Remembering the Medicine: My Traditional Birth-work Journey with Sumi's Touch Immersion
I recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in a 9-day immersion with Sumi's Touch in Chicxulub, Mexico. This experience was nothing short of transformative, a deep reconnection with the ancient practices of traditional birthwork. It wasn’t just about learning techniques—it was about remembering, rediscovering, and honoring the medicine that has always been within us.
The Medicine of Traditional Birthwork: Many people may know the term "doula," but the role of a traditional birthworker holds a deeper, more intuitive meaning. This immersion reaffirmed for me that traditional birthwork is not just about a certification—it’s about the ancestral wisdom that we carry within. Our ancestors, our midwives, our healers—they were the doulas of their time, guiding women through birth and healing in community and tribe. We have forgotten this medicine, but it’s still within us, waiting to be remembered.
During these nine days, I was reminded of the sacred responsibility of holding space for others—but more importantly, of the necessity of first holding space for myself. Before we can care for others, we must ensure that we are tending to our own needs, filling our own cups, and nurturing our own well-being. This experience showed me that I wasn't taking care of myself as I should, and that has profound implications for the work I want to do for others.
The Power of Ritual and Community: One of the most powerful aspects of the immersion was the community that formed among us. We came together for rituals, journaling, and bodywork practices. We shared meals, stories, and experiences that connected us not just as individuals, but as sisters on this journey. We learned from each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities. Every activity was deeply tied to the sacredness of birth, to the Earth as the ultimate mother, and to the womb as the source of all life.
A key takeaway for me was this: to pour into others, we must pour into ourselves. We must ensure our cup is full and that we are nurturing our own bodies, minds, and spirits. This realization struck me deeply as I reflected on my habits and practices, and I realized I hadn’t been giving myself the care I needed.
Cenotes and Mezcal Ceremonies: Two experiences stood out to me the most during this immersion: our visit to a Cenote, and our participation in a Mezcal ceremony. A Cenote is a natural body of water, and for me, it felt like being immersed in Mother Earth’s womb. The waters were healing, cleansing, and brought about a profound sense of peace and renewal.
The Mezcal ceremony, on the other hand, was a sacred communion with other women, an experience that activated and balanced the divine feminine energy within me. It reminded me of the power of sisterhood and how vital it is to align with other women in ritual and shared intention.
Moving Forward with Traditional Birthwork: This immersion has deepened my call to serve women. I now feel more ready than ever to support women on their journeys through womb healing, sacred birthing, and traditional birthwork. I am excited to expand my offerings, guiding women as they prepare their bodies for conception, walk through pregnancy, and experience postpartum healing.
If you’re interested in learning more about traditional birthwork, womb healing, or preparing your body for motherhood, please feel free to reach out. I’m here to support you on your journey, and I’d love to discuss how we can work together.