Henna Pregnancy Body Art

Henna use during pregnancy is an ancient practice that can be soothing as well as decorative, and is believed to help bring about an easy birth & healthy child. In certain cultures it is used to protect (the designs themselves being protective) or bless the mother and child during labor.  The quiet of having henna applied can be very calming, as the paste is cooling and can help comfort hot skin as well as being a natural sun block. Henna brings something restful and joyous to the last trimester that can help women embrace and celebrate the transformation.

Pregant women looking for beautiful ways to honor their growing bodies, to do something that looks wonderful on a big, round belly that is full of life, are usually very excited about having henna art applied to their bellies...and hands, and shoulders, and backs. Henna body art during pregnancy can celebrate the unique shape of a full belly with expansive patterns. While having the henna applied the mother may fall into an almost meditative state, as she can be comfortably positioned will pillows, be still and relaxed, focus on her belly, on her pregnancy, and her new life, and express the work of art that she is.

 This can be done in private, or is a wonderful addition to a blessingway ceremony!

Designs usually last seven to ten days, depending on body chemistry, how long the paste was allowed to soak in, and location on the body. Henna always lasts longest on the hands and feet, and less on the torso where skin is thinner. It is very important to keep in mind that natural henna stains a reddish brown color and needs to soak on the skin four to eight hours. The color will be a light orange at first and darken to a richer shade over two days.