The meaning of body and movement within the emotional world of a new mother: a case study

Abstract

This article examines the roles of body and movement in the structuring of the mother’s perceptions of her relationship with her daughter and her inner world during the first postpartum year. Autoethnographic paradigm was used. The article depicts the process in which researcher-mother gathered movement materials using concepts of the Authentic Movement discipline; and writing materials gathered via associative and reflective writing. The focussing was given to internal factors, such as inner emotional dynamics of a mother that may affect motherhood experience. Materials were analysed using a qualitative method. The findings are described herein. The analysis of the materials reveals fundamental functions of the researcher-mother’s body: first, the described process aids in coping with stress and anxiety. Second, embodiment serves as a tool for forming a maternal caregiving style. Third, described process allows the experience of strengthening the mother–daughter bond. These findings are explained using various psychoanalytical theories and neurophysiological mechanisms.

Keywords:

• Motherhood experience
• postpartum period
• dance movement therapy
• Authentic Movement
• embodiment
• associative and reflective writing

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Yael Barkai and Einat Shuper Engelhard for reviewing the article and contributing by making comments that helped to refine and clarify my ideas. Yael Barkai and Einat Shuper Engelhard generously read the entire article and improved its content with their invaluable comments.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Julia Ayana Zaides

Julia Ayana Zaides, MA, DMT, Graduate of School of Creative Art Therapies, Haifa University. Currently studying EDT-psychotherapy on behalf of IEDTA organisation. Worked as a DMT with children and their parents, recently immigrated teenagers and adults. Works at youth village and conducts private practice. Started to delve into the experience of transition to motherhood since becoming a mother to her first child, in 2015. Conducting field research in this subject.