List of Services


Owner, Lyani Powers, has over completed 15+ years of Western Clinical Herbalist Study, Certified in Ayurvedic and Mexican Traditional Postpartum Care, and has inherited a wealth of folkloric herbal practices. She is also a full spectrum doula, and CLC.


 

  • Vaginal Steam Consultation

 

  • Pre-pregnancy Planning and Pregnancy Support

 

  • Postpartum Support

 

  • Certified Lactation Support

 

  • Closing of the Bones, A Cerrar las Caderas Ceremony

 

  • Benkung Belly Binding

 

  • Customized Herbal Workshops

Here at Modern Herbal we offer personal consults to assist you in reaching your optimum health, vitality and wellness.

Herbal consultations begin with an in-depth patient case history.  Then, together we will collaborate on the best plant-based solutions fit for you. Whether using teas, tinctures, or capsules we will guide you toward the herbs and foods best suited for your needs.

We structure our consultations to be informative, compassionate, and empowering. Herbal medicine can support a vast array of health concerns.  Here is a list of common conditions seen in herbal practice:

 

Colds, flus, allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Injuries ranging from cuts and bruises, to help with recovery from surgery and chronic pain.

Skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Digestive problems like heartburn, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, gas and bloating, and trouble digesting food.

Support for chronic health conditions such as seizures, MS, insulin resistance, IBS, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, migraines, and others.

Sleep issues like insomnia and poor sleep quality.

Women’s health issues such as PMS, menopause support, fertility awareness, PCOS, infertility, UTI’s and yeast infections.

Support while quitting addictions such as smoking and alcohol.

Overall immune support

Emotional support during difficult times

 

 

MH Rates:


Initial Consultation (1hr)- $75 

*complex conditions may require a follow up appointment to complete the intake.

First Follow Up Appointment (1 hr)- $55

General Appointment (.5hr)- $35

 Acute Condition Appointment (.25hr)- $15

*Acute consultations are available on a sliding scale price for basic formulations, i.e. colds/flus.

 

Note:

These consultations are available on a sliding scale basis.


Sliding scale systems are an honor system based on everyones individual income level. They are a tool for ensuring equal accessibility to health care, regardless of financial resources, and thus require active participation. Those who pay in full or higher on the scale help support those with less access to financial resources. No one is ever turned away for lack of funds.

 

Cost of Medicines


Modern Herbal Apothecary offers organic, wild-harvested and hand-crafted herbal remedies. The cost of herbal medicine varies as treatment plans are crafted for each person individually. Treatment may include teas, tinctures, capsules and creams along with handouts, nutritional and lifestyle recommendations.

One month of herbal medicine treatment can cost from $40-$150. The prices for hand-made herbal tinctures range from $15-$35 per week. Prices for loose teas, syrups, balms, creams, capsules and tablets vary.

Health Insurance does not typically cover herbal medicine, but some extended health packages may, talk to your provider for more information.

Shipping for hand-made herbal products is available; however, shipping fees will apply.



 

Some frequently asked questions:

 

What Is An Herbal Consultation?

 

We offer a few different options when it comes to working with our herbalists.

 

ON-FLOOR ADVICE

When you come into our store, we are happy to assist you in finding what you are looking for, and to offer guidance when it comes to herbs or pre-made products that can help your particular situation. These on-floor mini-consults are perfect for simple situations, things like colds, minor upset stomachs, trouble sleeping, scenarios like this that can be helped in 10 minutes or so. If its not overly complicated, we can also mix up a custom blend for what you have going on.

If you already have a blend of herbs you would like made up, we are happy to help you with that at any time.

If your issues are deeper, or you are on medications of any kind, we may suggest you schedule an appointment for a full consultation to really get to the root of your issues.

Herbs are powerful, and health is complicated, so in the best interest of your health and safety, we need to make sure we have enough time to devote to working on your issues before we can make recommendations for more complicated health situations.

