Reclaiming traditional methods of healing our reproductive system, both physically and emotionally, is an integral part of reproductive justice. This concept encompasses not only female bodily autonomy and reproductive rights but also the right to access age-old knowledge passed down by our ancestors for the purpose of healing, well-being, and flourishing as women actively engaged in our reproductive health.
To me, reproductive justice involves not just the right to bodily and reproductive autonomy, but also the revival and application of ancestral wisdom related to womb health as self-care. In a society that devalues women's bodies, voices, intuition, and their treatment in healthcare, women are empowered when equipped with traditional knowledge to heal themselves, actively participate in their healthcare, tap into their power, and advocate for themselves in medical settings. This underscores the significance of places like Rebirth in promoting women's health and empowerment.
As a certified massage therapist, herbalist, and Sobadora, I specialize in traditional Mexican indigenous bodywork, specifically in womb massage. Sobadas, which are therapeutic practices aimed at achieving optimal health, differ significantly from the Western approach to massage, particularly in their emphasis on addressing internal organs including the uterus. Through a holistic approach encompassing herbs, platicas, bodywork, and traditional techniques, Sobadoras like myself treat individuals comprehensively—mind, body, and spirit. The specific bodywork, techniques, and herbs employed by Sobadoras vary depending on their region and healing lineage. Sobadas are rooted in a teacher/student lifelong apprenticeship, with my own journey starting at a young age learning from my Great Aunt, an energy healer, and later gaining certification in massage and herbal studies. My experiences in Mexico learning from Sobadores and a midwife have enriched my practice, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and growth.
My diverse clientele, including Chicanas, Filipino Americans, immigrants from Somalia, Ethiopia, and the Middle East, seek to reconnect with their traditional healing practices.
This demographic is underserved and experiences higher rates of maternal/ infant mortality, abuse, and medical mistreatment.
These individuals, spanning from young girls navigating their first period to older women post-menopause, come to us to learn about uterine care and healing, even post-hysterectomy. Many clients, including those who have experienced trauma such as sexual abuse or verbal mistreatment while giving birth, leave feeling empowered and knowledgeable about caring for their reproductive system. Reproductive justice, in my view, extends beyond mere reproductive rights to encompass holistic approaches to women's health and well-being.
Cultural traditions such as Sobada de matriz (womb massage), vaginal steaming, and faja use are deeply rooted in Mexican indigenous healing practices, focusing on warming and centering the uterus to promote circulation and vitality. These traditions, which have been passed down through generations, continue to be relevant in modern times. Vaginal steaming, for instance, aids in warming the womb and enhancing pelvic circulation, while also incorporating the therapeutic benefits of herbal remedies. By engaging in energetic womb healing practices like vaginal steaming and self-womb massage, women can nurture and heal their internal organs. The cultural traditions within my practice emphasize the importance of protecting the body from cold and promoting optimal circulation, countering the negative impacts of sedentary lifestyles common in Western culture.
For me, reproductive justice means more than just having the right to bodily and reproductive autonomy. It also involves reclaiming and applying the ancestral wisdom of womb health and self-care, which was more common before colonization. This is why this work of especially empowering for women of Mexican decent, as it reconnects us with our people's own medicine. Empowering women in a patriarchal society involves educating them with traditional knowledge to enable them to heal themselves, actively participate in their health care, connect with their inner strength, and confidently express themselves, especially in medical settings. This is why establishments like Rebirth play a crucial role.
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