From easing colic to bonding and better sleep, here are 5 reasons to massage your baby every day and which oils are best to use.
Even in the animal kingdom, touch is vital for life. Baby animals are massaged by their mothers through licking and grooming. Unfortunately, baby animals who have been separated from their mother or abandoned for whatever reason and are not nurtured by physical touch do not thrive well.
Baby massage amongst humans is not a new practice. It dates back thousands of years and was said to have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for healing, pain relief, and to boost the immune system. In the 1970’s, baby massage was introduced to western culture and is now used by parents and in neonatal intensive care units for its healing benefits. Let’s take a look at 5 benefits, although the list goes on!
1. Aids in digestion and colic | There are a few particular motions to use around baby’s lower abdomen that can ease gas, constipation, and colic. In a 2016 randomized control trial, it was found that massage therapy is more effective than rocking for treating infant colic symptoms. When massaging baby’s abdomen, be sure to apply very gentle pressure and use a clockwise circular motion from their belly button and below. It is best to wait at least an hour after feeding before doing massage on their stomach or abdomen.
2. Relaxes muscles and nervous system | If you have an anxious, over tired or stressed baby, massage can help. It not only relaxes baby’s muscles, but massage also stimulates the central nervous system which helps to reduce stress and induce relaxation. Try a short 20 minute massage after a bath or before a nap or bedtime. As you massage baby, you will also feel the relaxation on your end!
3. Moisturizes skin | You will want to use a natural, cold pressed oil that is not too sticky and that will not clog pores. We suggest the best oils to use below but here’s a tip: Baby’s skin will absorb and moisturize best when it is warm, so massaging after a bath is the best time to moisturize baby’s skin. Another product we love using (and highly recommend!) is Sweet Cheeks Body Balm by Dimpleskins Naturals. The plant-based oils are perfect for a slippery, moisturizing massage and the natural vanilla and lavender combination helps to relax baby.
4. Increases circulation | Our body does not have a built-in system for moving lymphatic fluid to our lymphnodes, where toxins get filtered and sent to the liver, then eliminated. We rely on movement and exercise for this to work effectively. By massaging baby, you are helping to move the lymphatic fluid and essentially aiding in detoxification.
5. Strengthens bond and trust | Baby massage by caregivers, grandparents, siblings, and fathers is a wonderful way to build a bond and trust. Safe physical touch releases oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone”, which promotes feelings of well being and attachment. This is also a time where you are present, giving all your attention to baby, which makes them feel safe, loved, and secure. As you make massage a regular practice, baby will start to recognize the cues that a massage is coming and will love the ritual of it all. Humans love routine, and this can certainly come in the form of a daily massage or as part of their bed time to help them start winding down for sleep.
Which oil is best for baby massage?
Use a light, cold pressed, natural or organic oil for baby. The best ones are:
- Apricot kernel oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Jojoba oil
- Coconut oil
- or a blend of these oils in a balm form that you can warm up in your hands. As baby hears that sound repeatedly, they will start to recognize what ritual is about to happen!
- If you are going to add essential oils to the oil, be sure they are safe for babies and use just 1 drop. The best oils are pure essential oils, not fragrance oils. Lavender and chamomile are relaxing, mandarin orange can be uplifting, vanilla and rose are grounding.
Tips for baby massage
Massage isn’t only for relaxing! Some babies find massage stimulating, so find the best time for your massage that works with baby’s mood and their response
Always ask for their permission by warming up the oil or balm in your hands and asking, “Can I massage you?” You might not get a response at first, but as you create the ritual, they will get to know the signs and either give you a smile or cry if it’s not the best time
Wait at least an hour after feeding before massaging baby, especially around the stomach area
Avoid massaging directly on their spine
Watch baby’s cues. Some babies are not comfortable with touching areas like the face. You will get to know which areas are extra sensitive by their cues and reactions
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