The Neuroscience & Nurturescience of Babywearing

00:00 Introduction & episode overview
02:45 Rashmee’s journey into babywearing
07:30 Discovering support through La Leche League
12:10 Premature birth, breastfeeding & survival challenges
17:55 Skin-to-skin, regulation & the science behind closeness
22:40 Modern motherhood, identity & emotional conflict
27:15 The liberation babywearing brings to working mothers
32:00 Historical roots & traditional practices in India
36:55 Kangaroo Mother Care & Dr. Nils Bergman’s research
41:20 Regulation of temperature, heartbeat & nervous system
46:10 Babywearing beyond newborns — toddlers & big feelings
51:40 Travel, mobility & real-life experiences of mothers
56:25 Emotional empowerment & reclaiming maternal intuition
01:01:10 Closing reflections & embodied wisdom

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this powerful conversation, we explore the neuroscience and nurture science of babywearing — not as a trend, but as a biologically-rooted practice supporting both mother and child. With deep honesty and lived wisdom, Rashmee Gajra and Nikita Agarwal share how babywearing transformed their journeys with premature babies, high-needs infants, and modern motherhood’s emotional demands.

We trace the continuum from premature birth, breastfeeding and NICU experiences, to the role of skin-to-skin, co-regulation, thermoregulation, heart rhythm stability, and emotional bonding. The episode uncovers how babywearing supports not only survival — especially for preterm babies — but thriving, emotional regulation, and attachment security.

We also explore the cultural and historical context of babywearing across tribes, Indian traditions, and ancestral practices, contrasting it with modern isolation and nuclear families. Through personal stories, professional insights, and research-backed understanding, the conversation highlights how babywearing allows mothers to reclaim freedom, identity, intuition, and inner confidence — without losing connection to their babies.

Listeners are invited to rediscover babywearing as a deeply human, instinctive, and neurologically rich practice that strengthens families and supports long-term wellbeing.

MEET THE SPEAKERS

Rashmee Gajra

Architect-turned-entrepreneur, mother of two, and Founder of Anmol Baby Carriers, India’s first certified ergonomic babywearing brand. Her journey began with the premature birth of her baby, which led her to discover the transformative power of babywearing. From creating her first handmade wrap to building a globally recognized brand, she has empowered thousands of parents through education, workshops, and community support.

Nikita Agarwal

A mother of two and a certified Birth Doula, Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, Breastfeeding Educator, and Infant Massage Instructor. Nikita believes in presence, intuition, and holding space for birthing mothers. Her approach centers on emotional safety, informed choices, and nurturing confidence during pregnancy, birth, and early parenting.

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Effath Yasmin is a leading Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist, award-winning IBCLC Lactation Consultant, and documentary filmmaker. Known for her groundbreaking work integrating craniosacral therapy with infant oral function and breastfeeding science, she advocates for holistic maternal and infant wellness. Yasmin is the founder of Nourish & Nurture, co-founder of ICAP, international speaker, and author. Her acclaimed film Untying Breastfeeding has won multiple global awards.

Instagram: @effath_yasmin
YouTube: Nourish & Nurture
Website: https://nourishandnurture.in/