 



CONSULTATIONS

A full consultation with an herbalist is for people seeking to do deeper work on their health and truly work to achieve long-lasting  changes in their life. You must be willing and interested in making changes to your diet and lifestyle, and not just be looking for herbs to be a “fix” to your problems, but to act as allies in the bigger picture.

They are an on-going relationship between you and your practitioner, who will act as your guide as you navigate your own health journey; helping you to find the herbs and other healing modalities that best fit you and your health picture.

The initial consultation will be anywhere from an hour to two hours, during which time we will go in-depth into your health history so that we can gain a clear picture of where you are in your health journey. We will discuss the goals you wish to achieve in terms of your health, and develop a plan on how to reach them.


You will always leave the consult with some kind of recommendation, whether it is lifestyle, herbal, nutritional, or a combination of the three. Many times you will leave with a customized herbal formula and/or nutritional supplements that are right for your situation.


The follow-up consultations are usually shorter, but this depends on the severity of your issues and your own personal needs.

True health is not a one-time fix.  It is something that must be worked on, especially when you are trying to change life-long habits. Because of this, we like to see our clients several times so that we can make sure you are staying on the path you chart for yourself.

There is no exact science to this method of healing, it all depends on you and how much you are willing to work on your own healing.  Herbal remedies are extremely effective and naturally ease your body into a state of total holistic health and wellness, but they are not stand-alone fixes for chronic health issues.

 

 

OUR SCOPE OF PRACTICE

We are not licensed health practitioners. Which means that if at any point in time during our consult I feel that what you have going on is beyond our ability to help you, or if they see any red flag warnings of deeper or more serious health issues, we may refer you to seek help with alternate providers, including the possibility of us suggesting you go to an urgent care center.

We do this only out of concern for your health and safety.

Our goal is to be your guide through the world of natural health, to help you navigate the realm of herbs and alternative healing modalities, and offer you a way to find your own path to health.


How will I know if an herb will work for me?

Herbal medicine is an art, not just a science. No one can predict which herb will work best for every individual in all situations. This can only come with educated self-experimentation and experience or by seeking the assistance of those who are knowledgeable in clinical herbal medicine. The simpler the condition, the easier it is to find a solution. The more complicated the condition, the greater the need there is to seek expert advice.

 

How long does it take for herbs to be effective?

The success of herbal treatment always depends upon a variety of factors including how long the condition has existed, the severity of the condition, the dosage and mode of administration of the herb(s) and how diligently treatment plans are followed. It can be as short as 60 seconds when using a spoonful of herbal bitters for gas and bloating after a heavy meal; 20 minutes when soaking in a bath with rosemary tea for a headache; days when using tonics to build energy; or months to correct long-standing gynecological imbalances. Difficult chronic conditions can often take years to reverse.

 

How safe are herbs?

It depends on the herbs. Most herbs sold as dietary supplements are very safe. When used appropriately, the majority of herbs used by practitioners have no adverse side effects. A review of the traditional and scientific literature worldwide demonstrates that serious side effects from the use of herbal medicines are rare. Based on published reports, side effects or toxic reactions associated with herbal medicines in any form are rare. In fact, of all classes of substances reported to cause toxicities of sufficient magnitude to be reported in the United States, plants are the least problematic.”

- Norman Farnsworth (Professor Norman R. Farnsworth, renowned pharmacognosist, internationally respected medicinal plant researcher and founder of the NAPRALERT database)

 

 

How does an herbalist practice?

 

Visits to an herbalist begin with a consultation about your past and current health history, your dietary and lifestyle practices, or other factors related to your health issue. The herbalist, with your involvement, should develop an integrated herbal program that addresses your specific health needs and concerns. You will be treated as a whole person, not as a disease.

 

Are there different approaches to using herbs?

Various herbal traditions have developed worldwide. In the West there are a number of different traditions which include folkloric herbal practices, clinical western herbal medicine, naturopathic medicine, practitioners of Ayurveda or Chinese medicine and numerous Native American herbal traditions. Some practitioners use highly developed systems of diagnosis and treatment while others base their treatments on individual knowledge and experience. Every person must find the herbal practitioner that is most appropriate for them.

