How To: Give a Baby Massage
Baby Massage is a relaxing activity that parents can do to bond with their baby. It is just one of the ways parents can communicate love through touch. Several studies also show that massage supports positive infant development and growth.
Following are the many benefits of infant massage.
Physical benefits of Baby Massage:
- Increases blood flow and circulation.
- Strengthens the immune system.
- Stimulates neurological development.
- Provides sensory stimulation
- Relieves discomfort from constipation and gas.
- Aids in digestion
- Eases congestion and stimulates the baby’s ability to suck.
- Has a positive effect on colic symptoms.
- Produces Oxytocin.
Mental benefits of Baby Massage:
- Relaxes and reduces stress (Yes, even infants have it.)
- Promotes bonding and attachment
- Improves communication
- Promotes positive development and self esteem
- Helps baby to sleep better and longer
- Helps parents to learn about their baby which allows them to better care for their needs.
How to Give a Baby Massage
The best way to learn is by watching baby massage videos. The following video is a perfect step by step introduction.
Video: How To Massage Your Baby For Health And Happiness
Here are some tips:
- The best time to give a baby a massage is about 30 minutes after they have eaten or during bath time, when they are relaxed and calm, and both of you are in a good mood. Massage relaxes babies so it’s best not to do it immediately after a feeding or when the baby is hungry.
- Be sure the room and your hands are warm. If you decide to use baby massage oils warm them by rubbing your hands together before applying to the baby’s skin.
- The pressure you use should be the same as if you were to touch your eyelids. You shouldn’t press harder than you can press on your eyelids and be comfortable.
- Massage for no longer than 15 minutes per sitting and always stop if your baby cries or seems uncomfortable.
- Talk, sing, and laugh with your baby during massage.
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I love to write, learn, and share what I know - all while taking lots of pictures. I live in Los Angeles and am married to a very handsome man named Stan. We have a 5 year old Vizsla, a 3 year old daughter, and one on the way (due Aug, 2011). Thanks for stopping by!
I do not have anymore infants, but do understand the importance of Baby Massage. We went to Gymboree when my kids were little, and they do infant massage as part of their baby class. Great!
Great post! Baby massage is awesome!
Hey, I see you are in San Diego – I used to live there.
One of the stories my daughter loves to hear about all the time is the one where I was giving her a massage when she was 6 months old and she peed on me. But, I agree, baby massages are great (just not the pee part).
I agree babies love this…I used baby massage when my daughter was little to help her fall asleep. I still use it and she is 5…so calming and good for them.
Thank you ~ great tips!!
Thanks for visiting my blog. And thanks for sharing info in your blog.
One of my son’s first words was “…assage!” And now at four, my friend who is a massage therapist says he is her best client!