The images created by contemporary society sanction the idealisation of motherhood. These representations of mother and child engender the concept of absolute happiness, of completeness and of the fulfilment of a life's dream. The reality experienced by a great many mothers contrasts these images, instead, many relate an internal conflict, evoking feelings of uncertainty, inadequacy and a sense of loss of self. All these feelings conflicting with the joy they feel in the wonderment of a new life.

Health professionals are in a key position to help women grow from their early experiences of motherhood. By assisting them to identify and draw on their inner strengths, women are able to normalise their experiences, address their distress and progress through the adjustment of early parenting to a new confidence and the development of a healthy mother infant attachment.

Karitane is setting the benchmark in holistic care by offering a program of creative arts, within their Residential Unit. Through the process of creative visualisation, photo imagery, dance, Yoga, music, meditation and reflective journal writing the facilitator is able to acquaint women with a new awareness, a certain harmony of mind and body. Sensitivities are heightened through massage and aromatherapy, and the bond felt with their infant is enhanced in the experience of infant massage.

The philosophy of the program is reflected in the words of Aristotles, " When the parts of the body and its humors are not in harmony then the mind is unbalanced and melancholy ensures, but on the other hand a quiet and happy mind makes the whole body healthy"

This paper will detail the benefits women relate upon experiencing the program. It will describe how they perceived the process helping them to find their inner strengths, to calm their inner conflict and to take a newfound joy in being a mother.