 

 

Are there different types of herbalists?

 

Traditional Western or Community Herbalists base their work on traditional folk medicine or indications of historical uses of herbs and modern scientific information. Backgrounds may include folk, Native American, eclectic, wise woman, earth-centered or other traditions. They may be trained through traditional or non-traditional methods such as apprenticeships, schools or self-study. Medical or Clinical Herbalists are present in the United States and in most of the nations in the European Union. Professional education is offered in the USA and throughout Europe in a variety of formats. Most programs cover the traditional uses of herbs, the basic medical sciences of biochemistry, nutrition, and anatomy as well as diagnosis and prescription. The most common titles given to medical herbalists from the Western world include: RH (AHG), Registered Herbalist, American Herbalists Guild; MCPP Member, College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy; FNIMH Fellow, National Institute of Medical Herbalists; MNIMH Member, National Institute of Medical Herbalists; FNHAA Fellow, National Herbalists Association of Australia.

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the traditional medicine system of China, is the second-largest medical system in the world after Western medicine. TCM doctors go through extensive training in theory, practice, herbal therapy and acupuncture.

 

Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine, (Ayurveda), the traditional medical system of India and Nepal, is the third largest herbal medicine system in the world today. Ayurvedic doctors treat more than 80 percent of the people on the Indian subcontinent and go through extensive training that can last as long as 12 years. Some use the title M.D. (Ayur.) when they come to English speaking countries, while those who have passed the accreditation process of the American Ayurvedic Association are given the title D. Av. Diplomate in Ayurvedic Health Sciences.

 

 

How can herbs and herbal medicine help me?

 

Herbs can offer you a wide range of safe and effective therapeutic agents that you can use as an integral part of your own health care program. Or for the symptomatic relief of minor ailments.

 

They can be used in three essential ways:

to prevent disease

to treat disease

to maximize ones health potential.

 

 

Common Complaints Seen in an Herbalist Practice:

 

Acute Illness (Colds and flus)

Adrenal Fatigue

Andropause

Anxiety

Cardiovascular Health

Cervical Dysplasia

Chronic Diseases

Crohns Disease

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Depression

Diabetes

Family Planning

Fertility Enhancement

Fibrocystic Breast Disease

Fibromyalgia

Food Allergies

High Blood Pressure

Holistic Postpartum Care

Holistic Pregnancy Consulting

Hormone Imbalance for Men and Women

Inflammatory Bowel Conditions

Insomnia

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Menopause

Menstrual Irregularities

Mental/Emotional Imbalances

Migraines and Headaches

Mood Instability

Pain, Acute & Chronic

PCOS

Pediatric Health

Peri-menopause

PMS

Post-Partum Depression

Seasonal Allergies

Skin Disorders (Acne, Eczema, and Dermatitis)

Thyroid Imbalance

Uterine Fibroids

Vaginitis


 

BOOKING A CONSULTATION


Appointments are typically available on Thursdays; however, other days may be accommodated.

 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

What is an Apothecary?

apothecary (n.)

The five-syllable word, apothecary, entered English in the 14th century. It derives from the Latin apothēca, "storehouse.", from Late Latin apothecarius “storekeeper,” from Greek apotheke “barn, storehouse,” literally meaning  a place where things are put away,” from apo “away” (see apo-) + theke “receptacle). It became a title for a person who was skilled in preparing medicines, a shopkeeper,” especially pharmacist; one who stores, compounds, and sells medicaments,” from Old French apotecaire (13c., Modern French apothicaire)

 

Origins

The old apothecary is a common ancestor to our modern day hospitals, pharmacies, liquor and tobacco stores.  They provided advice and treatments to the public and also carried the ingredients to prepare the remedy. 

 

Evidence of apothecaries has been recorded as early as 2000 BCE in China and in Egypt. As early as 1500 BCE there are recordings of over 800 formulations of natural medicines and their dosages.

