I often hear from parents that they want to learn natural and cost-effective methods to soothe their
- Reduces Stress. Studies have shown that when you massage your baby levels of oxytocin increase and cortisol decrease for you and your baby. It also helps to reduce maternal depression.
- Boosts the Immune System. Certain massages stimulate your baby’s lymph node to help fight off illnesses. Always check in with your doctor first.
- Read your Baby’s Cues. You will quickly know when your baby is ready for a massage and which massage they enjoy. Dads feel included when they know how to meet their baby’s needs.
- Beneficial for a Baby with Special Needs. A parent who is attuned to the look and feel of the baby’s body at all times will more likely be able to detect issues in the early stages. Before beginning with a massage routine with your baby, check with the doctor and/or physical therapist.
- Relieves Teething. Parents have shared they’ve tried everything, but nothing really worked until infant massage. This is natural and safe solution.
- Skin Stimulation. Essential for adequate organic and psychological development. Positive touch is the first language a baby learns. The massage regulates your baby’s breathing and blood circulation. Touching and holding your baby is important to build a secure attachment.
- Develop Better Sleep Routine. Certain massage strokes boost the sleep hormone, Melatonin. This will help your baby fall asleep faster and longer. Sleep is important for your baby’s development and also for parents.
- Relieves gas, constipation
and colic. When stimulating the stomach your able to help your baby relieve any discomforts and regulates your baby’s digestive system. Babies who are constipated may experienceblowout s. Be sure to have extra diapers and clothes.
- Include the Entire Family. With older siblings, it’s wonderful to include them during the massage. Your older child will feel connected and excited to be helping out. With my previous blog A father’s Loving Touch Through Infant Massage will provide more benefits for dads. Check it out!
- Promotes Language Development. During the massage, you will talk and sing to your baby to boost language development. Your baby creates a connection in their brain with your expressions, sounds and words you use. Your baby will look at you, smile or make sounds to communicate they’re ready for their massage experience with you.
It’s important to have a Certified Infant Massage Instructor help you learn these beneficial massages. Check out my schedule or contact me for more information.
McClure, Vimala. Infant Massage: A Handbook For Loving Parents. Third Revised Edition, Bantam Books, 2000.