The Science Behind Our Maternal Instinct to Hold Our Babies

We have all seen it, the dreamy eyed mother in that beautiful newborn bubble, gazing at her baby with a love that seems to stop time. There is something magical about those early days, when a mother’s soft tummy becomes the perfect resting place for her little one’s curled up body. I often tell new mothers that our gentle postpartum bellies and the way newborns naturally curl are nature’s way of creating the perfect place for closeness, warmth, and connection.

While this instinct to hold and nurture our babies feels deeply emotional, there is also incredible science behind it. Working as a neonatal nurse, I have witnessed firsthand how vital touch and cuddles are for a baby’s growth and development. Research shows that skin to skin contact, often called kangaroo care, plays a powerful role in stabilising a newborn’s temperature, heart rate, and breathing. It also supports healthy brain development, reduces stress hormones, and helps mothers produce more milk by releasing oxytocin, the beautiful bonding hormone that strengthens emotional connection.

In my work, I feel privileged to support mothers and babies as they navigate those first precious days together, especially when medical care or treatment requires some separation. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a mother reconnect with her baby, guiding her through feeding, holding, and those tender first moments of reclaiming her role. We know that babies thrive best in their mother’s arms, their breathing slows, their temperature balances, and they settle to the familiar scent and sound of her voice.

This understanding of the science of touch inspired me to create our gentle massage oil. It is a beautiful way to bring more touch into your daily rituals, moments that nurture connection and calm for both mother and baby. Made without nut oils, it is safe for newborn skin and soothing for mothers too, especially when stretched, dry, or sensitive after pregnancy.

Through every product I make, my hope is to help you turn everyday care into meaningful connection, because sometimes, the simplest touch is the most powerful medicine of all.