“What are the health benefits of baby massage, and how do I do it?”

TINA OTTE, YP SPECIALIST EDITOR, SAYS…

Massaging your newborn baby has many benefits, some which may surprise you. Those benefits include stimulating and enhancing the immune system, making your baby less likely to develop illnesses. Massage opens the respiratory system, making breathing easier. Research has shown that babies who are massaged gain weight better, because the endocrine system increases levels of growth hormones during massage. This is especially important for premature babies. Blood and lymph are moved around the body more efficiently, getting rid of waste and toxins. Muscles are toned and strengthened for what lies ahead and healing happens faster. The digestive system in a baby is always a concern for new mothers. Colic and winds are often troublesome and massage can ease a lot of discomfort as peristalsis is speeded up and a healthy digestion is promoted. Most important of all is the fact that your baby is learning about himself and his world, as well as about his mom and dad, through the experience of touch. Let dad have a go at massaging his tiny baby. Men and women touch their babies in different ways, and babies expect this and get to know who’s who, not only through looking, but through their sense of touch as well. Follow these guidelines before starting: • Keep movements slow and firm. • Keep the room warm. • Place baby on a clean, soft surface. • You must be relaxed and comfortable. • Do baby massage when your baby is lying quietly with her eyes open and her limbs relaxed. • Make sure you have clean towels to lay her on and a warm cotton blanket close by. • Keep the rhythm slow and the pressure of your touch firm, but gentle. This is very soothing and calming for baby. • Gently ask your baby for permission to massage by looking into her eyes and getting her attention. This is very important, and even though you may think she can’t answer you, she certainly can let you know if she wants to be massaged, and when she’s had enough. Your baby will associate “asking permission” with massage.g This goesg a long way in building trust and a healthy y attitude to being touched.