Networks of men and women all over the world have sat in unison to laugh, cry, and celebrate for a shared purpose. Applying intricately patterned shapes and designs to each other’s bodies has been one of those reasons, a way for us to sit in shared love and power while mapping the stories of our lives out on hands and feet.

Donning ourselves in decoration is as old as time, and deep brown and red paints temporarily interwoven between fingers and toes—better known as henna—serve more than just a pretty purpose at bridal parties. The power of those painted lines and paisley prints lies in communion, spirituality, and intention, making henna more than just a plant, but a way to map out shared cultures that further connect us to our world.