Massages for babies are a relaxing therapy that will calm your baby’s anxiety and help build bonds. Massages can also provide numerous health benefits for infants and can help ease cramping, gas and constipation.
Massages for babies have many advantages. With each gentle stroke you baby can feel pampered and loved, thereby strengthening the bond between both of you. Massages can also help your baby to relax and relaxed, which can aid in your baby’s sleep.
Certain studies suggest that massage for babies may even help promote healthy growth, though more studies are needed.
Are you unsure of where to begin? We’ve compiled a helpful guide to the benefits and methods. It will show you everything you should be aware of baby massages.
Baby massages and bonding
Baby massages are an excellent method to bring both of you closer. Communication and trust grow when you interact with your child. Your soothing touch will help your baby feel special and taken care of and also.
Your baby may also feel at ease during the massage. A few reports suggest that this type of relaxation can help to improve sleep, however more research is required.
The health benefits of massage for babies
As per the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) Massage for babies could help to stimulate the digestive and circulatory systems. This could assist certain babies suffering from conditions like:
- gas
- cramps
- colic
- constipation
Massages can also ease muscle tension, pains that grow and discomfort with teething, and may also encourage growth in preterm infants.
However an Cochrane systematic review found no evidence of these benefits. More research is required to verify these claims.
If your baby has health concerns, you must consult your doctor before deciding if you want to massaging your child.
When is the best time to begin massage for babies?
The IAIM recommends that parents introduce touch as early when the baby is born.
Many parents and moms like to pamper their infant on their chests, with naked skin to naked skin. This is referred to as skin-to-skin care or Kangaroo care. As you hold your child close, slowly begin stroking their back and legs. After that, move to other areas like the arms.
Following those first couple of weeks after the birth, you may commence massaging baby. But, be sure to keep in mind the mood of your baby. Your child should be peaceful and alert when you’re eager to massage them. Do not perform any massage technique that could make your child uncomfortable.
It’s not the ideal time to give a massage if your baby’s head turns away from you or stiffens up their arms, as per the Mayo Clinic. It is recommended to wait at least 45 minutes after eating. Mayo Clinic also suggests waiting for at least 45 minutes following the feeding. Giving the baby massage too quickly after eating could cause vomiting.
How often should you perform baby massage?
The frequency of massages you give your baby is dependent on your child and you. Some parents give their children massages every day, while others massage their little babies every each day.
Massage your baby throughout the day to help get the day started or before time to go to bed, you can help ease your baby into sleep. Be attentive to your baby’s signs to determine the best massage routine for your baby.
Procedures for massaging your child
Here are some suggestions and techniques to assist you and your baby to get the most out of massage time.
A warm and cozy environment is vital.
Massage your baby in a cozy and quiet area.
Make sure that you and your child are at a level and comfortable place. Lay them on a towel on their backs, so they are able to keep their eyes on. This could be placed at their changing table or the bed. Make them aware that they’re getting massages while you wash them.
Begin slowly
Lay your baby on their backs and begin slowly massaging every body area. The touch should be gentle initially.
Spend time massaging every part of their body beginning with the head, and then moving gradually towards their feet. There is no set moment for massage. Each massage should last for as long as both of you and your baby taking pleasure in it.
It is also possible to place your baby’s belly for a brief massage however some babies might dislike lying on their stomachs for long.
Repeat it over and over
When you feel that both of your child are having fun with the massage, keep going by repeating the motions of rubbing beginning at their head, and then going down towards their feet.
Keep talking
Always be sure to communicate with your baby during massage. Repetition their name along with the words “relax” to help them to calm down.
You can also tell them a story or sing a nursery rhyme while moving about your body.
Oil is not required
Some parents find the oil to be to be messy, whereas others utilize it to ease skin irritation caused by massaging. If you choose to apply oil, be sure to purchase a product that’s not non-toxic and non-toxic since your baby could be exposed to it in their mouths.
Test your oil using a tiny dab onto a piece of skin. Verify whether your baby experiences a reaction. This is crucial for babies who have allergic skin conditions or sensitivities.
The takeaway
Massages for babies are a great and relaxing treatment that soothes your baby and helps bonding time. But, massages don’t come easily to all parents. Don’t get discouraged if the baby’s massage isn’t working out initially.
You and your baby might require at least a couple of times before getting the right massage. Each time you practice, you’re building an intimate, loving connection with your child. Continue to practice even if you can’t grasp the concept of massages for babies at first. Your baby will be grateful.
