A captivating photo emerged, showcasing a newborn spelling out ‘LOVE’ with its umbilical cord. Titled ‘Welcome Earthside, Sweet Little Harper,’ the photo quickly went viral after being posted by Emma Jean Photography on January 2. Photographer and UK midwife Emma Jean Nolann aimed to highlight an ancient Maori tradition of burying the placenta, symbolizing respect for the Earth that provides nourishment, aligning with Maori beliefs. The Maoris, indigenous to New Zealand, return the placenta to the land as a tribute to the Earth.

Emma Jean Nolann explained the Maori tradition on Facebook, stating that for a Maori baby like Harper, the placenta would now be returned to the land. The word ‘whenua’ refers to both the placenta and the land, symbolizing the link between the newborn, the placenta, and ‘Papatuanuku,’ or Mother Earth. The act establishes an affinity, making each individual a curator for Papatuanuku throughout their life.

Nolann had long desired to capture such an image, waiting for a baby with a long enough umbilical cord. Harper’s cord lent itself perfectly to forming the word ‘love.’ The photo garnered thousands of shares and comments, with many expressing awe at the beauty of the image. Parents who had experienced placenta burial themselves shared their appreciation for the tradition, considering it a beautiful way to honor the beginning of life and give back to the land. However, some expressed the desire to incorporate this practice in hospital births, highlighting the need for awareness and acceptance of diverse cultural traditions.