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Guide To Massaging Your Baby

We all love a good massage and your little ones are no exception. Giving your baby a massage can be a great way to let her feel your love and care, but it also benefits her in many wonderful ways. Baby massage can be relaxing for both you and the baby, and it can be a great opportunity for both of you to enjoy quality time together. Here are some of the benefits of baby massage.

BONDING EXPERIENCE

Massaging your baby can be a wonderful opportunity to bond with her. Having eye contact and talking to her during the massage can help accustom her to your presence. Dads who are busy with work can use this opportunity to bond too. “My husband loves massaging our daughter after her bath every day as he gets to spend time with her after a long day at work,” shares 31-year-old mum Caroline Ng. “Watching him massage her always brings a smile to my face.”

REDUCED STRESS

Many studies have shown that touch decreases the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone our body produces. By using gentle and soothing strokes, you are also encouraging the production of oxytocin, the feel-good hormone that is derived from affectionate behaviour. Spikes in oxytocin levels most commonly occur in mothers during breastfeeding, but dads can receive a boost as well when they are engaging with the baby.

IMPROVED SLEEP

By reducing levels of stress, your baby can be in a relaxed state. Studies have shown that being in a relaxed state helps you sleep more soundly. ” I started massaging my little one after six weeks and I found that he was more relaxed as he started to fall asleep during the massage. He also slept longer,” comments Cynthia Tan, a 28-year-old mother of one.

RELIEVING DISCOMFORTS

It is stressful and upsetting to watch your baby suffer from gas pains or constipation. Rubbing in clockwise circles about half an inch away from their belly button can improve circulations and ease digestive comforts. However, it is recommended by experts to avoid massaging the stomach until your baby’s umbilical stump has dried and fallen off, to prevent infection.

Is there a minimum age to start massaging your baby?

It is advisable to wait at least about two weeks after your baby’s birth for her skin to develop, before giving her a massage. Holding it off until she is about two to three months old when she is more settled into a routine, is even better.

When is the best time to massage?

The best time to give your baby a massage is when both of you are calm and relaxed. Massaging your baby with cream after a bath can help keep her skin well-moisturised, while a massage before bedtime can help her feel more relaxed and ready for bed. Also, babies love routines: use the same massage techniques every time so that she gets used to it and enjoys it even more.

How to massage your baby?

Always perform the strokes gently and slowly, applying mild pressure using the pads of your fingers (rather than your entire palm). Start with your baby’s legs first. Getting her diapers changed regularly means that she would be more familiar with the feeling of being touched on the legs. After she has become more acclimatised to the process, move on to her back, arms and then to the rest of her body, adopting a routine pattern each time.

Always take the cues from your baby such as when she’s receptive to a massage, which stroke she likes, which ones she doesn’t, or if she prefers not to have one at all. If she starts to cry during the massage, stop, and try another time (or something else altogether). There’s always more than one way to make your baby happy!

Interested in reading more pregnancy and maternity tips?

You will find a collection of articles here on pregnancy diet and nutrition, exercise & fitness during and post pregnancy, emotional wellness and more. Check out a few from the list below:

  1. Keep your child healthy and safe from obesity
  2. Baby Food – What’s best for your baby?
  3. 5 Medicines You Should Not Be Giving Your Baby.
  4. Planning a Nursery – Tips on Nursery Planning for Your Baby
  5. 5 signs your baby is overstimulated

Have you considered umbilical cord blood banking ? 

If you are pregnant, it is a good time to take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to store your baby’s cord blood and cord tissue with Cryoviva, a reputed family cord blood bank in Singapore. Understand the cord blood collection and cord blood storage process as well as cord blood banking cost in Singapore.  If you have any questions on benefits of cord blood banking or the process and costs, contact us today. Our specialists are here to help you every step of the way. Simply e-mail: enquiry@cryoviva.com.sg / WhatsApp: +65- 8339 8482