Foreword

In a period in which the Covid-19 pandemic changed the way of life around the world and put the Western way of life (influenced by economic and commercial factors) in serious crisis, Dr. Sansone referred to the enhancement of past experiences and to the wisdom that can be found in ancient habits and cultures, but still present in many populations of Africa and Asia. The author also highlights sociological and philosophical problems and promotes a vision of parenting which, by integrating different cultures, leads to changing our western stereotypes. In particular, the early (also prenatal) relationship between mother and baby is influenced, enhanced not only by the mental health of the mother, but also of the father, the healthcare practitioners, and the entire community. In fact, research has shown that the relationship between parents, especially in romantic love, tends to be configured as an attachment relationship in which, during the perinatal period, both protect the partner and their mental states influence each other. Mothers’ and their infants’ well-being have also been supported since pregnancy and beforehand by the entire village for millenia.In this perspective, Sansone proposes an innovative mindfulness relationship-based model rooted in the most ancient practice, enhancing mother-fetus communication and connection to support parental mental health and the mother-father-baby triad relationship in pregnancy and beyond birth. This book is invaluable reading not only for psychologists and health professionals (gynecologists, pediatricians, obstetricians, midwives, neonatologists, nurses) who deal with perinatal, but also for new parents who want to grow their babies healthy and safe and thus contribute to a healthier society.