How To Massage

The technique of massaging the baby is quite simple. In fact, it is instinctive to some mothers and for others; it is not difficult to learn the technique. Baby massage has been practised for generations, in many different countries. Skin contact makes your baby feel safe and secure and is a simple way of showing affection. There are various ways to do the massage, none of them right or wrong unless your baby indicates them to be so. Use strokes with imagination, keeping in mind the muscular structure of the body. The guidelines given here are basic, you can alter them to suit your individual needs in tandem with that of your baby.

How do you Start?

Choose a moment, in which you and your child are relaxed and calm. A half hour after the baby has eaten is recommended.

Be sure that the room temperature is warm (78 degrees Fahrenheit). Undress the baby completely, if the weather is cold or, humid cover the areas of the baby's body that are not being massaged.

Put the baby on a soft surface, so your baby will feel comfortable and secure. Keep some little pillows handy.

It is a good idea to put some cream on your hands and rub them together so they will be soft and warm. This is especially important, when the weather is cold. You wouldn't want to be touched by ice-cold hands on your bare body, nor would your baby.

Basically, the massage flows from the head to the toes. With soft and gentle touches you will work on the head, face, shoulders, arms, chest, stomach and legs. But a lot of people go from the feet upwards.

While you massage your baby, look tenderly at him/her. Doing this you stimulate all the senses of the baby and establish a more intense visual and tactile communication.

Feel free to speak to your baby because that completes the bonding process. Many mothers use the massage time to baby talk with, their infant, conveying their love and concern for the baby's comfort or, discomfort. Do not inhibit yourself or, get distracted. It is an emotional and physical bonding that your are targeting.

Remember that your touches should be tender, so do not make mechanical motions. Try to be flexible by not keeping a rigid routine.

If the baby wants to change position let him do so. Do not force your baby to hold on to a single position, you can go back to these areas later on.

You could start by massaging the legs and feet, as this is the least vulnerable area. If you are unsure about the technique and are doing it for the first time, it is always a good idea to start with the foot because you can't go wrong. As you move upwards, you will become more confident and sure.

Massage each leg in turn using gentle strokes from hip to ankle. Massage the foot with the thumb, stroking heel to toe.