 

What is a modern day apothecary?

At Modern Herbal apothecary we embrace modern advancements and research and combine it with traditional wisdom.  Herbalists and natural wellness practitioners have been mixing up herbal medicines and beauty products for centuries—though for the past 100 years or so, doctors and pharmacists have taken over that role. Traditional apothecaries, however, never disappeared entirely. And today, their age-old practices are becoming more mainstream.  Walgreens may be your de facto “apothecary” of the moment—but that may be changing. Or rather, it may be changing back.

 

 

 

What is an herb?

 

Medicinally, an herb is any plant or plant part (root, bark, leaves, seeds, or flowers) used for its therapeutic value. That value can be  used as flavoring, food, medicine, or perfume.

 

What is herbal medicine?

Herbal medicine is the art and science of using herbs for promoting health and preventing and treating illness. It has persisted as the worlds primary form of medicine since the beginning of time, with a written history more than 5000 years old. While the use of herbs in America has been overshadowed by dependence on modern medications the last 100 years, 75% of the worlds population still rely primarily upon traditional healing practices, most of which is herbal medicine. Many conventional drugs originate from plant sources: a century ago, most of the few effective drugs were plant-based. Examples include aspirin (from willow bark), digoxin (from foxglove), quinine (from cinchona bark), and morphine (from the opium poppy). The development of drugs from plants continues, with drug companies engaged in large-scale pharmacologic screening of herbs.

 

Herbal medicine (also known as herbalism) is the study of pharmacognosy and the use of medicinal plants. ... Herbal medicine is also called phytomedicine or phytotherapy.  The use of plants for healing purposes predates recorded history and forms the origin of much of modern medicine. How are herbs different from pharmaceuticals?

Most pharmaceutical drugs are single chemical entities that are highly refined and purified and are often synthesized. In 1987 about 85% of modern drugs were originally derived from plants. Currently, only about 15% of drugs are derived from plants. In contrast, herbal medicines are prepared from living or dried plants and contain hundreds to thousands of interrelated compounds. Science is beginning to demonstrate that the safety and effectiveness of herbs is often related to the synergy of its many constituents.

 

How is herbal medicine different from conventional medicine?

The primary focus of the herbalist is to treat people as individuals irrespective of the disease or condition they have and to stimulate their innate healing power through the use of such interventions as herbs, diet, and lifestyle. The primary focus of conventional physicians is to attack diseases using strong chemicals that are difficult for the body to process, or through the removal of organs. Not only does this ignore the unique makeup of the individual, but many patients under conventional care suffer from side effects that are as bad as the condition being treated. The philosophical difference between herbalists and conventional physicians has profound significance.

 

What is an herbalist?

 

Herbalists are people who dedicate their lives to working with medicinal plants. They include native healers, scientists, naturopaths, holistic medical doctors, researchers, writers, herbal pharmacists, medicine makers, wildcrafters, harvesters and herbal farmers to name a few. While herbalists are quite varied, the common love and respect for life, especially the relationship between plants and humans, unites them. Persons specializing in the therapeutic use of plants may be medical herbalists, traditional herbalists, acupuncturists, midwives, naturopathic physicians, or even ones own grandmother.

  

 

  1. Sacral Steam Consultant

Yoni steams gather people in a space they can feel taken care of, nourished, and transported out of the stress and demands of our daily lives. Sessions transport you to a soothing atmosphere. You will be wearing Yoni gowns and seated on Yoni chairs. Guests can expect to be given a confidential form that is to be filled out letting us know your specific needs. You will then change into a gown and your customized blend will be created and added to a pot of mildly steamed water. During your sacral steaming, you will go through a gentle process involving sitting on special sacral chairs that have an opening to let the steam through. Vaginal steaming is an ancient practice that directly delivers nutrition to the womb matrix.  

