I've been reflecting on the profound journey of childbirth and its continued impact on our lives. Recently, I came across an article on Scientific American titled "When Does Consciousness Arise in Human Babies?" by Christof Koch (https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/when-does-consciousness-arise/). The piece explores the extraordinary origins of human consciousness and introduces a hypothesis that the birth process itself may be the initial catalyst for experiential life, as the newborn suddenly 'wakes up' to a world of sensory experiences.
Birth: A Gentle Awakening or a Hurried Introduction?
Birth, often depicted as a harmonious blend of miracle and nature, is more complex than we may initially conceive. Yes, it is a time of celebration and love, but it can also be a source of significant stress and potential trauma for both mother and child. The effects of childbirth on our body, mind and spirit can touch every corner of our lives. We must also acknowledge how deeply our birth experience can shape our relationship with time—an concept that silently dictates many aspects of our existence.
My experience with Time: A Personal Encounter