What is Matrescence?
It’s an often overlooked transition, from woman to mother. A powerful shift that changes how we see ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and our place in the world.
When our babies are born, so are we – up to the point of their birth, we as ‘mother’ have never existed before.
It’s like adolescence – think of the changes we go through during that time. The impact of changing hormones, the way our relationships change – the way we see other people and their part in our lives. How our relationships with our parents change when we’re teenagers – how have you felt your relationships are with your parents now? In particular, how do you see your mother now?
There might be silent struggles. The appearance of Mum Guilt. The nagging feeling that you’re never doing enough, you’re never ‘enough’. The impact of post-partum depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, numbness, sadness, or disconnection – not just the Baby Blues.
You’re not alone. You’re not imagining it. You’re becoming.
Matrescence can shape your identity, your emotions, and your sense of self. The importance of following your instinct during this time, and finding the new you. Seeing motherhood not as bouncing back but bouncing forward.
You have never been this person before – it’s ok if you’re different to how you used to be. Your priorities are different. Your hormones are different – the drop in estrogen after birth is the biggest hormone drop you’ll ever experience.
What’s important during this raw transition is the right support. Family, friends, your partners. Making sure they recognise the importance and the significance of this massive transition that you’re going through.
Finding your Mum Tribe – other women also transitioning, together with you, so that you don’t feel alone. You might lose friends or even family at this stage, as insecure people around you don’t have the capacity to embrace your changes, or understand the impact of your new life upon you.
Remember, friendships can last for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.