For some, V-steaming can cause increased vaginal lubrication and enhanced sexual pleasure. This can happen during or shortly after the steam and is caused by heat penetrating into vaginal muscles and tissues which helps to remove impurities, and harmful toxins. Some may experience a significant difference in sensitivity and tightness following a V Steam, which may result in heightened sexual pleasure. It is also natural for some to experience a possible change in vaginal discharge (color/odor/texture). Since steaming helps to draw out toxins from the uterus, clear cellular debris, and tissue overgrowth, a change in discharge is normal and may take up to two weeks to dissipate. This is a sign that bacterial mucus living in the uterus is now making its way out of the body. Light cramping may also be experienced as the body is releasing toxins and naturally debrided residue to return to the body’s natural homeostasis. Some may experience mild skin irritation, especially if there is bad bacteria, yeast or an infection present. As this mucus is released temporary itchiness or discomfort may occur. It is recommended that the external vaginal area is kept very clean and dry, to prevent bacterial microbes from multiplying. Also, consider wearing loose fitting clothing and 100% cotton underwear in these cases. Some may experience the urge to dispel wind for a short while, which occurs due to the steam resolving bloating and excess water retention. Some may experience induced menses. Dark spotting may indicate that the uterus is releasing old menstrual residue. Light pinkish, red spotting may indicate that the steam has promoted blood flow and the uterus is resetting itself for a healthy natural cycle which is important for women with irregular menstrual periods, or dysmenorrhea. Some may be more susceptible to pregnancy due to the steam’s abilities to promote a healthy uterus by releasing pathogens and any blockages which in turn, create a good environment for successful implantation.

Excess and irregular mucus can cause an itchy or inflamed vagina, vulva, cervix and uterus, especially when bad bacteria is present in the area. As these impurities leave the body, it may be uncomfortable, so consider perineal rinsing and sitz baths daily post V-steaming. It is also helpful to eat and drink items that are warm, use heating pads, rest, take hot showers, herbal bath soaks, use organic cotton pads or menstrual cups, stretch and exercise to aid post steam.

  1. Pre-Pregnancy Doula 

A holistic fertility doula offers guidance for general womb care, preconception preparation, and fertility health by providing information, education, recommendations, natural and holistic remedies, emotional support and nutritional suggestions. This type of fertility coaching takes a holistic approach to making lifestyle changes to increase fertility. Throughout the experience, mothers will learn to track their cycle and create everyday rituals to be more in tune with the natural ebb and flow of hormones. Meditation, breathing  techniques and journal prompts to reduce stress, increase pleasure, and clear mental and emotional blockages in the minds body and spirit. Coaching also includes nutritional support like food and herbal supplement suggestions. Therapies can also be beneficial. The most sought after therapy is Sacral Steaming where an herbal tea blend that employs steam into the porous tissue of the vulva to rejuvenate and bring circulation into the reproductive system. If you are choosing to go through IVF or IUI, fertility coaching can help support you in finding and gaining clarity around all of your fertility options, navigating the healthcare system, and to hold space to process heavy emotions, big decisions and all fertility outcomes. Fertility doula training has aided in learning how to access the body in the areas of nutrition, stress factors, sex, ovulation, decongesting the womb, working & healing through uterine (womb) trauma, and herbs to increase fertility.


4.Postpartum Support

The postpartum period is a time of transition for a birthing person, and their body’s. A postpartum doula provides non-medical support during days and weeks after delivery. Postpartum doulas offer infant care, emotional, physical, and informational support for mothers and her family. The role of a postpartum doula has been described as “mothering the mother.” What a doula does for a mom differs from person to person, but they generally give support and information as well as tips and tricks for a parent's new responsibilities. Examples of doula services may include light house work, making meals, promoting self-care, helping siblings adjust, advocating for the mother, providing evidence based information, and providing support for the baby and mom. Doulas do not provide medical advice, care, or speak about any medical matters. Only information, resources, and support are provided by doulas. 

Most doulas complete training and certification programs before practicing. Programs can be done online or through self-study, however there’s usually some type of in-person training involved. Other requirements include required reading, becoming CPR certified, and finishing training in a reasonable amount of time. Doulas also continue education to keep their skills and knowledge fresh.

