Massaging Your Baby

*****Review Johnson & Johnson Infant Massage Video on YouTube

Choose a time when your baby is awake and alert, not too hungry or too full

Set the scene by ensuring the room is warm and lighting not too bright

Have what you need at hand: light oil such as safflower, towel, clean diapers and clothes

Wash your hands and trim your nails short. Remove jewelry such as watches

Make sure that you have a safe and comfortable place to do the massage and position your baby so that they can see your face clearly

Before starting, take time to relax with a few full breaths letting go of any tension

Remember that all babies are different, changing all the time. For instance, young babies may feel more secure if most of their clothes are left on and they feel close to their parents' body

Remember that the infant is in charge of their body so the massage may only last a few moments or up to 15 minutes if they choose.

Never force the movement of the infant. If they pause while you massage them then you pause too. Try to start movement again after a few moments and see if the infant is willing

Maintain eye contact when possible and smile or make soothing sounds such as “Sssshhh”

Play soothing music such as Deep Theta or Delta throughout the session(optional)

Contact me anytime if you have any questions before getting started. I have received trining in massaging infants in NICU at the U of Miami where Johnson & Johnson supported studies to develop infant massage.

Benefits

Helps you and your baby understand each other better

Soothe babies and reduce crying

Aid digestion and help relieve colic, wind and constipation

Help babies to sleep more deeply and for longer

Relieve nasal congestion and teething discomfort

Help develop good muscle tone, co-ordination and suppleness

Enhance body awareness

Boost the immune system

Improve skin texture

Help calm and relax both parent and baby

Boost parents' confidence in handling their baby