Closing of the Bones Ceremony: Embracing the Postpartum Journey
Bringing a baby into the world is a transformative experience—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Yet, as modern culture rushes new mothers to “bounce back,” many of the ancient traditions that once held them in a sacred space of healing have been lost. Two profound postpartum practices that deserve renewed recognition are swaddling—not just for babies, but for mothers—and the Closing of the Bones ceremony, a ritualistic practice that honors a mother’s journey through birth and into postpartum.
Swaddling the Mother: The Power of Containment & Warmth
Swaddling is often associated with newborns, providing them with security and warmth as they transition from the womb into the world. However, in traditional cultures, mothers are also swaddled after birth. Using a technique of gentle wrapping with warm fabrics, the mother’s body is contained, calmed, and supported, mirroring the comfort and safety of the womb itself.
In Ayurvedic and many indigenous traditions, postpartum is seen as a time when the mother is most vulnerable—open physically, emotionally, and energetically. Swaddling helps her feel held, reducing excess vata (the air and ether elements that dominate postpartum, often causing feelings of anxiety, depletion, and coldness). The physical wrapping also provides relief to the muscles, joints, and organs that have worked tirelessly throughout pregnancy and birth.
Swaddling can be done with simple techniques at home using soft cotton sheets, muslin, or woolen wraps, or with the guidance of a postpartum doula trained in this sacred practice.
Closing of the Bones: Honoring Birth as a Rite of Passage
The Closing of the Bones is a postpartum healing ritual found in many cultures, including Mexican, Ecuadorian, Moroccan, and other indigenous traditions. It is a ceremonial practice designed to energetically and physically “close” the mother after the tremendous opening of pregnancy and birth.
During pregnancy and labor, the body expands—not just in the physical sense, but also emotionally and spiritually. In many ways, birth is a portal, a passage between worlds. Yet, in our modern rush to move on, the closing of this chapter is often overlooked. The Closing of the Bones ceremony is a way to bring completion, integration, and restoration. This practice is not only physical but deeply emotional. Many mothers feel a deep release of held emotions, whether from the birth experience, postpartum shifts, or the identity transformation that motherhood brings. It is a moment to be seen, nurtured, and honored.
Why These Practices Matter Today
In a world where postpartum care is often rushed or dismissed, reviving these traditions is an act of reclaiming our wisdom. Swaddling and Closing of the Bones are not just self-care practices; they are soul-care practices—reminders that a mother deserves the same love and attention she so freely gives to her child.
By embracing these rituals, we create a softer, more supported postpartum experience—one rooted in warmth, containment, and reverence for the incredible journey of birth. Whether through a personal practice or with the guidance of a postpartum doula, may every mother have the opportunity to feel held, seen, and honored.
I believe in reviving the lost traditions of postpartum care. If you’re a new mother seeking nourishment, warmth, and deep healing, explore our offerings of postpartum support, Ayurvedic healing foods, and sacred ceremonies.
I’m really thrilled to be offering Closing of the bones ceremony in Los Angeles and Oahu, Hawai’i. Book your free 15 minutes consultation to find out more details.