  1. Lactation Support

Breastfeeding can be difficult and lactation consultants can offer support during this stressful time by answering questions, giving advice, and helping with breastfeeding problems. Lactation consultants help mothers find an effective way to breastfeed. Lactation consultants are trained professionals that help parents and their babies overcome challenges with breastfeeding. Sometimes, having a lactation consultant if feeding issues occur can be helpful. Finding a lactation consultant that you are comfortable with and meets your needs can help ensure that mom and baby have a good breastfeeding outcome. Lactation consultants can also serve emotional support for parents who may be struggling. They also help with issues like poor milk supply, breast pain, sore nipples, trouble latching, finding a comfortable nursing position, refusal to feed, poor infant weight gain, falling asleep at the breast, problems pumping breast milk, and engorgement. Lactation consultants may be seen throughout pregnancy, after delivery, and while the baby is breastfeeding.

Prenatal breastfeeding classes led by lactation consultants are recommended for those that wish to breastfeed in order to help build confidence and gain knowledge about what to expect after birth. A prenatal breastfeeding class should go over how to breastfeed, what to expect in the hospital, what to expect at home, how to tell if your baby is getting enough breast milk, how to maintain a healthy breast milk supply, how to avoid common breastfeeding problems, when to seek help, breastfeeding and returning to work or school, feeding a baby solid foods, breastmilk storage, and weaning. 

A lactation consultant may or may not be seen while you're in the hospital. It depends on your situation and the hospital. Some are automatically seen by a consultant during their stay, while others have to request a visit. If lactation visits are not part of the daily routine of your hospital, nurses can request one for you. You also have the option to hire a private lactation consultant to come visit with you during your hospital stay. If your hospital does not have a lactation staff and you are not in a position to hire one, labor and delivery nurses can also be helpful in assisting with the early days of breastfeeding. After leaving the hospital, many may seek the help of a lactation consultant to ensure that they are on the right track while breastfeeding. A lactation consultant can determine if any adjustments are needed and help address any concerns. Problems can occur at any time during breastfeeding, which is why it's important to have support when questions or breastfeeding issues come up, and lactation consultants are the ideal person to call in these cases.

During your initial meeting, a lactation consultant will ask for information about you and your baby's health, as well as your pregnancy and delivery. They will want to know your baby's birth weight, any changes in weight since then, and your family health history. They will want to know how the baby has been breastfeeding, how many wet diapers your baby is having each day, information about your baby's bowel movements, and any specific concerns that you have. Clinically, the lactation consultant will observe your baby's appearance and behavior, examine your breasts and nipples, watch your baby as they're breastfeeding and adjust your breastfeeding position if need be, check whether or not the baby is latching on, sucking, swallowing, and breathing properly, correct any breastfeeding problems that are present, give you written instructions or protocols to follow, explain how to get in touch with them for additional help or questions, give you information about local breastfeeding support groups.The lactation consultant should: consult with you in private, give you a positive feeling about the situation, be empathetic, and tell you exactly what she is doing with every part of the examination. Keep in mind you may need to interview several consultants before deciding who is the best fit for you. Finding a lactation consultant with IBCLC or CLC credentials can help ensure that you receive a high-quality standard of care. Online review, recommendations from other parents, doctors, or the hospital can be helpful as well when seeking a lactation consultant.

A lactation consultant may be seen if there is any nipple or breast pain – breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt, although a little soreness and discomfort early on may be normal, engorgement, sore nipples that are not improving, redness, pain or swelling in the breasts, anxiety about breastfeeding or if the baby is experiencing:inadequate diapers, jaundice, inadequate weight gain, squirms, fusses or cries at breast, clicking sounds, hiccups or excessive spit up or vomiting, long feeds (45 minutes or longer) and/or frequent feeds (every hour or less) for more than just cluster feeding periods at specific times of day, short feeds (5 minutes or less), no interest in nursing for long periods of time, incredibly sleepy and won’t wake for feedings or stay awake during feedings, trouble latching. Breastfeeding is something that the mother and baby will learn together and if as a mother, you feel something isn’t right, it is important to seek help from a lactation to quickly resolve issues.


