Baby Massage Tips

Answer 1

Baby massage has been practiced all over the world for countless generations. Practiced daily, infant massage is a wonderful way for parents to bond physically and emotionally with their babies. In addition, baby massage has been shown to be effective at helping to soothe an infant that is sick, colicky or otherwise uncomfortable.

Preparation for Safe and Effective Baby Massage

Carefully warm a non-irritating massage oil or ordinary baby oil in a plastic container. Test a small amount of warm oil on the inside of your wrist to check the temperature. If your child is a newborn or has sensitive skin, pediatricians recommend that you perform a test on a small area of the baby's skin and wait for 24 hours before proceeding. If irritation occurs, choose a more mild type of oil.

Begin your baby's first massage session when he is alert and in a pleasant mood. It is best to avoid massage directly after a meal, as pressure on the abdomen or chest may cause discomfort when his belly is full. Undress your baby, leaving only his diaper, and place him face-up on a towel or soft blanket.

Massaging Baby's Belly for Gas and Colic Relief

Softly rub a small amount of oil into your baby's belly, always moving your hand in a clockwise motion. This helps alleviate the pain associated with constipation and gas in the baby's stomach and intestines. Place your hand, pinky edge down, on your baby's abdomen. Beginning at the base of your baby's rib cage, gently but firmly pass your hand down toward his diaper. Repeat this motion with each hand, one after the other. Another proven element of baby massage involves the cycling of the baby's legs upward toward his abdomen. Hold his feet and knees together and gently press up, pushing slightly to the right and repeating. This helps expel excess gas that may cause discomfort.

Bedtime Baby Massage for Better Sleep

If your baby is fussy and tired but refuses to sleep, infant massage can help him to relax before bedtime. Hold your baby's head with both of your hands and gently massage his scalp with the tips of your fingers in tight, circular motions. Be careful to avoid the soft spot on the top of his head. Afterward, take each of your baby's ears between your thumb and forefinger and rub gently, working out from the base to the ends of the lobes. Repeat until your baby is calm and continue with his normal bedtime routine.

Baby massage can be used on healthy children from the first week of birth until early childhood. Enjoy daily baby massage with your infant and see more benefits over time.