Baby massage has been practiced in many cultures for thousands of years, and research shows many benefits.
Through massage, you can gain increased awareness of how your baby communicates and ideas on ways to support your baby in their first few months. You and your baby will discover what is best for you both. It is important to be mindful that massage is something you do with, rather than to your baby.
Massaging Your Newborn
Touch is a powerful way to communicate your love to your baby. In the first few weeks, use slow and positive strokes, not spending too much time on one area. Newborn babies may find their senses over-stimulated and most will seek solace in the arms of their parents for the first few weeks and some may just want a gentle stroke down their backs, over their clothes.
Resting Hands
If your baby says ‘yes’ to massage, begin with a resting hand. This resting hand technique is used before massaging any body area. It can also be used when your baby needs a break during the massage. This is a good way for your baby to feel secure and enjoy touch.
Legs
Check you have enough oil on your hands before you start. Begin on the legs with a newborn because it is an area which is usually accepted by babies. Downward strokes are more relaxing.
Legs - MilkingWith one hand, gently hold your baby’s ankle. Place your other hand at the top of your baby’s thigh, molding it around the leg, then slide it to the ankle. Repeat with firm yet gentle rhythmic strokes, one hand after the other.
Feet
Babies usually love having their feet massaged. Watch your baby’s reactions in case of sensitivity. A little foot massage can have a positive effect on the whole body.
Gently squeeze and roll each toe between your thumb and index finger. Using alternate thumbs stroke the top of the foot from toes to the ankle. Repeat several times.
Tummy
When baby’s umbilical cord is healed, gentle massage on the tummy can help with digestion and tummy troubles.
Start by making contact with your baby’s tummy with a reassuring relaxed hand. If your baby is happy, make gentle paddling strokes, with one hand following the other.
Back
Skin-to-skin contact can enhance the bonding experience between baby, mum and dad.
Holding the baby close to your chest, massage your baby’s back beginning at the neck, swooping down to their bottom.
These massage strokes are based on INFANT MASSAGE: A Handbook for Loving Parents by Vimala McClure, the founder of the IAIM.
The IAIM is a non-profit organization and does not endorse any product.
Postnatal Depression and Using Touch to Communicate and Bond
After the birth of their baby, many mothers and some fathers may suffer from some form of depression. ‘Baby Blues’ is common and can leave mum feeling elated one moment and very emotional the next. This usually disappears after a few days. Depression is a more serious and longer lasting condition and can show signs anytime from straight after the baby’s birth or later.
Research into postnatal depression shows that massage can enhance parent and baby attachment, through encouraging eye contact, skin contact, voice and sensitive interaction.
Join a Baby Massage Group
It is recommended that you learn more from someone with a qualification in infant massage to gain the full benefit. Going to a baby massage group is an ideal way to learn to massage your baby safely.
The International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) has been instructing parents around the world for over 25 years. For more information, go to www.iaim.org.au(link is external).
These massage strokes are based on
INFANT MASSAGE: A Handbook for Loving Parents by Vimala McClure, the founder of the IAIM.The IAIM is a non-profit organization and does not endorse any product.
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