6. Closing of the Hips


I offer a "Closing of the Bones" ceremony to acknowledge the immense shifts a birthing person goes through during pregnancy and childbirth.   Physically, it helps to gently guide the bones back into place, helps pelvic organs shift, and stimulates blood flow. Energetically it serves to assist in bringing spirit back into the birthing person’s body.

MH CLOSING CEREMONY INCLUDES:

  • sessions last about 2hrs
  • starts with Birth Story Listening. I share a soothing herbal tea or atole during the story. 
  • followed by womb wellness touch with the application of herbal oils and the use of the rebozo. 
  • then it is time for the closing using  a rebozo to apply a tightening pressure from  your toe to head symbolically cocooning the body
  • the ceremony can take place in the client's home. The client only needs some loose clothing and an open heart.

****I also offer herbal slap baths and steaming for additional postpartum care during the ceremony if requested. ****


Cost:  $150 



The closing the bones ceremony is one used all over the world to help heal the body. The hips are a known area of the body where unresolved emotions and trauma are held, causing blockages of energy channels. By closing the bones emotions can be released. The ceremony is commonly used on women after they have given birth, however it can be used on anyone that has gone through or is going through a life changing experience. This ceremony is deeply healing and can be done at any point in life. It is a spiritual ritual that provides physical benefits by realigning the muscles and bones which relaxes and releases tension from the body. When done after birth, the ceremony helps one process thoughts, feelings, and emotions needed to bring about closure and have the strength to move forward. 


In traditional Mexican cultures, the 40 days after giving birth is when the Bone Closing ritual is typically performed, but it can be performed even many years after the birth itself with the same beneficial results. During the ceremony, a traditional shawl called a “Manta” or a “Rebozo”, is used to rock the hips, followed by a complex abdominal and pelvic girdle massage using a warming oil, and then finished by tightly wrapping the cloth around the hips like a cacoon. When used after birth, the Closing of the Bones ceremony acknowledges the changes a woman has undergone in pregnancy and childbirth and assists in bringing her spirit back into her own body. Physically, it guides a woman's bones back into place, helps her pelvic organs shift and her uterus to shrink back down, and stimulates blood flow.

 

7.  Benkung Belly Binding
Bengkung belly binding is the art of wrapping a postpartum woman's belly for physical support and to help hasten the recovery process after childbirth.  This belly binding technique uses a long strip of cloth to wrap around the abdomen from the hips to the ribcage. Women are traditionally wrapped as soon after birth as possible, ideally on day five. After a cesarean birth, women should wait at least 6 weeks until the incision is mostly healed before they are wrapped. Wraps are worn daily for 10-12 hours a day for 40 days or longer as needed. Often women who use a belly bind after birth return to their own pre-pregnancy size in 6-8 weeks. The Bengkung belly binding technique is rooted in Malaysian culture however various countries and cultures around the world use a form of belly binding to help support the healing process. The wraps in this method are made from 100% cotton muslin fabric and conform to adjust to the figures as the body returns to its nearly pre-pregnancy shape.

Benefits of Belly Binding include, postural support for the torso and organs as they return to pre-pregnancy position, supports and assists abdominal wall healing, diastasis recti recovery, supports the bodies natural spine, posture realignment post birth, constant pressure heals the torso and abdominal hastens by reducing water, fat, and air in the tissue and cells, stabilizes loose ligaments, prevents and relieves lower back aches and strains, prevents slouching while feeding or holding your child. When you learn to wrap yourself, you are practicing self-care and self-help which can aid in your emotional and mental well being in the early weeks of postpartum recovery.

Partners or family members can also be taught to bind you as well so binding can be done daily at home.It is ideal to wrap the belly bind over your clothes, so it is recommended to wear comfortable, form fitting clothes without buttons or zippers and a shirt that is appropriate for nursing.