There is something unique about the mother-child bond. It’s not just the lullabies, night-time snuggles, or rocking. It’s also what is going on inside. A mother’s thoughts, emotions, and sentiments have a huge influence on her baby’s overall development, even before birth.
From the moment of being pregnant until the first few months of being a mother, a mother’s mood is the emotional climate of her baby. If happy, calm, and bonded, it is the foundation of a secure and emotionally healthy baby. But when stress, anxiety, or depression seep in and persist too long, it affects the baby’s development and emotional health too.
How Mum’s Emotions Impact the Baby’s Mind?
- When you’re happy, calm, and contented mum, the baby is safe. Feeling safe enables the baby’s brain to grow in a well-nurtured and healthy way. It promotes emotional intelligence and allows the child to grow into a self-assured and emotionally stable individual.
- Stress is not quite so simple, however. When a mother is constantly stressed or anxious, her body releases cortisol, the stress hormone. Too much of this hormone affects the developing brain and nervous system of the baby. Such stressed babies might be restless, fussy, and develop anxiety problems later on.
- Postpartum blues and emotional detachment can also impact bonding. If the mother is low following childbirth and is not capable of bonding with the baby, it might hinder the child’s social and emotional development. Eye contact, touch, and simply speaking with your baby are everything to that little soul.
Also Read: How to Take Care of Pregnant Women: Essential Pregnancy Care Tips
How Do You Take Care of Your Emotions?
- Talk it out: Whether it’s your spouse, a good friend, or a counsellor, don’t bottle it up. Talking it out relieves the emotional weight.
- Get your body moving: Go for light walks, practice some gentle yoga, or do a few stretches.
- Sleep, eat, love: Your physical well-being supports your emotional well-being. Don’t skip meals or lose sleep.
- Bond with your baby: Sing a tune, smile at them, and tell your baby about your day. Even when they don’t know what you’re saying, they sense your affection.
- Breathe: Take deep breaths, meditate, or even just five minutes of silence will soothe your nervous system.
Conclusion
Being a mom isn’t perfect. It’s being present. Your emotions matter, not just to you, but to that baby gazing up at you in wonder. Garbha Sanskar emphasizes nurturing your mental health with as much love as you lavish on your baby, fostering positivity and well-being. For, a happy mom creates a happy baby.
