Patter of Tiny Feet

Baby Massage

"Infant massage is not a fad. It is an ancient art that connects you deeply with the person who is your baby."

Vimala McClure

What is baby massage?

Baby massage has been extensively practised by mothers for centuries in many Indian, Asian and African cultures to nurture and aid development for the baby. Positive touch and stroking is now recognised by more Western countries as part of daily childcare due to the benefits it offers mothers and babies including those born prematurely or have additional health needs.

Baby massage is the rhythmic stroking of your baby's body using your hands. As part of a massage routine, you may stroke the face, head, back, chest or abdomen and later your baby's legs, feet or toes, or their arms, hands, or fingers. Baby massage uses traditional techniques from Swedish and Indian style massage and yogic and reflexology principles to underpin the skills used.

Massage can be given without oil in some instances. Instructors recommend high quality, organic, cold pressed and fragrance-free oils are most suitable for use with soothing massage strokes, whilst verbal and non-verbal interactions take place throughout the session between mother and baby.

What are the benefits for mothers and babies?

For mothers:

  • Feeling closer to your baby

  • Gaining a deeper understanding of your baby’s behaviour, crying and body language

  • Providing an enjoyable opportunity to spend one-to-one time with your baby

  • Feeling the relaxing effects of giving your baby a massage,

  • Increases confidence in your ability to care for and nurture your baby

  • Learning a life-long parenting skill

Research has suggested that new mothers become more confident in handling their infants and better at recognising their needs. The studies report improved positive interaction and communication with the baby. Baby massage is a great way for partners, family members and carers to bond with every baby.

For your baby:

  • Helping your baby to feel securely attached

  • Helping your baby to feel more loved, valued and respected

  • Reduced crying and emotional distress

  • Increased levels of relaxation and longer sleep

  • Development of body awareness and coordination

  • Relief from wind, colic, constipation and teething discomfort

Massage is good for condition of the skin, circulation and encouraging blood supply to the muscles and tissue of the whole of the baby’s body. Baby massage: encourages joint mobility and flexibility; encourages weight gain; improves digestion and can prevent/help with wind, colic and constipation. It stimulates endorphins – the body’s natural pain killers. Massage is usually calming and relaxing and research reports that it improves sleep patterns.

Patter of Tiny Feet

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