It wasn’t until about a week later that I was truly astounded about my steam. First of all, I was surprised by my period, which was unusual for me. Normally, I would experience dry uterine cramping for at least two days, signaling that my period was coming soon.

What convinced me, on a deeply visceral level, that there was something truly transformative about the steam I did a week ago was the stunning shift in my period. Instead of the usual brown streaks that typically marked the start of my cycle, my body greeted me with a flow of beautiful red blood—so full of vitality it felt like a celebration! I was moved to tears. I knew from then on that this simple and gentle practice would support me with what I needed. Over time I built a relationship and connection to this simple and gentle practice.

I found my way to steaming through my journey with plants and my path to motherhood. An ancestral remembering during a challenging time in my life. The transition from maiden to motherhood was jolting as much as it was joyous. My debilitating periods continued despite midwives saying they would even out post birth. Not for me! Breastfeeding and menstruating was depleting. My emotional and physical state was frustrating. I was offered birth control and antidepressants that I knew wouldn’t get to the root of my issues. I knew there had to be a more holistic, natural way to care for myself. One late midsummer night’s eve I got the inkling to try this steaming-after all, it was a postpartum healing practice that was done in the Philippines, where my maternal side is from. 

So, kneeling on my living room floor over herbs I had on hand, I experienced my first steam. The relaxing warmth, the smell of rose, nettles and red raspberry leaf, the quiet ancient feeling that stirred something deep within. It felt like reconnecting with a piece of forgotten wisdom. That night I slept soundly with my baby. 

I enjoy taking pleasure in the warmth, the herbs, a moment to pause, the sacred Intentionality and ritual, the opportunity to breathe deeply, and to reconnect with my body in a way that feels both empowering and healing. That is my love for steam.

I love how steaming bridges ancient wisdom with modern self-care, weaving me in a lineage of women who have worked with the plants in this way.

It wasn’t until I began making steaming a regular practice and eventually shared it with my mom and aunties that I discovered this beautiful thread woven through my lineage.

My great-grandmother in the Philippines also practiced steaming, setting it up for the women she helped through labor and birth. My own grandmother received a steam after my mother was born.

Steaming is deeply rooted in my womb continuum. It brings me so much joy to know that I get to share this practice!! 

I love that it is a sacred tool, offering us nurturing, support, and nourishment for our hormones, nervous systems, physical body, and spirit. 

For fertility and conception journeys, we invite you to Julia's beautiful offering of a six month container of support, Womb Alchemy.