What is Matrescence? The biggest transition of a mother’s life, let’s talk about it - with Claire Tonti

Matrescence. You might have never heard of it or maybe you’ve seen it doing the rounds on social media lately. It’s actually the biggest transition any human will go through in life and it’s reserved specifically for mothers. So, if it’s so massive… why is it so unknown? We speak to Claire Tonti (instagram.com/clairetonti), matrescence activist, filmmaker, singer and songwriter, to learn more. We say it often, but this really is a must-listen for everyone, mother or not!

We discuss…

• What actually is matrescence? And why haven’t we heard about it until recently (if ever!?)

• The neurological and hormonal changes women experience when they become a mother

• When did it become a ‘badge of honour’ to try and not change when becoming a mum?

• How the fight for gender equality meant we had to dampen the importance of parenting

• The beauty and level-up that we go through as a result of matrescence

• How educating and empowering women at every stage of life benefits us all

• Leaning into creativity as a way to process these changes

• Embracing slowness and rest as a radical movement

• “The album of queefs” - you’d have to listen there to get it

• Do fathers experience something similar?

• + plenty more!

Links mentioned in this episode:

Amy Taylor-Kabbaz (instagram.com/amytaylorkabbaz) - matrescence activist

Oscar Serralach (droscarserrallach.com)’s research

Matrescence by Lucy Jones (penguin.com.au/books/matrescence-9781802061307)

Yoga nidra (insighttimer.com/meditation-topics/yoga_nidra) for deep rest

Nat Bartsch (instagram.com/natbartsch) - composer and music designed to help babies sleep

This episode is proudly sponsored by Bonds — check out their brand new Wondergrow range atbonds.com.au or in-store now!

Beyond the Bump is hosted by Jayde Couldwell (@londonxboston (instagram.com/londonxboston/?hl=en)) and Sophie Pearce (@svpearce (instagram.com/svpearce/?hl=en))

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