Why You Should Not Miss Baby

Why You Should Not Miss Baby’s Daily Massage

Baby massages have a variety benefits. With each gentle stroke, your baby will feel nurtured and loved, strengthening the bond between the two of you. Massages will also allow your baby to feel more relaxed, which may improve their sleep.

Some research suggests baby massage might even promote healthy growth, although further research is needed.

Not sure where to start? We’ve put together a handy guide on the benefits and techniques. It’ll teach you all you need to know about baby massages.

Bonding through baby massage

Baby massages are a great way to bring you and your little one closer. Trust and communication develop as you interact with your baby. Your calming touch will make your baby feel loved and cared for, too.

Your baby will also feel relaxed during a massage. Some reports suggest this relaxation may help improve their sleep, but more research is needed.

The health benefits of baby massage

According to the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM), baby massage may help to stimulate the circulatory and digestive systems. This might, in turn, help some babies with conditions such as:

• gas
• cramps
• colic
• constipation

Massages may also help ease muscular tension, growing pains, and teething discomfort, as well as stimulate growth in preterm infants.

However, a Cochrane systematic review found little evidence for these reported benefits. More research is needed to support these claims.

If your baby has any health issues, you should speak with their doctor first to decide if you should massage your baby.

When to start baby massage

The IAIM suggests that parents introduce touch as soon as the baby is born.

Many moms and dads love to do so by placing their baby on their chest, bare skin to bare skin. This is known as skin-to-skin care or kangaroo care. While you’re holding your baby close, gradually start stroking their legs and back. Then move on to other areas such as the arms.

After the first few weeks of birth, you can begin massaging your baby. However, make sure to follow your baby’s mood. Your baby should be calm, alert, and content when you’re ready to give them a massage. Never perform any massage technique that seems to make your baby uncomfortable.

It’s not the best time for a massage when your baby turns their head away from you or stiffens their arms. Doctors suggests waiting at least 45 minutes after a feeding. Performing a baby massage too soon after they eat can cause vomiting.

Techniques for massaging your baby

Here are some tips and techniques that will help you and your baby make the most of massage time. A 100% Natural Massage Oil is recommended.

A cozy atmosphere is essential

Massage your baby in a warm, quiet place.

Make sure you and your baby are in a comfortable spot. Place them on a towel on their back so they can maintain eye contact. This can be on their changing table or on your bed. Let them know it’s massage time as you undress them.

Start slow

Place your baby on their back and begin by slowly rubbing each body part. Your touch should be gentle at first.

Spend some time rubbing each of their body parts, starting with their head and moving gradually down to their feet. There’s no specific recommended time for the massage. Each part of the massage should last as long as you and your baby are enjoying it.

You can also try placing your baby on their belly for a short massage, though some babies may not like being on their tummies for long.

Repeat it all over again

If you and your baby are enjoying the massage, continue by repeating the rubbing motions, starting again from their head and moving down toward their feet.

Keep talking

Always communicate with your baby during the massage. Repeat their name and the word “relax” to help them calm down.

You can also tell a story or sing their favourite nursery rhyme as you move around their body.