Infant massage is an ancient practice that is gaining recognition in modern baby care for its numerous benefits. Regular massage promotes physical, emotional, and cognitive development, while also strengthening the bond between parent and baby.
Physical Benefits
Massage helps improve blood circulation, aids in digestion, and can alleviate discomfort from gas and colic. For premature babies, it has been shown to enhance weight gain and overall growth by stimulating the nervous system and promoting relaxation. It also strengthens muscle tone and coordination as babies learn to associate touch with movement.
Emotional Bonding
The tactile connection during massage strengthens the emotional bond between parent and child. Skin-to-skin contact stimulates the release of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” in both the parent and the baby, fostering trust and security. This bonding experience can help ease postpartum depression in mothers, enhancing emotional wellbeing.
How to Get Started
Parents can incorporate massage into their daily routine, using gentle strokes and baby-safe oils like coconut or almond oil. It’s important to ensure that the baby is calm and alert, as over-stimulation can cause irritability.
Infant massage is a holistic approach that offers lifelong benefits for both babies and their caregivers.
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