

Neuroscience of Attachment: satiated connection, rest and play as prerequisites for growth
Mar 4, 2025
Deb McNamara, a faculty member at the Neufeld Institute and author of 'Rest, Play, Grow' and 'Nourished', explores the profound impact of attachment in human development. She discusses how attachment is a lifelong necessity, shaping adult relationships through early experiences. The podcast dives into the importance of emotional discomfort in fostering resilience and empathy. McNamara also highlights the therapeutic role of play in emotional understanding and urges for nurturing practices that enhance children's emotional resilience.
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Maturation: Not Inevitable
- Maturation is spontaneous, but not inevitable, requiring specific conditions to unfold.
- These conditions include emotional rest, connection, play, and a sense of agency, not just lessons or discipline.
Rest from Attachment Pursuit
- Children and adults need rest from the constant pursuit of attachment and closeness.
- This rest allows energy to shift into play mode, fostering individuation and self-discovery.
The Role of Futility
- Futility, the experience of things not going as desired, builds resilience.
- Accepting futility and feeling associated emotions like sadness allows the brain to adapt and find new paths.