INSPOHEALTH

  Friendships are a vital part of life, and if you’re struggling to make or keep friends, you’re not alone. There are so many valid reasons this might be happening, but the good news is that every single one of them is fixable. Let’s break down some of the reasons and how to work through them. 1. Social Anxiety This is when fear or nervousness around people causes you to avoid social interaction. You shrink in group settings, stay quiet, and isolate yourself. To overcome this, start small. Engage in low-pressure social settings and gradually push your comfort zone. Therapy and social skills coaching can also help a lot. 2. Low Self-Esteem / Self-Worth How you view yourself affects everything. You don’t want to come off as arrogant, but also not so insecure that you feel others are doing you a favor by being your friend. You are valuable. Step into relationships knowing you bring something meaningful to the table. When you carry that energy, people will naturally want to connect wit...

  Bonding with your newborn is an essential part of parenting. While certain factors—such as postpartum depression, financial or relationship stress, or situations where the baby is in the NICU or born with a medical condition—can affect bonding, it remains a vital aspect of your baby’s overall development. Bonding not only helps caregivers connect with their babies and better understand their needs, but it also supports the baby’s physical, mental, and emotional growth. It encourages the release of hormones like oxytocin, which plays a key role in nurturing feelings and brain development. Here are six practical and effective ways to bond with your newborn: 1. Skin-to-Skin Contact Also known as Kangaroo Care, skin-to-skin contact involves placing your baby upright against your bare chest. This method provides warmth, comfort, and security. It helps your baby learn your breathing patterns, scent, and skin texture, promoting emotional and physical connection. Research shows that skin...