My son Ocean recently weaned himself from breastfeeding. He nursed for 17 months, and during that time he was given an incredible foundation of nutrition, security and love for his entire life. It’s been A LOT of work, and I’ve found myself grieving this time and transition quite deeply in my heart.

I treasured our unique bonding time, and those sweet months of incredible connection that we had. We are finding new ways to be close now, and I’m also entering into yet another phase of letting him go – I hadn’t realized before I became a mother just how much letting go I’d be doing, and he’s not even two yet!

After pregnancy and breastfeeding, I have a completely new relationship with my body and my breasts in particular. The amount of gratitude, reverence and awe that I carry in my heart for my incredible body and its ability to nourish my son the way it’s been able to… the entire experience has transformed my perspective on what it means to be a woman.

Now that breastfeeding has come to an end, it’s time to care even more for ME. My breasts are asking for some serious TLC, and I’m reminded of how important this is for every woman, no matter the phase of life you’re in.

I’m talking about much more than regular breast self-exams and finding a comfortable bra that fits. I think every woman is lacking some essential creative encouragement and inspiration when it comes to new, simple and practical ways to care for our feminine form.

One idea that I’ll share with you here is to try giving yourself a breast massage as a very self-loving place to start. Massage is meant to feel good, and it offers a plethora of health benefits, too. The shower is the best place to do this – just lather up, gather the girls up in your hands, and get to know and love them!

Massage them from the base of your breasts out to the nipple in a circular motion. Learn to recognize the monthly changes that your breasts go through, and how the different phases of your menstrual cycle, or moon cycle, affect how they look and feel.

Ask them what they need, and listen. Tell them how much you appreciate and love them, and dress them in pretty things that feel good against your skin. It’s important to take care of “the girls”, to honor them, and to remember how beautiful and powerful they are.

They will love you for it!