Day One: Connection

Babies are born with an innate drive to attach.  That is, to seek proximity and emotional connection to their primary caregivers, usually their parents.

Understanding Connection

We see this drive to connect in the way that babies often rest easily in the arms of a caregiver, and in the way our presence during the night can result in easier bedtimes and soothing.

Biologically speaking, when a parent responds to their baby's cries with love and care, a cascade of neurochemical processes occurs in both the infant's and parent's brains.

One example is a surge in oxytocin, often called the "love hormone" or "bonding hormone,” which acts to strengthen the emotional connection between parent and child.

Research in fields such as neurology, psychology, and epigenetics confirm time and again that nurturing connection during infancy has a lasting impact on emotional regulation, gene expression, and long-term health and well-being. What this means, day-to-day, is that when we connect with our babies responsively and sensitively, we’re supporting their emotional and cognitive development and laying the foundations for a healthy, secure future.

  • But connection is inherently a two-way street.  We, as parents, are experiencing closeness and regulation by default, during every connecting interaction with our little ones.

Because connection also has a profound impact on adult well-being.  In fact, connection lies at the heart of our human experience. It's a fundamental aspect of our lives, influencing our emotional, psychological, and physical well-being in a myriad of ways…

  • Emotional Support & Resilience

    One of the most far-reaching benefits of connection is emotional support.  Knowing there are people who care about our well-being provides us with a safety net and a buffer against life's challenges.

  • Belonging

    Connection is the cornerstone of belonging. Feeling that we belong to a family, group, or community, can give us a sense of purpose and identity.

  • Reducing Stress

    Studies show that meaningful interactions can reduces stress and promote relaxation. It's why a heartfelt conversation or a hug can instantly soothe frayed nerves.  In fact, the reassurance that we can rely on others for help and understanding provides a profound sense of security.

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Today's Task: Connect

Connection isn’t a luxury; it's a necessity for our well-being. It supports us emotionally, fosters a sense of belonging, and reduces stress levels, and the good news is - we can connect in many ways.

That bedtime snuggle with your baby?  Connection.

The story you read to your toddler during quiet time?  Connection.

The voice note from your bestie that you finally get a chance to listen to while you’re prepping dinner?  Connection.

So with all of that in mind, let’s get to today’s task…

Tomorrow, we'll be exploring the world of attunement, and how 'tuning in' to baby's needs can have a profound effect on our wellbeing as moms. See you then!

The 5 Day Reset

Day 1 - Connection

Day 2 - Attunement

Day 3 - Neurology

Day 4 - Nervous System Regulation

Day 5 - Nurture