In the vast expanse of Yamal, Russia, a captivating tale of resilience and tradition unfolds.
Meet Vera, a remarkable nomad of the tundra, who is eagerly anticipating the arrival of her baby, now in the ninth month of her pregnancy.
Her day begins before the rest of her family stirs, as she awakens to make a fire and melt the snow, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the tundra women.
Despite her condition, Vera perseveres with her daily chores, taking care of her husband and children while also tending to tasks outside.
This glimpse into the lives of the nomadic women reveals a stark contrast to their urban counterparts, as they continue to toil until the very moment they give birth.
No comfort creatures here- just pure grit and determination.
The cultural beliefs of the tundra nomads run deep.
One such belief is that women are not allowed to give birth in their traditional dwelling, known as a chum, as it is considered unclean.
Instead, they have upheld the practice of giving birth in a small, cold outbuilding, a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
Vera is no stranger to this way of life.
She has already experienced the birth of two children, both in the harsh conditions of the tundra.
Meanwhile, her husband diligently tends to their reindeer herd, which serves as their primary source of livelihood.
The division of labor is clear and unwavering, with each family member contributing to the collective survival.
The pregnant nomads’ diet mirrors the raw and unfiltered nature of their surroundings.
Just like others in the community, Vera continues to consume raw frozen fish and reindeer meat, blissfully unaware of the dietary restrictions followed by pregnant women in the cities.
The concept of avoiding even a rare steak during pregnancy is entirely foreign to her.
As the time of birth approaches, the family prepares diligently.
Vera’s grandmother crafts a traditional deerskin envelope, a warm cocoon where the newborn will be placed.
Meanwhile, her husband arranges for a helicopter to transport her to a hospital and contacts a doctor in town.
However, nature often follows its own course. A snow blizzard unexpectedly blankets the tundra, grounding all flights for several days.
Despite this setback, Vera goes into labor.
Her aunt rushes to her side, heating water and making arrangements for the birth.
The women of the tundra are known for their remarkable stoicism during labor, valuing resilience above any show of pain.
The labor is long and challenging, but finally, a small yet beautiful baby girl enters the world.
The family awaits the arrival of the doctors, who eventually make it when the weather clears.
The baby, snuggled in the deerskin envelope, weighs a healthy 3 kg, much to the delight of everyone.
The lives of the tundra nomads stand as a testament to their resilience and fortitude.
Even in the face of adversity, they continue to live and flourish, their traditions and way of life unaffected by the passage of time.
The birth of Vera’s daughter is not only a celebration of new life but also a tribute to the enduring spirit of the tundra women.
See what it takes to make life happen in the Arctic in the video below!
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