Massage has been an essential part of maternal care for centuries, offering benefits for both baby and parent.
As one of the five senses, touch is critical to newborns. Skin-to-skin contact is so important that practices like “kangaroo care” (placing premature babies on the chest of a parent under a blanket) have been shown to decrease mortality rates, improve oxygen levels, and support weight gain.
Baby massage provides essential skin-to-skin contact, strengthening the bond between parent and baby while also promoting brain development. The gentle, loving touch helps babies become aware of new sensations and builds their understanding of their body.
Benefits of Baby Massage
Baby massage is said to:
- Promote better sleep patterns
- Relieve colic and gas discomfort
- Reduce stress hormones
- Aid digestion
- Improve blood circulation
- Boost immune function
- Enhance nervous system development
How to Do Baby Massage
Choosing an Oil:
Unfragranced, simple oils like almond or coconut oil are great for baby massage and can help with dry skin. Avoid fragranced oils or lotions that may irritate sensitive skin.
Setting Up:
- Choose a warm, quiet room free from distractions.
- Lay your baby on a towel or soft blanket.
- Warm your hands and rub the oil or lotion between your palms before touching your baby.
- Soft music can be soothing, or simply hum or sing to your baby. Your voice is a comforting sound that helps them relax.
Techniques to Try
There’s no right or wrong way to massage your baby—follow your instincts and watch how your baby reacts. Here are some techniques to get you started:
- Alternate between light strokes and firmer squeezes.
- Blow gently on their feet, palms, or tummy to create playful sensations.
- Use clockwise movements to massage the stomach and aid digestion.
- Gently pinch or roll the skin over the buttocks.
- Use long, flowing strokes from head to toes for full-body relaxation.
- Massage the scalp gently in circular motions.
- Start with whole-body strokes, then focus on smaller areas like hands, fingers, feet, and toes.
- Gently squeeze the thighs and upper arms.
Creating Connection
The most important part of baby massage is creating a calm, distraction-free environment where you can focus entirely on your baby. Smile, talk, and maintain eye contact during the massage. These interactions build trust and emotional connection, leaving both you and your baby feeling relaxed and calm.
Safety Tips
- Avoid massage when baby is upset or unwell: Choose a time when they are content and alert.
- Skip the massage after feeding: Wait at least 30 minutes to avoid discomfort.
- Watch for signs: If your baby seems uncomfortable or upset, adjust your touch or stop the massage.
Baby massage is more than a soothing activity—it’s a way to bond deeply with your baby while supporting their development. With each gentle stroke, you’re building trust, promoting relaxation, and creating precious memories. Enjoy every moment.
PUBLISHED WITH THE PERMISSION OF PREGNANCY BUMP&BABY, AOTEAROA’S ONLY DEDICATED PREGNANCY AND NEW BABY MAGAZINE. PUBLISHED TWICE PER YEAR WITH VALUABLE INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR GROWING BUMP, ALONG WITH PREGNANCY PACKS AVAILABLE WITH FULL SIZED PRODUCTS, SAMPLES AND VOUCHERS. ALL CURRENT AND BACK ISSUES ALSO AVAILABLE AS A DIGITAL COPY.
