Indigenous Mesoamerican Tradition

In the Indigenous Mesoamerican tradition, a 40 day period of rest after birth is practiced during which the new mother’s family cares for the home, the other children, and most importantly the mother. Traditionally, this time is seen as vital in the parent-baby bond and the overall wellness of the mother. During this time, the mother is susceptible to “aire” or air, as the body is open, both literally and energetically, after birth. As a protection and method of healing, the mother stays warm both by covering susceptible areas of the body and by consuming nourishing and warming foods.

Cerrado de las Caderas

Cerrado de las caderas (closing of the hips) is a ceremony that takes place at the end of the 40 day rest period to energetically bring to a close the body and spirit as it prepares to reemerge into the world as a new mother. This closing focuses on major energy points of the body such as the head, chest, abdomen, hips, knees, and feet with sacred cloths called Rebozos. Some people may experience a release or some may simply want to reflect on their birth and postpartum time. Many people report being able to rest well afterward.