Serving the Mother: Tending Glory
Grooming among women was traditionally a communal endeavor. Women have cared for other women's hygiene and beauty as far back as human remembrance extends. Washing, braiding, perfuming, tattooing, painting - all done within the context of tribe, formed a comforting ritual where women shared and extended their cultivation of fertility and health. Care for appearance is a rewarding way the Maiden can serve the Mother as she moves through pregnancy and postpartum. For modern pregnant women whose lives are divorced from deep sisterhood and community, things like hair care and the nuances of beauty are often lost to the urgency of daily work. The other day I spent time with my friend the Dreamer. Her motherhood is beautiful and feral, full of curiosity and affection. After a few fusses, her tiny daughter agreed to spend time with her father and uncle while I washed the Dreamer's hair. I slipped easily into flow state, rubbing shampoo into her scalp, and massaging in a hair mask. Sh
