Embarking on the journey of motherhood is a universal experience that binds us not only to mothers of our own species but to all mothers across species, space and time. In the midst of parental challenges, we find solace in the shared wisdom of those who came before us and the intricate connections that shape our daily lives.
‘‘It is the nightly custom of every good mother, after her children are asleep, to rummage in their minds and put things straight for next morning, repacking into their proper places the many articles that have wandered during the day.’ (JM Barrie, Peter Pan)
Limbic Resonance and Neurological Development: The crucial role of limbic resonance in the neurological development of infants emphasizes the importance of the emotional connection between sleeping parents and their babies. This concept sheds light on the intricate web of emotions that contribute to a child's healthy cognitive growth. Read more about limbic resonance
Lullabies: A Window into the Caregiver's Soul: Mona, a Syrian refugee living in Turkey, beautifully expresses the significance of lullabies as the first love songs we hear. For her, a lullaby is a "window into the caregivers' soul," a poignant connection to her homeland. Discover more about the power of lullabies in the December issue of National Geographic, exploring their role across different cultures. #livinglullabies #Mongolia National Geographic Link
Magic Trees of the Mind: Marian Diamond and Janet Hopson's metaphorical description of a child's mind as enchanted forests of branching nerve cells highlights the magical nature of childhood consciousness. These intricate connections form the living fabric of a child's awareness and shape their understanding of the world. Read more about Magic Trees of the Mind
Vibrations and Sleep: A fascinating study explores the connection between vibrations and sleep in fruit flies, offering insights into the potential impact of external stimuli on infant sleep patterns. This research opens new avenues for understanding and promoting healthy sleep habits. Read more about fruit fly vibrations
Censorship and the Power of Stories: The notion of establishing a censorship of fiction writers, highlighted in a quote, underscores the importance of shaping young minds with tales that embody moral values. It prompts us to consider the profound impact stories have on molding both the mind and the character of the next generation. ‘The first thing shall be to establish a censorship of the writers of fiction, and let the censors receive any tale that is good, and reject the bad; and we will desire mothers and nurses to tell their children the authorised ones only. Let them fashion the mind with such tales, even more fondly than they mould the body with their hands.’ Plato: Socrates – Adeimantus, circa 350BC, Athens, Greece
As we navigate the complex and beautiful tapestry of motherhood, these diverse insights remind us of the interconnectedness that defines the maternal experience. From the nightly rituals to the magic of lullabies and the profound wisdom of literature, mothers across the world share a unique connection that weaves through time and resonates with the universal truths of nurturing and love.
Maddie’s Lullaby
‘Sleep little one. Close your eyes. Your body’s cooling with the night. Let your worries slip away. Tomorrow is a brand new day. Silvery moon and satin sky. The soft wind breathes its lullaby. Your dreams are here to set you free. The dawn will bring you back to me’
In the movie, ‘Back to the Outback’, a python remembers her mother singing to her before she was brought to the zoo to be displayed as a terrifying predator.
'I knew everything from the beginning but I couldn’t remember until this moment. I was woven into the creases of the lullaby.'
Comments