HOW TO MASSAGE YOUR BABY

Baby massage can be a wonderful experience for both you and your baby. It is a chance for just the two of you to have a quiet, bonding moment. It can be relaxing for both mum and baby.

Here we explain what baby massage is, what the benefits are and how to do it safely.

What is baby massage?

Baby massage involves gently stroking each part of your baby’s body in turn, in a calm, reassuring, rhythmic way. It’s a way of having some regular special time alone with your baby and can be very soothing for both of you.

In many parts of the world, baby massage is a traditional practice. In Western countries it was first introduced about 30 years ago for premature babies in neonatal intensive care units. Nowadays, it’s widespread here – you can probably find a baby massage class near you.

What are the benefits of baby massage?

Massaging your baby is a great way to show your baby they are loved and help them to feel secure.

 Although there’s not much clear evidence about the benefits of baby massage, many people believe it can:

• Help you to bond and interact with your baby
• Encourage your baby to relax and sleep
• Soothe your baby if they are suffering from colic
• Help other members of the family to bond with your baby
  

What do I need before beginning the massage?

 

It’s important to create the right atmosphere before you begin massaging your baby. Make sure the room is warm and free of draughts and there’s nothing to distract you both. If you like, put on some quiet, soothing background music.

Choose a comfortable place to sit, with your baby lying safely in front of you. Your baby can be completely naked, or just have a nappy on.

Take off any sharp or spiky rings, and make sure your hands are warm. If you are using oil or lotion for the massage, rub some into your hands (rather than putting it directly onto your baby’s skin).

It’s recommended not to use oils or lotions on a baby’s sensitive skin in the first month of life. After this you may want to start to practise baby massage yourself or join a baby massage class. Oils that can be used include vegetable oils and cold-pressed oil. Petroleum-based ointments can be used for massage especially if your baby has dry skin. Avoid scented oils or lotions and those made from nuts. Make sure your baby is not allergic to the oil by dabbing a little on a small area of skin and leaving for 30 minutes to make sure your baby does not have a reaction.

When is the best time to massage your baby?

Choose a time when your baby is between feeds so they won't be too hungry or too full. It’s best if your baby is awake but settled. It’s up to you how often you do it.

Why not make it part of your baby’s bedtime routine, perhaps after a bath and before the last feed of the day? This will help them wind down and become ready for sleep.

 

How to massage your baby

Here is your step by step guide to massaging your baby…

Step 1.

Using a slow, gentle but firm touch, start by massaging your baby’s feet. Stroke from the heel to the toe and then concentrate on each toe individually, spreading them out and giving each a gentle pull.

Step 2

Move to your baby’s legs, stroking down each leg and gently straightening them out. Hold your baby’s knees and gently push them up towards their tummy. This move will be helpful if your baby has trapped wind or is constipated.

Step 3

Place your hands gently on your baby’s chest. Stroke out towards their shoulders, then gently down each arm towards the wrists. Gently stretch out your baby’s arms. Spread your baby’s hands, massaging the palm and gently massaging each finger one by one. If oil or lotion gets on your baby’s hands, wipe them clean before they put them in their mouth.

Step 4.

Gently massage your baby’s tummy. Use clockwise strokes in a circular motion with one or both hands.

Step 5

Using just your fingertips, massage your baby’s face. Stroke from the middle of the forehead out round the eyes and down and in towards the cheeks. Lightly massage the crown of your baby’s head using a circular motion.

Step 6

If your baby is relaxed, and is happy to be on their front, turn them over to massage their back. Use long slow strokes from head to toe. For each leg, lift the heel and gently stretch it up towards your baby’s bottom.

Usually a baby massage lasts for between 10 and 30 minutes. If your baby seems uncomfortable or unhappy it’s best to stop the massage and just pick them up for a cuddle instead. You can try another time when your baby may enjoy it more.

A baby massage class can help you develop a routine that works for you and your baby.