There are several simple techniques that can be incorporated into a daily routine that will encourage the baby’s development by leaps and bounds. The first step is to recognize the goal of providing a healthy touch. Use high quality food grade oil, such as olive, almond, or sunflower; for some extra relaxation, drop some pure lavender oil into the oil being used. Respect the willingness of the child by observing the cues they give. Talk to the baby as the massaging starts; explain what is being done – engage him by gently explaining what is being done. In return, the baby will become calm, attentive, and feel very cozy.

 

When massaging the baby’s arms, gently squeeze the muscles from top to bottom and then stroking along the whole length of the arm to the hands. As the fists relax, use a circular motion in baby’s palm to unclench the fists. Stroke upward across the baby’s chest toward his shoulders and continues the stroke down along his arm using firm but gentle pressure.

 

Repeat the same muscle squeezing or milking motion along the baby’s leg, first on his thighs, and then on his calves. Use the thumb to apply gentle pressure along the sole of the foot, stroking from heel to the base of the toes while supporting his ankle with the other hand. The baby’s toes stretch out and his foot visibly relaxes in response to these strokes. Before moving on to the next area of the baby’s body, place a hand on the top of the baby’s head and the other on his tummy. The quiet contact or touch relaxation helps to reassure the baby before the next stroke starts. This is a good thing to do if the baby seems restless or over-stimulated during the massage. Be attentive to the baby’s mood and cues throughout, and notes that babies will signal when they’ve had enough.

 

Two helpful strokes if the baby has gas or colic. Gently push the baby’s knees together and up into his tummy, then stretches them out straight. Then gently bicycles the legs, pushing one, then the other knee into his tummy. Do the “I LOVE YOU” stroke on the baby’s abdomen. Using the pads of the fingers, press gently on the baby’s left side to make an “I” from top to bottom, staying below the baby’s ribcage. She then strokes across the upper abdomen under the ribcage then down along the left side forming an upside down “L”. The final stroke is an upside down “U” that wraps around the belly button.

 

Do the massage when your baby is quiet, alert and well-rested.

 

After a nap is often a good time to do the massage.

 

Have everything ready before you begin:

 

Make sure the room is warm enough that your baby will be comfortable with few or no clothes on.

 

Ask your baby’s permission before beginning: “Are you ready for your massage today?” Doing this helps your baby understand healthy touch.

 

Pay attention to your baby’s cues.

 

Both of you should enjoy the experience and there’s no need to feel pressured to do a complete massage.

 

You’ll be able to tell if she’s enjoying the massage by watching her facial expressions, noting any startle reflexes, and tuning in to how her body responds to the strokes.

 

Take your time; punctuate the massage with moments of stillness.

 

There are number of spas that offer teaching massaging techniques for moms to do on their babies.

 

If you want to learn first hand, the Sitamaa Day Spa offers baby massage for moms. The massage therapist will guide the mom through the process. It is an excellent learning.

 

There are several other massage workshops available at various times of the year. The best thing to do is research this online to see what suits your needs.

www.justthefactsbaby.com did a great summary on baby massage

Growing baby also offers courses http://www.growingbaby.net/infantmassageclasses.htm

 

This is a great practice to incorporate into your daily routine. Your baby will be much happier and relaxed and sleep better. Circulation is so important and the earlier you start promoting healthy circulation, the better it is for the child.