, joy, pain, confusion, fear, passion, love and so much more. They demand respect in the most admirable way and without knowing it. In shorter terms, all laboring people are freaking champions and I hope everyone understands that.
One of the things I wished I had told my first client before her birth was to bring a special cloth or garment with her that reminded her of her mother, sister, ancestors, best friend or anyone else that was/is a significant part of her life. This item could be a shawl, dress, pillowcase or really anything else that held warming memories and/or the person's scent. The garment is to cry into, wipe sweat with, wear, hold for comfort or anything else you want. The idea is that this garment will calm you as well as bring the energy of the person it belonged to into the birthing room. It is to remind you that you are capable and have permission to flow with the surges of labor and respond to them in whatever way feels right.
Labor and birth in western culture has become less and less about community and lineage and more about something to, “get through” and to keep private. Birth is not something that happens to you nor does it need to be so secretive, it is a human experience that you are a part of and that your ancestors are also a part of. Yes, it is sacred and it may feel better to not share all the intimacies of your birth world, but it is also not something to hide in the corner and not receive support with. So, even if you are going solo through your birth or choose to just have a couple people be there, you can bring a special garment with you so that you feel connected and supported by someone that loves you and knows your power.
