Most mothers instinctively lovingly massage their babies. Perhaps it was by understanding this and observing the effect upon the infant that the idea of infant massage was born. Actually infant massage has been in practice for many years. But recently its popularity has taken off worldwide. It should really come as no surprise since both babies and parents enjoy the benefits. Let's take a look at some of the benefits of infant massage below:
Infant Massage Facilitates Bonding
Touch between mother and baby is extremely important during the early months in order to develop the bond that will help the baby thrive and grow into a happy well adjusted child. The mother and father are able to provide gentle nurturing touches which the baby associates with love and being cared for. Infant massage helps the baby and parents get to know one another and spend quiet quality time together, communicating through touch.
Infant Massage Relaxes the Infant
A newborn baby's life is pretty stressful when you think about it. He gets hungry and cold and the only way he can let anyone know he needs attention is to yell for it. Infant massage can help relax a stressed out baby that has just had too much activity or is suffering from stomach upsets. When infant massage is part of the baby's normal routine, there is a good chance he will grow into a child who knows what relaxation is and how to achieve it to escape the stresses of life.
Infant Massage Improves Baby's Sleep
It follows that a baby lulled into relaxation by an infant massage will quickly succumb to slumber. The upside is that infant massage may help to promote sounder and longer sleep periods. Parents will also benefit from a soundly sleeping baby which will give them much needed rest also.
Infant Massage Supports Communication
Infant massage opens up a new channel for communication among baby and parents. Parents will learn to pick up on nonverbal cues from the baby. The infant will grow to feel as if he is being heard and attended to without having to clamor for it.
Infant Massage Relieves Discomfort
Studies indicate that infant massage releases endorphins and oxytocin into the baby's body. These elements may act to relive the common discomforts a baby struggles with such as teething, stress, congestion, and colic. Watch any mother trying to comfort an unhappy baby as massage, rubbing, and patting just come naturally. The movements help to settle the child, relax him, and alleviate his discomfort.
Infant Massage is Fun
What better reason could there be for infant massage other than the simple fact that the baby and parents think it is fun? It is a great way to get some giggles and coos from the baby and have an enjoyable time together.
So given the above benefits, it is no wonder that infant massage is so popular. Of course mothers have been massaging their babies since the beginning of time, but when we speak of the formal infant massage you should know there is actually a method to follow. Certain types of movements act to calm and relax the baby before bedtime and other types of movements will energize him. Still other types of massage movements act to relieve discomfort. So if you would like to learn formal massage for your baby and experience the benefits above, ask around and see if you can find a local infant massage class that you and your baby can attend together.
There is actually proof that these rubdown techniques not only relax your baby, but more importantly, aid in their development into intelligent, happy children who are fully aware of the world around them.
The Benefits
Although it is a new trend, studies have been conducted by education experts to see how infant massage influences kids and mothers. There is a wide range of physical, mental, emotional and developmental benefits to the practice. These studies also show that these techniques help kids to interact with adults more easily.
Physically, these specific movements stimulate babies' nervous systems. In particular, it speeds up the process called myelination, which promotes communication between the brain and body. This is very important in early growth, because it means that they will be better able to develop control over their movements.
Another benefit is that it helps with circulation and respiration. When the blood flows through the body more easily, it helps to get rid of toxins, and regulate all the body's important functions. Better circulation also means better sleep.
Studies have shown that these techniques help babies' immune systems develop. There has been a link observed between this technique and the production of white blood cells that help to fend off diseases. Infant massage has been particularly helpful to babies that suffer from life-threatening hereditary diseases.
Baby massage also helps with digestion. A good, routine session will help a baby get rid of gas, reduce constipation and prevent colic.
Helping Your Baby Relax
Encouraging relaxation is one of the most important overall benefits of the practice. The kneading movements reduce muscle tension and anxiety. This contributes to better sleep, which is as important to a baby's health as a proper diet.
Infant massage not only relaxes kids, but aids in their development. In order to develop into healthy toddlers, babies need lots of stimulation. This can be stressful and difficult for them, but these proper stimulation techniques get them acclimated with regular daily doses.
This helps them get ready for the stimulation they will receive as they become more used to the world around them. It helps get them started reacting with their world, an important first step in the development of a young child.
When we start teaching our toddler important life skills, this experience with stimulation gives them a head start. Babies who have had a regular massage routine often show traits of intelligence and calmness in early life. Studies have shown that these children also show lower levels of hyperactivity when they are toddlers and young kids.
Finally, the practice helps the child bond with caring adults. As a parent, learning these techniques can be a great way to help your baby develop. You can also take your baby to classes, where a masseuse who has undergone training can show you how it is done. This is a wonderful way to get your child used to adults and the world around them.
Infant massage, either done at home with the right techniques, or in classes where they have specialized training, has wonderful benefits for a new child and parents.
Both Anne Morris & Andrew Stratton are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Anne Morris has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Management, Coffee Advantages and bowling. Anne Morris is an established freelance writer. You can find more of her writings at and. Anne Morris's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.
Andrew Stratton has sinced written about articles on various topics from Motorola Cell Phone, Tummy Tucks Before and After and Political and Social. A growing trend among parents wanting healthier babies is a technique called . It provides benefits to the child, including nervous system development. Andrew Stratton's top article generates over 246000 views. to your Favourites.