The Bright SideAt the start of her pregnancy, Marica Lowe felt an overwhelming fear for her and her unborn baby’s safety.
In New Orleans, she even skipped Mardi Gras, a festival that's usually her highlight.
But as spring approached, nature drew her back in.
During her third trimester, she organized a “sensory walk” through Couturie Forest, reconnecting with her love for nature and the joy it brings.
This shift led to a profound mental peace and connection with her baby.
Research shows that engaging with nature can lead to healthier pregnancies, especially crucial for Black women facing high maternal mortality rates.
80% of these deaths are preventable.
Unfortunately, access to nature is a challenge for many Black women due to systemic inequalities.
Disinvestment in neighborhoods has left them with limited green spaces, exacerbating health disparities.
Health advocacy groups are working to change this, helping Black women reclaim their health through nature.
When walking in the park, they’re not just relaxing but empowering themselves on their motherhood journey.
The movement aims for policy changes that address environmental racism while promoting health and wellness for Black families.
Nature became a remedy for Lowe against the injustices in healthcare, reflecting the need for systemic change.
Check the full content here: https://reasonstobecheerful.world/black-women-maternal-health-nature/.
