Matrescence Is Not One-and-Done: Motherhood as Transformation, Community, and Care

Becoming a mother is one of the most profound shifts we’ll make in our lifetime. In fact, it’s truly a transformation of self and one much deserving of its own terminology.

“Matrescence” is the physical, psychological, and emotional process of becoming a mother. 

And it isn’t a “one-and-done” becoming. Matresence is an ongoing transformation throughout the mothering journey - becoming a mother for the first time, transitioning from one to two (or more) children, and the ongoing phases of motherhood (& human-hood) as our children grow, as our bodies change, as our minds and hearts expand. This is all part of our Matrescence.

Having the opportunity to take a deeper dive into Matrescence and gaining words describe my own mothering experience has transformed my personal approach to supporting new mothers and mothers at all stages. 

I became a mom for the first time just over nine years ago. I got pregnant while pursuing my yoga teacher training and realized there was a lack of (read: zero) prenatal yoga classes available in my area. 

About six months after having Lily, I pursued prenatal/postpartum yoga training and birth doula training. I immersed myself in the world of new motherhood. I connected with birth workers of all kinds. I began teaching prenatal and mom & baby yoga and became a concierge of sorts with resources on lactation, doulas, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and more. 

Seven years ago I became a mom for the second time. I went through that pregnancy with an abundance of resources at my fingertips. 

And yet, both my baby and I suffered a traumatic delivery - one that resulted in a two week NICU stay for my baby with the best care possible (along extremely limited support or care for me). This experience has shaped the trajectory of my life.

One of the calling cards of Matrescence is “mothers need other mothers.” 

It took many years for me to become comfortable enough with the narrative of my experience to talk about it and build the community of support I so desperately needed. It would be my honor to do that with you as you explore and embrace your own unique Matricentric journey.

So it’s through a Matrescentric lens that I offer all of my mother-focused offerings, including both prenatal & postpartum yoga. I hope when the time is right within your own journey, you’ll join me.