Why does Daisy Ridley have such a unique belly button?

Belly buttons, or navels, are the scar left behind after the umbilical cord detaches from a newborn, typically visible on all mammals, including humans.

The appearance of a person’s belly button, whether it is an innie or an outie, is primarily determined by genetics and how the umbilical cord was cut.

Different people have different shapes and sizes of belly buttons, which can also be influenced by factors such as weight gain, pregnancy, and body fat distribution.

In some cultures, belly buttons hold symbolic meanings; for example, they can represent a connection to one’s origins or a reminder of the bond between mother and child.

The skin surrounding the belly button has a different texture and may be more sensitive than other areas of the abdomen due to a higher concentration of nerve endings.

Belly buttons can harbor unique microbiomes, meaning they may contain specific types and amounts of bacteria that can vary massively from person to person.

The shape and depth of a belly button can play a role in health assessments, as certain shapes may be more associated with abdominal wall issues or other medical conditions.

Studies have found that belly buttons can potentially host over 2,300 different species of bacteria, including some that are unique to the individual and not found anywhere else.

Aesthetic trends and cultural beauty standards can heavily influence how society views and cares for belly buttons, sometimes leading to cosmetic surgery for modifications.

In ancient Greece, the belly button was regarded as a psychic center of the body, and was considered the locus of one's energy.

Some scientific studies have shown that people who have had piercings in their belly buttons may be more susceptible to infections, given the constant moisture and exposure of this area.

Research has shown that a surprising number of women experience pre- and post-natal body image issues related to changes in their belly button after childbirth.

For some individuals, belly buttons may form keloids, which are raised scars that can develop at the site of cuts, piercings, or even from the natural healing process of the belly button itself.

Fascinatingly, images of belly buttons have been subjects of artistic expression and cultural representation, symbolizing more than just a physical attribute.

There are resources and discussions emerging about the future of belly button aesthetics, including the concept of "navel aesthetics," where individuals seek to modify their belly buttons through surgery or fashion.

It’s intriguing to note that the belly button area is often associated with vulnerability, as it is a part of the body that connects to crucial life-sustaining functions.

The belly button can also signal health issues; for example, if there is discharge or unusual symptoms, it could indicate an infection or an underlying possibility of hernia.

People often engage in practices of ‘navel-gazing’ referring to self-reflection and introspection, which adds a layer of metaphorical meaning to the physical belly button in psychological discussions.

There is an emerging scientific field that studies the impact of toxins on the body, including how belly buttons can accumulate environmental pollutants, highlighting their surprising role as indicators of exposure.

Understanding belly button biology and its variations can reflect greater questions about human adaptability and variation, tying personal identity to broader biological and cultural trends.