Massage is an extension of our instinct to nurture and touch and so it
is appropriate to begin massage from birth using gentle strokes. Babies
younger than six weeks would benefit from a shorter sessions of 5-10 minutes as they may be sensitive to stimulation however, some babies may not like being naked for very long until they’re around six to eight weeks old.
Once your baby is able to have short relaxed periods in his day, a longer massage will help to relax both of you and provide special time together.
Before you start:
- The best time to practise massage is between feeds when your baby’s
tummy isn’t full or after a bath when he’s warm and uncomfortable. - Make sure the room is warm and draught free and that your hands are
clean and warm - Keep some towels nearby so you can cover parts that aren’t being massaged
so he doesn’t get cold - Don’t forget to have a nappy and some wipes to hand
- You could massage on the bed or floor on some large, soft towels whatever’s
comfortable for your back - Use a vegetable base oil such as grape seed, sesame or almond oil.
There are also commercial baby oils specially created for babies.
How to do it
Remember that baby massage is something all parents can do without expert
tuition, all you need is a warm pair of hands and some time! Just put
some oil on your hands and start with long sweeping strokes down across
your baby’s body. Try not to break contact and repeat this motion up his
body. Keep the pressure gentle but firm and then just do what’s intuitive
and be guided by your baby.
Massage often forms part of Parentcraft classes and you can look for
baby massage classes in your area, your health visitor is likely to have
details. There are also lots of books, websites and videos explaining
how to massage.
Are there any times when baby massage shouldn’t be performed?
There are times when it would not be appropriate to massage your baby.
These include;
- During acute infections such as fever, sickness, and diarrhoea
- If he has undiagnosed lumps and bumps
- If he has any contagious disease
- If he is suffering with any serious skin complaints, open sores or
inflammation. - Following surgery
- If he has clicky hips, epilepsy, heart or lung problems
- For the first 72 hours after immunisation.
You should consult your medical professional before practice if your
baby is on medication or has any serious medical condition.
You may also feel that there are other times when it is inappropriate
to massage your baby. You should always listen to your instincts when
deciding whether practice is appropriate.
To purchase your own Baby Massage routine for use at home please visit:
www.newstorktimes.co.uk - read about newstorktimes here
Where to next?
- More parenting problems discussed and solved!
- Is your toddler driving you round the bend? Let off some steam on our forum
- Mind your Ps and Qs! Teaching your child manners.
