The benefits of baby massage

Benefits of Baby Massage
Massaging your baby doesn’t have to be the actions of a massage guru, as mum/dad/caregiver, you are the expert! The benefits of massage can include improvement to circulation, digestion and relaxation as well as giving you more of that precious skin-to-skin contact with your baby.

Much of baby massage is instinctive, however if you’d like a hand there are plenty of online baby massage courses, books and YouTube videos. As for massage oils, there are an array of choices depending on you and your baby’s needs. Some parents might dash for coconut oil  from the cupboard whilst there are also plenty of baby specific oils on the market. For babies with eczema you may need to speak to your health visitor and/or trial until you find the best one for your baby’s skin. One thing to note is that olive oil can inhibit some of the natural oils the body produces and tends not to be encouraged.

Baby massage can be done at any time of day but many parents like to bring it in to their bedtime routine to bring calmness and relaxation to the evenings proceeds.

We personally found baby massage to be best for babies from just a couple of days old up until 6 months old.  For young babies it is a great way to develop a bond with baby as they aren't communicating verbally with you yet but will love to feel your touch.  The relaxation of baby massage not only brings you closer to baby, but it can help soothe and calm them, as well as reduce colic. After 6 months old those babies are a lot more wriggly and probably don't need so much help with reflux any more.  That's not to say older babies still won't love a gentle foot massage or back rub. Change your massage to suit your baby's needs and give them as frequently as you like.  They will be sure to love all the one on one time with you and the feel of your touch.

Why not use baby oils with calming scents if it is part of bed time routine?  Many babies struggle with getting to sleep, and bringing a reassuring smell at night time into their baby massage routine could really help them associate  the scent with bed time.

Don't be nervous if you aren't an expert or if you haven't done any courses.  Just have a go at home with your baby oil.  Have fun with your baby, as they will love all these extra cuddles and attention.

For some of our top recommended baby oils do check out our winners page. 

We love the bonding you can achieve from baby massage