Choosing a Blessing Way instead of a baby shower is the new trend for celebrating expectant mothers . This ancient tradition, originating from the Navajo people, a Native American tribe, doesn't celebrate the baby's arrival, but rather the entry into the 7th month of pregnancy , marking the beginning of the final phase of the mother's pregnancy. The ceremony honors the expectant mother, supporting her serenely towards the birth of her baby. Blessing Way translates to "the path of blessing" in French.
While baby showers have gained popularity in recent years, celebrating the upcoming birth of a baby, the trend today is quite different. Future parents want a more cocooning and spiritual atmosphere to celebrate the mother's pregnancy, far from the effervescence and giant parties organized for gender reveals, for example. For the Blessing Way, which aims to be less materialistic, there's no need for an avalanche of gifts, nor for organizing games or a party, since here, the spiritual aspect is emphasized.
A more intimate event, organized by the expectant mother, her loved ones, a midwife, or a doula (a support person offering advice, help, and listening, and not affiliated with the medical profession), where relaxation and kindness are the priority , in order to provide support and strength in the final stretch before childbirth.
Relaxing while celebrating life and feeling loved.
The Blessing Way is a celebration of the present moment , an opportunity to (re)connect with oneself, with the unborn child, and with the transformations of the female body. During pregnancy, it is not always easy to find time for oneself, between preparations for childbirth, packing the maternity bag , and continuing with active life.
During this ceremony, the expectant mother will be able to take time to breathe and relieve the pressure , surrounded by her loved ones and family. Around her, women who have already experienced motherhood will be able to share their experiences and support her during these final weeks of pregnancy.
If the Blessing Way had to be summarized in a few words, it would be a ceremony that serves to give love to the woman who is about to give birth . Surrounded by benevolent people, present to celebrate the mother, without judgment or criticism, the expectant mother receives a dose of love which, according to Navajo tradition, should help her reconnect with her inner power, in order to use her feminine strength during the birth of her baby.
Since this ceremony is based on spirituality, it takes on a symbolic, almost biblical approach, where everything must be done to allow the mother to let go and enjoy what is happening to her.
Organizing your Blessing Way in a few steps
Generally, a Doula helps you organize your Blessing Way ceremony, but your best friend, your mom, or your sister can certainly accompany you to make this rite a success.
As the expectant mother, you should be at the heart of the ceremony , so your tastes should dictate your choices. The rule is that you experience the most fabulous ceremony possible and therefore avoid any frustrations or setbacks that could spoil this moment! If spiritual rites are not your favorite activity (and you don't want to emphasize them during your Blessing Way), focus on what you enjoy : organizing a brunch, a communal reading session, or a wellness afternoon!
To celebrate your Blessing Way, consider determining the location where you wish to organize it so that it meets your expectations. This could be at your home, a friend's house, in a park, or in a rented space. Whatever your choice, it's essential that you are in a space that feels like you and makes you feel good.
Even if you have the final say on what activities you do, find out about the many opportunities available to you . Their common goal should be the same: to support the expectant mother and create an even stronger bond with those around you.
Examples of activities to do during your ceremony:
- Singing or dancing
- Body Painting
- Spiritual rituals
- Relaxing treatments
- Creative activities
Rituals to capture the essence of the Blessing Way
- The candle ritual : Light as many candles as the number of months of pregnancy that have passed, one at a time. For each candle, the expectant mother must tell a short story that took place during the month that has passed.
- The binding ritual : Arranged in a circle, the guests tie each other's wrists together with a thread (any material will do). Be careful not to tie it too tight, as the thread must be retrieved later to symbolize the unity of the gathering around the pregnant woman. The thread is then cut so that everyone can take a piece with them.
- The pebble ritual : Guests write a word or phrase on a stone/pebble before giving it to the expectant mother. She can take them with her when she gives birth.
Blessing Way, Gender Reveal, Baby Shower – all these ceremonies that aim to celebrate mom and/or baby should above all remain an opportunity to spend a pleasant time with family or friends before the big change that is the arrival of a child.
