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Another example of 'putting our feet in theirs' is to examine the practice of taking
newborns away from mothers to be placed in a plastic container, bassinette or cot with crisp,
chemically-washed sheets pressing against their skin. What is wrong with keeping babies
safely close to the familiar drumming beat of the mother’s heart for the first minutes, hours,
days and initial months? By allowing newborns to lie for long periods on their mother’s,
and father’s, chest during the delicate rest and recuperation period in the first few weeks, we
naturally optimise the surges of love, affection, security, rest, sleep, food and energy for the
whole family.
The same awareness applies to a newborn’s physiological capacities. What we believe may
be a small amount of food or a small adjustment for their systems can be quite the opposite.
For example, science really does not explain how breast milk adapts to the ingredients and
nutrients consumed by breastfeeding mothers. A daily cup of coffee may buzz your baby out
for hours. That small ice cream you had will see your wee one feeling discomfort. Since some
intricate details of breast milk composition remain a mystery, erring on the side of caution
is sensible.
While placing your feet in theirs remember that practice makes perfect. Don’t
be too hard on yourself if you feel a little overwhelmed sometimes. This is natural.
It may take time to adapt and relax into the new challenges and workload. Have faith in
yourself and be gentle on yourself as you embrace your new role for the first, second or
multitude of times.
I wish you well on your journey of parenthood, learning to walk in ‘Size 0’ feet again and
growing with them. I sincerely hope these teachings help you experience your oneness of
family in the best way possible — in the way Mother Nature intended. With heartfelt wishes,
enjoy nurturing with nature and appreciating your baby as a ‘feeling and responsive being’.
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