A - Z Guide

What is Baby Massage?

Baby Massage (also referred to as Infant Massage) is usually taught to new mothers and/or fathers as a way of bonding with their newborn and for encouraging infant health. Many cultures have used massage as part of baby care for hundreds of years, and research shows it can have many benefits. Massage enables you to learn about and respond to your baby's body language. It is also a wonderful way to make your baby feel safe and secure by showing that he or she is loved and cared for. It is very important to remember that massage is something you do with, rather than to, your baby. It incorporates nurturing touch, massage, and reflexology in a loving, fun, one-on-one interaction. A study at the University of Miami showed that infants who received 15 minutes of baby massage a day gained weight 47% faster and demonstrated other physical and neurological benefits.

What are the benefits of Baby Massage?

Massage is also a popular option for coping with colic, a problem normally only encountered in babies less than 3-4 months old. If you have any concerns about massaging your baby - and especially if your baby is sick - you should consult an appropriate health professional first. It may also be useful to help them sleep through the night and cry less by giving them a gentle massage.

What happens at a Baby Massage Class ?

Using a life-size doll, the therapist sits alongside the mother or father and teaches them how to gently massage their young baby. This is also believed to improve confidence (especially in new parents), and relieve stress and tension in the baby.

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If you are interested in Baby Massage you may also want to see Baby Massage Courses, Baby Yoga, Bonding and Relaxation Techniques, Postnatal Exercise and Postnatal Yoga.