Henna Belly Decorating

Henna (otherwise known as Mehndi) is an art form that has been practiced in Middle Eastern cultures for thousands of years.  As a way to decorate the body in preparation for a special up-coming event, henna designs have been applied to the pregnant woman during the third trimester as a special symbol of protection for woman and child during the birthing process.  Originally applied particularly to the hands and feet (thought to be vulnerable to the outside world during pregnancy, labor and delivery), henna designs have more recently been adapted for the pregnant belly.  Mehndi applied as such uniquely enhances the beautiful form of the swollen pregnant belly, and celebrates the life contained within.  For more information on henna application during pregnancy (including safety information and resources, visit:

www.hennacaravan.com/pregnancy.html
www.birthwithsol.com/bellypainting.html