Tips on Infant Massage
By: Adonis GreenTotal Views: 224, Word Count: 536,
Touch is one of the very first senses that an infant develops. Parents can form an everlasting bond with the infant with the help of infant massage. Infant massage is a very simple technique which can be put into the daily routine for the infant before bed time or after bathing.
The parents have to realise that as they go through stress even babies go through stress. The infant has to adjust to new surrounding, learn when to sleep and when to stay awake. It is a known fact that infants learn new things every single day at a much faster rate than adults, this results in stress.
When stress occurs the body automatically releases an hormone called cortisol and with regular massages the amount of cortisol in the baby’s blood is reduced. Regular massage helps in the reduction of stress in the infant.
Some useful tips on infant massage are -
Choose an appropriate time for the massage: The time and the place in regard to the massage have to be right. The most suitable time for the massage is usually bedtime, since the infant can have a restful and sound sleep. The room should be dimly lit with a calm ambience.
Play soothing music while massaging: Play comforting music. Any sort of music which is melodic in nature will help put the baby to sleep.
Ensure the position of the infant is appropriate: Allow the baby to lie on the back. Make sure that you rub the baby lotion or oil into your own hands first before applying it the same on the infant. Cold hands and cold lotion is not suitable for infant massage. Oils which are suitable for using for the infant include- almond, sesame or any other oil which is natural in nature.
Use your fingertips for the massage: You can start massaging through the abdomen area and later move ahead towards the neck and head. While massaging you should remain certain to stay below the ribcage.
Recognize the sensitive areas in the body of the infant: The most sensitive areas in the body of the infant are palms of their hands and the feet. The center of the infant’s body is also sensitive. Since the strongest sense of feeling in the baby is at the center it is beneficial to move from the center and then towards the out.
Some benefits of infant massage are as follows:
1. When the infant at regular intervals moves the muscles, the muscles in turn get tensed. Regular infant massage eases out the tensed up muscles in the infant.
2. The growth hormone in the baby increases with infant massage.
3. Infant massage aids in the strengthening of the circulatory system. This helps in improving the blood flow in the baby.
Infant massage aids in the formation of an everlasting bond between the parents and the baby. The overall feeling of well being is enhanced with a relaxing massage. A proper and effective massage is known to calm down even the most difficult and fussiest baby.
About the Author
Adonis Green is a renowned massage therapist and has been in this field for the last 15 yrs. He has worked in all aspects of this field. He taught at the Dahan Institute of Massage studies for a few years and then went on to open his own spa. Today his spa is quite famous among many people including celebrities. He has helped heal many injuries of people through his unique massage techniques. His advices on any massage related queries will surely prove beneficial for anyone.
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