Even though you probably don’t need extra reasons to kiss your child as much as possible (it comes naturally to mamas like you!), it’s good to know that science tells us  those smooches may benefit your child’s health, too.

A study published earlier this year in Molecular Psychiatry showed that “early childhood experiences can have a lasting effect on health by influencing a person’s risk for chronic inflammation, the immune reaction that is the body’s first line of defense against disease,” reported MSNBC.com.

Researchers took blood samples from 53 adults— half reporting warm, loving relationships when growing up with mom, and the other half reporting more distant relationships. “Subjects who had a warm bond with mom expressed fewer genetic markers of inflammation, which over time can take a toll on the body” and lead to disease, the story reported.

So snuggle in close to your child the next time he or she needs a little extra lovin’. You may be helping to create a lifetime of better health, on top of creating loving memories. (One more good reason to come to BYOB — Bring Your Own Baby yoga — Tots, Kids or Family Yoga at Blooma!)

Love,

Alisa, Sarah & the women of Blooma