Should I do a massage for my baby?

  Have you ever done a massage to your baby? Many mothers may have such a question: is it good for babies? Should I choose a massage oil for a baby? How to do baby massage for his/her colic?

  It is good for babies if you do massage for them with the right massage actions. Next, let’s talk about the details as below.

1. benefits of baby massage

• help your baby relax

  Massage always will help people to relax. Not just relax the body, it also can relieve your baby’s emotions. Babies, especially newborns, they always will feel insecure. Parents need to find some ways to soothe their babies. Massage is a good choice. When a baby is in a state of being emotionally and mentally at peace, he/she can fall asleep easily. At this time, you also can take some time to have a rest.

• help your baby have a better sleep

  When your baby is relaxed, he/she can have a longer, more restful sleep. Having high-quality sleep is important for a growing baby. There are two purposes of sleep: physical rest and psychological rest. Getting enough rest is good for a baby’s growth and development. On the other hand, a night of good sleep also can help your baby to have a good mood. And it also can make life easier for you and your baby.

• improve the baby’s colic

  Colic is a common problem in newborns and babies. It is also a reason for the baby’s crying. Colic will make your baby feel uncomfortable. A good massage helps to increase the comfort of your baby.

• shorten the distance between you and your baby

  The loving touch is good communication between you and your baby. On one hand, it can shorten the distance. On the other hand, it improves the parent-child relationship. Through constant touch, babies can feel their parents and get a sense of security.

2. How to massage your baby?

2.1 before massage

  There are some preparations that need to be made before the massage. Giving the baby a relaxing bath, and preparing a comfortable environment. Good bathing can make the baby relaxed. After the bath, place your naked baby on a clean, thick soft bath towel or blanket. Remember the room temperature should not be too high or too low.

2.2 apply some baby oils or lotions

  Firstly, apply the baby oil or lotion to your hands. Then gently, slowly touch your baby's body with your fingers. The use of body lotion and oil can keep your baby’s skin soft and supple. It also helps mothers do massage for their babies more conveniently.

2.3 start to massage

• Stroke around the baby’s stomach and belly button, it helps your baby’s digestion.
• Turning your baby's legs slowly can relieve stomach flatulence.
• Use your warm hands to massage the soles of your baby’s feet from heel to toe.
• Use your finger pads to massage your baby’s face and forehead  Massage the scalp in small circles.
• Stop massaging if your baby seems uncomfortable.

• choose a proper massage time

  Choosing a proper to massage your baby can make a difference. Do not massage your baby after a feeding. It may cause your baby to spit up.

• keep talking with your baby

  Most babies are familiar with the voice of their mothers. The voice can help them calm down and feel secure. It also helps the massage be more successful.

• be careful

  Be careful when putting your baby down, and picking him/her up. Especially after a massage. Because baby oils and lotions can make babies slippery.