Expectant Perth mums go spiritual
Expectant mums are shunning traditional baby showers to get in touch with their spiritual side in a native American "motherhood" initiation ceremony.
The mother blessing, also called a blessingway, brings close friends and family together to celebrate and nurture the mother's impending birth.
Hugely popular in the US, the ceremony is taking off in Perth.
Balcatta mum-to-be Sabine Artemjev, 35, is among those embracing the trend and is about to host her first mother blessing.
"I thought it would suit my personality more than the traditional baby shower," she said.
"It sounds much more intimate with your closest family and friends, not just a party where you can lose the reason for it."
Rather than gifts and games, the ceremony involves intimate and spiritual activities including henna, necklace beading, writing positive wishes on river stones or bunting and relaxing massages.
New Eaton mother Michelle Stayt stumbled on the idea while looking for inspiration for a baby shower with a difference without presents and awkward games.
"I craved a meaningful gathering with all of the special women in my life," she said.
Ms Stayt and Ms Artemjev said they would recommend the ceremony to expectant mothers.
