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Why I use a faja & the medicine of belly binding
Firstly, what is Faja?
A Faja is a traditional belt or sash used in work, postpartum support, bleed support, postoperative body care, and ceremonial work. The Faja, comes from Colombia, Faja is the Spanish word for wrap.
What is the purpose of belly binding?
Belly binding is a practice used cross-culturally. The purpose of belly binding is to provide support to the abdomen, pelvis, and provide warmth to the lower danian (lower abdomen) and lower back where your kidneys, and Jing are stored. Belly binding also has many spiritual and emotionally supportive elements. I personally use my bind when I bleed for extra warmth, energetic and physical support, it feels quite protective and like being held in my release each month. I also wear a Faja when I facilitate Closing Ceremonies, sit in medicine ceremony or Temazcal.
Belly binding basics, why you may be called to partake in this practice:
Postpartum (Postpartum from any variation of birth, pregnancy release, loss, early birth, full term birth)
Warmth
Postural support
Support in keeping the legs closed to physiologically heal any tears
Lower back support
Heavy bleeds
Painful bleeds
Securing in your hot water bottle
Wear while doing birthwork, ceremonial work, postpartum cooking for energetic hygiene
Supporting circulation = support healing
Supporting the torso
Supports the organs in returning to their pre-pregnancy state
Different types of binds:
Faja - A thick cotton wrap, traditionally with plaits at each end.
Bengkung - From the East, a Malaysian Belly Bind which is a much longer wrap, at 13-15 metres, and tied in a specific way to provide great postural support and holding.
Linen/Cotton - The binds I’ve used, and often sew for my sisters, and clients are about 2.5-3m and in a 100% organic cotton fabric that feel light, yet strong enough to hold, and wrap around at least 1-2 times.
Tubby Grip - A more western/medical postoperative support band, super easy to use and accessible.
Where to purchase these binds:
I sell very basic, linen or 100% cotton Belly Binds, to purchase, DM, text or email me to enquire.
Fajas - Anatma Textiles
Bengkung - IBU Ayurveda
Tubby Grip - At your local Pharmacy
Pictures:
Sweetheart Bridget @bridget.marie.mcpeake rocking her 100% cotton Faja
Creative soul sister Yas @palermo_psychic wearing a Bengkung Bind
Me @danitaylor.birthwork wearing Cotton Fajas with my hot water bottle strapped in when I was bleeding <3