Like adults, babies get stressed out too and a good massage not only help sooth their muscles but also make them feel loved all the more. Infant massage is also based on the principle of adult yoga-breathing, stretching, and relaxation.
Infant massage helps your baby stretch and move for him to discover his abilities and what his body can do. Infant massage is an ancient baby care practice that is recently proven to provide a lot of benefits.
- Infant massages help strengthen joints and muscles.
- Probably the most important benefit of infant massage is its capacity to help baby sleep- a favorite among parents. Since infant massage can assist in stress reduction for babies, it relaxes them and encourages longer sleep, which is something every member of the family can benefit from.
- It helps relieve baby pains such as teething, colic, and constipation. This is a great relief for both you and your baby. It makes him less grumpy because of the pain he might experience.
- One of the best benefits of infant massage is the connection and bond it builds between the two of you. It connects both of you physically and emotionally.
- Infant massage is relaxing for the two of you and also helps in the growth and development of your baby.
- When giving your baby a massage, keep in mind that his skin is very soft so extra care should be done.
- Make sure that all the things you need are ready and in place before you start the massage (vegetable oil, tissue, clean diapers, and clothes).
- Take off all the jewelry you are wearing such as bracelet and rings. Long nails are also a no-no as these can accidentally hurt your baby.
- Make sure that your palms are warm. Rub only half a teaspoon of oil at a time on your palm so that they easily glides on your baby’ body. Just add more oil later if needed.
- Use smooth, tender but firm strokes with your palm or fingers. Light circular movements on chest and stomach while stroking across shoulders, and upward movements on the back and downward movement on the arms and legs are the best.
- Remember not to put too much pressure on your baby’s fragile body. Also, avoid the spine area.
Infant massage is one of the perfect ways to show love and affection towards your baby. It promotes a healthy well being for your baby and one of the natural ways to cure any discomforts he might be feeling. Simple strokes can go a long way in making your baby feel comfortable.
