Massages for babies are nothing new. There is a long history of baby massage. The first evidence of baby massage may be traced back to the ancient Indian civilization. As early as Ayurvedic medicine, massages were used as a technique to increase circulation, remove toxins, improve digestive function, and enhance general well-being.
Even if you don’t require baby massage oil, utilising massage oil may make the experience more joyful and minimise the friction between skin. Babies, both preterm and full-term, acquired more weight when coconut oil was used instead of mineral oil, according to research. Another study from the University of Manchester discovered that olive oil and sunflower oil tended to weaken the skin barrier function of babies during massages. Skin disorders including newborn eczema were more common in babies who were rubbed with these oils.
The types of baby massage
Massage of the Legs
Begin at the knee and work your way down to the ankle by wrapping your hands around your baby’s leg gently but firmly. Repeat this a few times on each leg, then switch to the other one.
Massage of the Stomach
Aim towards your baby’s navel with your hands. Rub her stomach in a clockwise circle with your fingers, being sure to press down firmly yet softly. Repeat.
Massages for the arms
Gently move your baby’s arm between your palms, beginning at the shoulder and working down to the wrist. Afterwards, move to the other arm and repeat.
Massage of the neck
One hand should be used to support the head and upper body of your newborn. To do this, place both your thumb and first two fingers on one side of her neck. Rub your baby’s neck gently in a circular motion with your fingers. You may do this many times.
Massage for Colic Relief
Begin by massaging the baby’s tummy. After 30 seconds of holding his legs up to his torso, release. Repeat the process many times. To aid in the discharge of trapped gas, rub your baby’s abdomen with the edge of one hand in a rhythmic manner. Continue if necessary.
When is it okay to massage your baby?
Age
Always begin baby massage as soon as he or she is born. Massage of the vernix on the day of your baby’s birth may even be his first baby massage. You’ll need to be particularly cautious while applying oils on a baby’s delicate skin if you’re massaging him.
Time
The way your baby reacts to massage may vary depending on what time of day you give it to him. Refrain from rubbing the infant for at least 15 minutes after the last feeding.
Baby massage at the following times is recommended
- 45 minutes after feeding
- When the baby is calm
- Just before going to sleep
- After changing a child’s diaper.
The advantages of baby massage
Jaundice risk may be reduced by baby massage
A number of recent studies have shown that baby massage may also lower bilirubin levels, the component in blood that causes jaundice, and improve the frequency of bowel movement, which helps eliminate excess bilirubin from the body, as well as constipation.
Massage for babies decreases their stress levels
Touch releases endorphins, which in turn lowers cortisol. Security and comfort in the baby’s environment are enhanced, and this results in a more balanced state of well-being for the person.
Massage for babies helps them sleep better
Baby massage has been shown to reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase melatonin synthesis, according to a study by the University of Warwick. Babies who are massaged before bedtime are more likely to fall asleep quickly and remain asleep longer.
Gas or constipation may be eased by massaging a baby
Babies can’t burp on their own because of a weak sphincter in their oesophagus. As a result, they experience bloating and other abdominal pain as a result of gas buildup. That stress may be alleviated with a baby massage. You have the potential to do miracles for your kid with just a few soft strokes, whether you’re trying to lull him to sleep or alleviating his gassy tummy.
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