What exactly is Infant Massage?

Infant massage is a deep bonding experience between parents and their children. A clinical definition of Infant Massage might be, "... the application of various specialized massage techniques to stroke the muscles of an infant". There are other crucial elements of the massage, including vocalization, and eye-to-eye contact, as well as many other positive behavioral reinforcements. Mothers have practiced the art of infant massage for centuries. With history as a basis, it is clear that babies should be massaged and touched, and of course, loved. These are the tools that promote positive social, emotional, cognitive and physical development. Not only can Infant Massage be used on healthy full-term newborns, it can also help families cope with children that have special needs. Infant Massage techniques are both simple, and effective. The approach to Infant Massage in intended to be empowering, and to improve the bonding process of parents and infants.

Besides bonding, what are the benefits of infant massage?

• Helps Relieve Discomfort from Gas, Colic, and Constipation
• Improves Blood Circulation
• Aids in Digestion
• Can Aid in the Relief of Pain Due to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Enhanced Development of the Nervous System
• Stimulates Neurological Development
• Increases Alertness/Heightened Awareness
• Reduces Stress Hormones
• Improves Immune Function
• The Release of Oxytocin, the Nurturing Hormone
• Relaxes & Soothes
• Improves Communication
• Increases your confidence and sensitivity to your baby's cues
• Contributes to Development
• Stimulates growth and healthy development of your baby's body, mind and spirit
• Enhances your ability to understand your baby's special needs
• Helps Baby Sleep Better

"What type of oil should I use & why?" - ©International Loving Touch® Foundation)

As seen on the International Loving Touch® Foundation website:
"Using oil on the skin helps avoid friction during massage. When Loving Touch is used with newborns, oil may not be needed. Studies conducted at the Touch Research Institute indicate that the use of oil had a better response than not using oil. Natural cold-pressed or organic oils, such as sweet almond, apricot, sesame seed or grapeseed oil, will nourish your baby's skin and give a very smooth and pleasant feeling. Do not use mineral oil-based lotions, peanut oil or baby powder. The reason for using natural and organic oil is because babies put their hands in their mouths and the use of unscented oil makes them able to recognize their mother's scent."

When is the best time to give my baby infant massage?

Basically, infant or baby massage can be performed at any time of the day. However, the absolute best time to perform the massage is at a time when the infant or baby is in a state of alertness, and quiet. Perhaps a massage before or after a bath, or in the morning, or even between feedings. It is not recommended to perform infant massage just before bedtime, because it can stimulate your child, and keep them awake. Creating a  solid, consistent routine of infant massage is the best way for parents and infants to get the greatest benefit.

How long should I massage my baby?

In general, a massage can last between 20 and 30 minutes. However, by assessing the reaction of your baby, and his/her interest, the massage could last longer, or even be a bit shorter. Your main goal should be to ensure that both of you are enjoying the experience. The greatest benefit of the massage is to complete the routine you have created. It is possible, due to fussiness, that it may take a period of time to attain a solid, consistent routine of infant massage. However, this need not be a source of discouragement, as any time spent with your baby is time for bonding.

When should I stop infant massage?

Overall, there is not a distinct set time to stop the massage. As the bonding process is developed, you will be able to read the cues your baby offers, and you will be able to recognize for yourself that it is time to stop. Stop when you are comfortable to do so.

As far as long-term, massage routines can last through the age of six or seven months old, when crawling typically begins. However, the benefits of baby massage are still  present. Not only that, there are many parents who report that children prefer that the massage continue, noting that it helps with their relaxation. Again, assess your personal situation, and make your decision based on how you and the child feel. A simple backrub before bedtime can be a staple of your lives together.

What if I don't have enough time for a full massage?

There will be times that the routine you've created requires alteration. If you are unable to do a full massage, you can merely add a portion of your massage routine (e.g. legs and feet, arms and shoulders, or the abdomen) into standard baby care events, such as when bathing, or changing diapers, and even times that you would normally be spending time with each other. Any amount of time spent doing massage is wonderful for everyone.