All You Need to Know about Massaging Your Newborn

Massaging newborn babies is essential for babies and their parents. It helps build a strong bond between the child and the parent. Babies' sense of touch is the most developed during infancy. When they cannot communicate through words, a parent's gentle touch helps them feel nurtured and protected. Establishing a routine to massage newborns can help them relax and also strengthen their muscles. It is a magical and therapeutic tool that can put the baby into an undisturbed, deep sleep.

The Benefits of Massaging Newborns

• Research indicates that a baby's psychological and social development improves with regular massages.
• It increases the oxytocin levels in babies, decreasing stress and moodiness.
• It gets rid of sore or stiff muscles and boosts limb movement.
• It helps improve blood circulation.
• It develops the baby's nervous system and motor skills.

How to Massage a Newborn

The best time to massage a newborn depends on the baby's sleep cycle and feeding patterns. Preparing the baby for the massage is just as important - set a schedule for the massage at a fixed time every day so that the baby knows to expect it and cooperates. If your baby is engrossed in games, or irritated by touch, do not disturb him/her. Massages can help when a baby experiences trouble sleeping or is in a cranky, grumpy mood.

• Place the baby on a comfortable, flat surface. Make sure the room’s temperature is ideal for the baby. Occupy a room that is not too noisy and dim the lights.

• Belly: To start, lightly massage the newborn's belly insoft, circular motions. Applygentle pressurestarting from the base of the rib cage. Followa clockwise motion that naturally follows the path of digestion.

• Legs and feet: Slowly lift one of the legs and lightly tap it starting at the upper thigh.Stroke downwards, gently pressing the leg as you go. On reaching the baby's ankle, follow the same motion in an upward stroke. Rub the baby's feet using light pressure with your thumbs, and make sure touncurl their toes.

• Chest: Place both arms at the center and stroke outwards like the wings of a butterfly. Make sure to use gentle motions.

• Arms: Roll the baby's arms between your hands orform a ringusing your index finger and thumb. Then, starting from the shoulder, gently move towards the baby's wrist. While massaging the arms,take care of the baby's elbows and wrists. Apply delicate pressure on these areas.

• Head and face: Gently massage the baby's scalp with your fingertips, like you would while shampooing his/her hair. Massage the ears with your thumbs and index finger in a fixed motion.Don't pull or push their cheeks in any manner. Instead, try to make them smile with your fingers and gestures. Sing to them if they find that soothing.

Since your toddler can’t yet speak, it is essential to understand his/her body language and unspoken signs. Make sure the massage techniques are accurate.

Usage of Oils to Massage Your Newborn:

Using massage oils heightens and amplifies the effects of a massage and also helps your baby sleep better. However, while using massage oils, choose an edible, unscented one, preferably one that's homemade or organic. Massages can be a great time for babies to relax after a day filled with fun and activity. It is a moment for them to stop, breathe, and bond. It is just as vital for them as it is for adults.