"At Home with Snuggs" is a series that revolves around individuals sharing their genuine and authentic menstruation experiences.
This month we chat with Rosmine + their daughter Shamin, all about motherhood and navigating educating your children on menstruation in a safe and inclusive environment.
Q1- To begin with, would you mind introducing yourself, and giving us a brief overview of you, your work and what you are all about?
My name is Rosmine, I’m currently going through a 360 career change into styling. I’ve always been a creative ever since I can remember, I love how clothes make me feel and how we use them to express ourselves. We’re like Christmas trees choosing how to decorate our branches everyday. As a mum I want to show my daughter that your never too old to pursue your dreams.
Q2- How did you first introduce the topic of menstruation to your daughter?
I have always been open about my body and my period in our home. Ever since she was little, if she saw a pad I would explain what it was, why I was using it. I’ve always wanted her to have as much information about her body as I could give, I truly believe the more you know the more your able to make better decisions for yourself.
Q3- How do you discuss the emotional and physical changes that come with puberty and menstruation?
We have open communication at home, so I like to tell her about my mood swings before, during and after my period. So for instance she knows that I get quite emotional coming up to my period, but we’ve noticed on the other hand she gets a little shorter with patience coming up to hers. It’s a journey figuring out your body and your period as a women, I’m 28 and I’m still figuring out so I know that this conversation between us is one that will span our entire life together.
Q4- Can you share your experience with period swimwear? How has it changed your approach to swimming and beach activities during your period?
I don’t really remember my mum speaking to me about periods in our home. It happened you where given the basic necessities and left to deal. I didn’t want that for her, that’s why I make it such a big deal for us to talk to one another.
Q5- Shamin: How did you feel when you first learned about menstruation, and how has your perspective changed since then?
I felt alright I didn’t really think too much into it. I’m still learning, I thought it would be a lot more painful but right now it’s not. I know that i can ask my mum if i have any questions and she’ll tell me everything.
Q6- What practical advice do you give each other for managing periods, such as dealing with
I tell her to listen to her body as much as possible. To not push herself too much during her period and practise self care. In terms of products I’m still trying to figure out what works for me, but so far I really love Snuggs as an alternative to pads.
Q7- What advice would you give to other mothers and daughters who may struggle with talking about periods and body changes?
Don’t be scared of the conversation. There’s no right or wrong thing to be said. When my daughter first had her period I wanted her to know everything about periods and body changes, but now I realise you have to do it with time. With age comes understanding of certain things, so don’t feel pressured if they’re not interested in learning about certain things or talking to you about certain things, with time they will reach out when needed, just leave the door opened for them.
Q8- When are you most connected with your body?
When I’m wearing a bold and vibrant outfit.
Q9- How are you kind to yourself, others and the planet?
I’m kind to myself by being patient with myself, showing myself understanding that I give my daughter. I’m kind to others by never taking what they do personally, good or bad what people do to you is more about them than it is about you. & the planet I try to educate myself about what’s happening outside my door, supporting and advocating for voices that can’t be heard from so far.
Q10- Could you share any rituals or self-care routines you follow during your menstrual cycle.
I’m kind to myself by being patient with myself, showing myself understanding that I give my daughter. I’m kind to others by never taking what they do personally, good or bad what people do to you is more about them than it is about you. & the planet I try to educate myself about what’s happening outside my door, supporting and advocating for voices that can’t be heard from so far.
Q11- Can you describe your personal journey with your menstrual cycle and how it intersects with your day to day life.
I’ve come along way with my relationship with my body, I never paid much attention to my periods growing up. They came and went every month but it was never something I thought about, but now as I get older and want to understand myself more. I’ve started to take time into understanding how my periods effect me, how I can help my body and mind cope during and after my period. The older I get the more I’m centering myself and with that comes a need to better understand my needs and wants, it given me back my autonomy knowing why I do or act a certain way, it’s truly been a liberating journey so far.
Q12- How has your understanding of your own menstrual experience influenced your perspective on menstruation in a broader context?
It’s influenced me by just empowering me, I love that as women we all have this one thing that bonds us forever. Periods, lack of periods, then menopause, it’s an experience that can be shared with so many of us regardless how we’re experiencing it. It’s made me appreciate the sisterhood im a part of.
