Finn is in a Yoga stage of breastfeeding. He can nurse and do downward dog or half moon with relative ease. Sometimes he looks up at me and grins without letting go of my nipple! I adore him because he is wonderful, because he is my baby, because I am breastfeeding him and nature knows how to make me feel bonded to him.
One of the greatest benefits of breastfeeding is the maternal/infant bond! Research in this area has been limited, but one study says that women who breastfeed touch their babies more during feeding and playtime (http://www.questia.com/googleScholar.qst?docId=5002016356).
Of course all mommies are in awe of and in love with the life that enters their family, but what is it about breastfeeding that makes us feel so close and connected? I suspect that some of that is obvious. Your skin is touching and you are actually connected by the babies latch (suction).
The hormone oxytocin plays an important part in delivering milk to your baby. An added side effect is that oxytocin makes women feel relaxed and completely lovey dovey. It buffers your feelings of stress, and even influences those around us like your baby who is ingesting it in your milk, and maybe your spouse who is sleeping next to you as the oxytocin wafts around you. Some call it the hormone of love!
How do you think breastfeeding has effected your bond with your child? (This goes for children who are no longer breastfeeding as well.)
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