Baby and Parenting

The therapeutic effects of massage on adults have been established for many years, but it is only recently that people have realized that children also benefit enormously from massage techniques. In other parts of the world such as Africa, Asia and South America, women have been massaging their babies for hundreds of years. The practice is now becoming recognized in the West and in the UK today it is even possible to have massage services offered for your baby under the NHS (National Health Service).

Baby massage seems to offer a practical solution to problems with crying, sleeping, feeding and behaviour. Through massaging their babies, first time parents can gain confidence in handling them. Parents who used massage to soothe and calm their babies reported their children seemed happier, calmer, cried less and slept better. In the case of mothers suffering from postnatal depression there is growing research evidence that infant baby massage helps to establish the relationship between them and their babies.

There are many great books and guides for mother looking to learn baby massage and even baby massage courses run in many areas. It is worth bearing in mind however, that apart from a few safety essentials, there is no right or wrong way to massage your child. It is more about being together and enjoying the physical and emotional closeness of mother and baby.

Make sure the room is warm enough and the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. Note, if you are feeling stressed or anxious your baby will pick up on this so best to leave the massage for another time. There are no hard and fast rules in terms of the best time to massage your baby, but many mothers enjoy massaging their baby’s after bath time. Whilst massaging try and find a position where you can keep your back straight at all times.

The main safety essentials are to make sure you remove any jewellery that may damage babies sensitive skin (also ensure fingernails are trimmed). Use a hypo-allergenic oil or a natural oil to avoid allergic reactions. Do not use aromatherapy (essential) oils unless directed by a trained aromatherapist. You can check the suitability of oil by doing a small patch test, place a small amount of oil on the inside of your baby’s wrist and leave for 12-24 hours, paying special attention for the first 30 minutes in case of severe reaction. Finally oil can make the baby slippery so take special car when lifting after massage.

As always if you have any doubt as to whether or not to massage your child, seek advice from your doctor or a paediatrician.

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