Infant massage is a gentle and smooth massage designed for babies, which can be offered by parents or professional massage therapists. It fosters a strong bond between child and parent, soothes aches and pains, and can be used to calm babies. The pressure used is extremely light, and a variety of strokes can be used. The best time for infant massage varies, and there is no need to use massage oil or cream.
Infant massage is a style of massage designed for use on infants. As such, it is extremely gentle and very smooth, to accommodate children who may be feeling restless or nervous. Both parents and professional massage therapists can offer infant massages; Some parents like to take classes to learn some massages and techniques to use on their babies. Such classes are often readily available from natural childbirth organizations, massage schools, and organizations that offer parenting classes.
There are a number of benefits to infant massage. One of the most important is that it fosters a strong bond between child and parent, creating a child who can feel happier and more secure. Touch is very important to babies and toddlers, and focused, gentle, and loving touch can be very beneficial to physical and emotional health. As the largest organ in the body, the skin provides many points of stimulation and infant massage can be used to calm babies while also establishing communication. Massage can also soothe some of the gas and other minor aches and pains experienced by many babies.
The pressure used in infant massage is extremely light. The best way to measure blood pressure is to test it on yourself; close your eyes and gently rub your eyelids. At the point where you start to feel discomfort and pressure, you are using too much pressure for infant massage. A variety of strokes can also be used in infant massage, including gentle, flowing strokes, circular motions, and gentle pressure on certain points.
The best time to have infant massage varies according to the baby. Parents should choose a time when the baby will feel most relaxed and when the parent can focus on the massage for about half an hour. The child should be laid out naked on a soft surface and covered with a light sheet. Massage generally works from head to toe and vice versa, but parents shouldn’t stick to a particular routine or system, especially if the baby seems restless or wants to change positions. During an infant massage session, many babies become extremely calm and highly engaged, and parents who are attuned to their child may notice that the child prefers to work in some areas over others.
There is no need to use massage oil or cream in infant massage, although many people do. The advantage of the oil is that it moisturizes the baby’s body while also reducing friction, making the massage more delicate. If using oil or cream, warm a drop in your hands by rubbing them vigorously before applying to your child’s body, as cold oil will be unpleasant.
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