“Matrescence” is a term coined by anthropologist Dana Raphael and refers to the transformative process that occurs in a woman’s journey to and through motherhood. Matrescence does not end when a baby is born, rather it is a continual process that a mother takes throughout her life, experiencing new growths, challenges and development as time goes on.

Matrescence is an important rite of passage that is often forgotten in a baby-centric society. The needs of mothers and necessity of adequate support can be downplayed, despite research beginning to demonstrate the enormous transformation women go through in Matrescence. Studies show that even women’s brains physically change when they become mothers.

Nikki McCahon’s Seasons of Matrescence® is a mother-centric framework, providing a holistic and strengths-based approach to the stages of Motherhood. Just as the Earth goes through seasons, motherhood also has seasons. Some seasons are warm and social, and others precipitate more reflection and deep nourishment.