In both situations, routines are dismissed and theres the possibility of chaos while venturing into the unknown.
And the reassurance that, much like my hair, I could hold it together for my babies.
What role do braids play in self-care for Black parents?
Black women do need help.
The practice of using braids as a means of self-care is nothing new.
And during slavery, historians believe that braids were used to relay messages to aid in escape.
This routine always provided a sense of calm.
Now, the repetitive nature of hair braiding can offer some reassurance while navigating motherhood as a Black woman.
Braids can offer a sense of security to moms, says Dr. Mbilishaka.
The protective style of braids reduces the need for excessive worry about keeping everything together.
For Black moms like me, low-maintenance, durable braids are something we can lean on.
Why are Black moms relying on hair care before asking for help?
All those factors may also prevent them from seeking help, says Sheffield-Abdullah.
That included twisting her own hair a few days before delivering her now 6-month-old daughter.
We compartmentalized all of our tasks, she says.
But physical enhancements are just on the surface.
Its traumatic to ask for help and be told no, says Abari.
And thats why hair care becomes a necessity in the Black birthing experience."
I was sitting for hours just nursing and pumping milk alone.
I didnt realize my health was deteriorating.
She developed postpartum depression and then required emergency surgery for blood clots resulting from her immobility.
Additionally, Black parents want to feel validated, celebrated and heard.
Our lived experience can be so isolating, says Sheffield-Abdullah.
Where and how can Black Moms find the support and community they need?
It was then that Abari realized she had more than braids for support.
It was heavy but enlightening, she said.
“The help you need is out there.
You just need to be open to it.
You never know where it will come from.
Sources
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