What is infant massage or baby massage?
Infant massage, also referred to as baby massage, is a beautiful massage for babies. The gentle, light touch of infant massage is tender and loving. When massaging babies, very little baby lotion or natural oil (not synthetic or mineral) would be used.
Infant massage benefits
Infant massage benefits both the newborn as well as the parents. Massaging baby is an excellent way to help reduce colic by reducing stress. Helping baby relax will in turn, lead to better overall health.
Massaging your baby helps relieve a gassy newborn of newborn gas pain, which is one of the most common dilemmas parents face with their new baby. Infant massage is a great way to calm baby that also aids in the baby’s growth and development while keeping the internal systems working smoothly.
The more relaxed your baby is, the less stress there is on their system. This is key because they are under enough stress simply by growing and learning every day. The less stress they have from their external surroundings, the less stress they will have on their interior systems, such as their digestive system.
Stress and digestive issues for gassy newborn
Stress causes digestive upset. In most people, including infants, this commonly manifests itself as either diarrhea or constipation. Of those affected, constipation is most likely to be the symptom noted.
Infant massage, therefore, is a natural newborn gas remedy that also assists with relieving newborn constipation. A gassy infant often indicates constipation is present.
Eliminating newborn gas pain and constipation allows the baby to feel better and also sleep better. Hopefully, you can see the pattern forming.
Relieving your baby of unnecessary pain and discomfort is a gift you can give via infant massage as often as possible. And, although you are helping them, you will find that the bond between you and your baby will grow stronger every time you massage your baby and add to your parenting experience.
Note: If your baby has a fever or may be coming down with a cold or flu, massage would not be advised. Consult your physician if there are any questions or concerns prior to giving your baby a massage.
Although there are massage therapists who offer baby massage, we have described it here for parents to do themselves. If you aren’t comfortable with this, then please find a qualified therapist instead.
Massaging baby and what to expect
Talk softly or sing to your little one while massaging baby. Your baby will love their massage and most babies calm down quickly once the massage begins.
Maintain eye contact with them, as they will be focused on you. You may be surprised at just how intimately your baby will respond to you.
Begin the massage with your baby lying on their back. Do not use any lotion or oil for massaging babies at the beginning. Using a light, gentle touch, in slow, small circles, start with the baby’s head and face. Gently and slowly work your way down toward their neck and chest.
After the face, apply a small amount of baby lotion or natural vegetable or plant-based oil (one with vitamin E will help your baby’s skin).
Move slowly and rhythmically across the baby’s chest and abdomen. When massaging their tummy, always work in a clockwise motion, starting from the lower right and moving up toward the bottom of their rib cage (staying below the ribs), then over toward the left, and moving down the left side.
Lift your fingers after coming to the lower left, move back to the lower right and start massaging again, moving up, over and down toward the lower left again. Repeating this gentle movement a few times will encourage healthy digestion and elimination. Remember not to press hard, this is a gentle process.
Next, move to the arms and hands, massaging each finger one by one. Then, on to the legs, finishing with the feet and all of the toes. Turn your baby over to lie on their stomach and start again at the head and work your way to their feet. Note that the clockwise motion over the abdominal area is only for the front, where you will be working the digestive system directly.
After their massage and how often to massage baby
After the baby’s massage is complete, they will be very relaxed and ready to rock quietly before turning in for the night. This small effort should help your baby sleep better and hopefully through the night.
Infant massage should only last a few minutes, making it a great way to wind down the day for you and your baby. The best times are either after their bath or just before quiet time and going to bed.
We encourage both parents to take part in massaging babies, not just the mother. The communication and intimacy with both parents is necessary. When Dad takes the time to massage your baby, then he also has the opportunity for this special bonding.
Enjoy this special time every night or as often as possible!
In addition to infant massage, learn about the benefits of infant chiropractic care as well!
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