27 Dec 2015 | 4 min Read
Baby Chakra
Author | 501 Articles
Medically reviewed by
Dr Rahul Jaiswal
As a new parent, one of the most important things is to bond with your baby and what better way than a nice, soothing massage? But how to massage a baby? Which strokes are too hard for her or which oils to use? To help you with some of these answers, we have put together a few must-knows of baby massage.
1. Massages use the baby’s first sensory stimulation, touch, which starts in the womb and becomes a good connection point with the mother!
2. Baby massage helps soothe an irritated and crying baby.
3. Aids any digestion problems, relieves gas and constipation.
4. Helps put the infant to more profound and longer sleep! So if you have a baby who doesn’t sleep well or long enough, massage is a must-do!
5. Massages often use oil to reduce friction and enhance the sense of smell in the infant.
6. As infant massage, it is the best time for babies to make eye contact, which is one of the earliest forms of communication with their caregivers. It also gives a chance to the parent to talk to the baby in peace.
7. It helps you in understanding your baby and how they communicate. You learn to read their likes, dislikes and emotions.
You can begin massaging your baby after the first few weeks after birth. Keep an eye on your baby’s emotions, though. When you’re ready to massage your baby, it should be quiet. Never use a massage method that makes your infant feel uncomfortable.
1. Choose a place that is comfortable, warm and not too bright. It can be the changing table, your bed (put a towel underneath to avoid oil stains on your comforter), even on the rug (use a towel there too).
2. Don’t refrain from adding some calming music or talking and singing to your baby.
3. Wash your hands and remove jewellery.
4. If you plan to use baby oil for massage, try out Nourishing Baby Body Massage Oil which is USDA Certified and crafted with all-natural ingredients without any artificial fragrances. It has a unique blend of organic and 100% natural oils like Moringa that will deeply nourish and protect your baby’s skin. It also has excellent soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that strengthen the baby’s skin barrier. To test the oil, use it on a small spot first and wait a day to ensure no irritation.
5. Massages are best done when your baby is awake and alert and not when she is hungry, too full, sleepy or unwell.
6. Pay attention to your baby’s cues; let them be if they’re not in the mood. You don’t always have to finish a full body massage; sometimes, a good foot rub is all your baby needs.
7. Don’t be overpowering or apply too much pressure, be gentle always.
The oil you use plays a very important role in baby massage.
1. It helps soothe tired limbs and muscles and also keeps your young one’s skin nourished and supple. Coconut oil, for example, is great for sensitive skin and common skin problems like eczema, rashes, patchy skin, dermatitis and cradle cap.
2. Always opt for good brands and carry out an allergy check on a spot before you start using it regularly.
Takeaway
Baby massages are a great, relaxing therapy that relaxes your baby and encourages your bond. Some parents feel comfortable massaging their children. If massaging your kid doesn’t seem to help at first, don’t give up.
Happy massaging!
Related Articles:
Massage Routine Essentials: Massage time means love time where you strengthen your bond with your baby! So here we bring you some best massage routine essentials which you shouldn’t skip on your baby. Check them out!
Why Massage Your Baby: Take our infant massage session and spoil your child with the indulgence of the touch!! Know why massaging your baby is important-here!
Best Massage Oils For Baby: Here is your guide to the best massage oils for babies.
Banner Image Source: baby-goo-roo-production.s3.amazonaws.com
A
Suggestions offered by doctors on BabyChakra are of advisory nature i.e., for educational and informational purposes only. Content posted on, created for, or compiled by BabyChakra is not intended or designed to replace your doctor's independent judgment about any symptom, condition, or the appropriateness or risks of a procedure or treatment for a given person.