Maternal mental health is a critical, yet often neglected, aspect of the motherhood journey. By raising awareness, breaking down stigmas, and fostering support networks, we can ensure that every mother receives the care and understanding she deserves. Together, let's prioritize maternal mental health and create a nurturing environment where all mothers can thrive.

Through mindfulness and meditation, we can build a community of supportive mothers who understand the highs and lows of parenthood. Because let's face it, we all know the chaos that ensues when you mix baby food, sleep deprivation, and a diaper emergency. Together, we can release the shame, embrace the humor, and enjoy the beautiful, messy, and transformative journey of becoming and being a mother.

Navigating the emotional journey after childbirth is a complex experience that many new mothers find challenging. There's often a misconception that new mothers should be overwhelmed with joy, making it essential to recognize and differentiate between the baby blues and postpartum depression.

What advice would you give to new parents who may be facing challenges during the postpartum period?

Try to educate yourself as much as possible months before the baby arrives. Create a village of supporters around you and create clear communication with these people about your wants and needs. Believe in your values as a family and trust your maternal/paternal instinct.

Nutrition Fasting During Ramadan: What Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women Need to Know

Ramadan is not only about fasting but also about spiritual reflection, increased prayer, and acts of charity. It is a time for Muslims to strengthen their faith, foster empathy for others, and practice self-discipline. Muslims around the world look forward to this sacred month as a time of spiritual renewal and community bonding, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Islam sees the human body as a trust given to each of us by God, which has a right over us and we are obligated to take care of it. Islam also encourages us to take up good actions only as much as we are able as the best deeds done are considered those done regularly even if few. In short, Islam encourages taking care of one’s body regularly in a sustainable way and this is considered a worship of God in Islam.

Fasting & Pregnancy
Although Islamic law exempts pregnant and breastfeeding women from fasting during Ramadan, many choose to do so. When you are used to fasting every year, and family or friends around you are all fasting, it's understandable to feel like you're missing out!

As we embark on the sacred journey of Ramadan, parents often find themselves faced with the challenge of maintaining a consistent nap schedule for their little ones. The delicate balance between spiritual observances, family gatherings, and the daily routine can sometimes disrupt the precious daytime sleep crucial for babies and toddlers.

One thing I never expected in my first pregnancy was for my daughter to be born prematurely. Of course I had heard about it before and I knew prematurity existed but that's just something that happens to other people...right? In my case, wrong.

My first child, my daughter Emilia-Rey, arrived very unexpectedly when I was 32+4 weeks pregnant. I wasn't prepared for this at all…

One thing you wish you knew before becoming a mum?

That life would change drastically after birth and that’s ok, change is good… and to trust my instinct a little more, and others’ opinions a little less. It’s also ok to ask for help in the way I needed it (accepting meals, letting trusted care givers help with the baby…)

Be patient, have faith in yourself, and trust your child. Allow yourself to cry whenever you need to, and don't hesitate to seek assistance. Your world will be shaken, and you'll face challenges like never before, but this journey will fill you with immense pride.

The postpartum period is a unique and transformative time when a new life enters the world and brings about significant changes.

As per Anna Roy, “Postpartum lasts three years”. She has her own definition of postpartum and she is trying to change things in France. We, at The ÔM Journey, agree with her.

Meet Clémentine, born at home in Abu Dhabi. An unexpected homebirth story in the UAE.

There is much information to gather while preparing to welcome your newborn and many things to buy and plan. When it comes to newborn sleep, there is some key information that every parent should know, it’s important to understand where your newborn is in terms of development and what this means for sleep so that you are mentally prepared and at the same time enjoying every moment with your baby.

That feeling when you go to take your daughter and she holds on tighter to the person she’s being held by and looks and moves away from you, nuzzling further into their shoulder and arms. Painful, it pulls at your heart.

“I can’t put it into words how amazing it felt to do it all by myself, to pull my baby girl out of the water and hold her in my arms for the first time. 

By addressing my fears and choosing a birth that was perfect for me I ensured a positive and empowering experience for Zoe's arrival into the world.”

The arrival of a new baby is a time filled with joy and change, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges, especially when cultural differences come into play.

Read below the story of a new mum living in Abu Dhabi. She is sharing with all of us what it's like to spend the first few weeks with her baby while living alongside her in-laws from a different culture.

Who said we can do it alone? Jodie speaks about the importance of community and shares her own story with us, from her first night at home after her daughter’s birth to the friendships she created with amazing women.

Maryline describes her fourth trimester with her first son, Leon. From happiness to challenging moments, she shares the truth about the beginning of her postpartum journey.

The 4th trimester is the first 3 months of a baby's life outside of the womb. During this time, babies are adjusting to their new environment and require lots of love and care, but it’s also a time for mothers to focus on their own postpartum recovery and well-being.