Baby massage is a type of therapy that involves gently massaging a baby's body with the hands.
Baby massage is generally considered safe for all healthy babies, and it can be done from birth until the child is old enough to prefer not to be massaged. It is typically done for a few minutes at a time, a few times per week. Some parents choose to learn baby massage techniques from a certified instructor, while others may prefer to learn through books, videos, or online resources.
Benefits of baby massage
Baby massage has many benefits for both the baby and the parent or caregiver, including promoting relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, and aiding in the bonding process between parent and child.Some of the benefits include:
- Promotes relaxation: Massaging a baby can help to calm and soothe them, making them feel more relaxed and content.
- Increases bonding: Massaging a baby can help to increase the bond between the parent or caregiver and the baby.
- Improves sleep: Massaging a baby before bedtime can help to improve their sleep patterns and promote longer, deeper sleep.
- Enhances digestion: Massaging a baby's tummy can help to relieve gas and improve digestion.
- Boosts immune system: Massaging a baby can help to boost the immune system and increase the production of white blood cells.
- Enhances cognitive development: Massaging a baby can help to stimulate the brain, which can enhance cognitive development and improve motor skills.
- Alleviates pain: Massaging a baby can help to alleviate pain associated with colic, teething, and constipation.
- Helps premature babies: Massaging premature babies can help to promote weight gain and improve overall development.
It's worth mentioning that massaging should be done with a gentle touch, and if the baby is uncomfortable with it, it's best to stop.
How to massage a baby properly
There are many different techniques and styles of baby massage, and it is typically done using a combination of strokes, such as rubbing, kneading, and tapping, along with gentle stretches. Massage oils, such as baby oil or a natural oil like coconut or almond oil, may be used to help the hands glide smoothly over the baby's skin.
To massage a baby properly, follow these steps:
- Room temperature: make sure the room is warm and the baby is undressed to their diaper/nappy.
- Use a small amount of baby oil or lotion (here we used QV Baby Moisturising Cream Pump in Australia) to help the baby's skin glide smoothly during the massage.
- Begin by gently stroking the baby's forehead and head with the pads of your fingers.
- Move down to the baby's face and massage in small circles around the cheeks, chin, and jaw.
- Gently massage the baby's chest, tummy, and legs.
- Finish by stroking the baby's arms and hands.
- Always be mindful of the baby's reactions and stop the massage if the baby becomes fussy or uncomfortable.
It's important to note that premature or sick babies should only be massaged under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
