5 Important Benefits of Baby Massage

If you’ve heard of baby massage but aren’t sure what benefits it can have for infants, read on. First off, it’s a great way to bond with them, and it has a host of other benefits. Your baby will feel relaxed and comfortable, and you will be able to help them sleep better. Baby massage can even help with colic, gas, and constipation, to keep your little one happy and healthy.

Great for Bonding

There are few things more special than the bond between a parent and child - what better way to strengthen that bond than through baby massage? It’s great for your baby's development, but it's also an opportunity for you to connect with your little one on a physical and emotional level. When you massage your child, you're not only helping to relieve any discomfort they may be feeling, but you're also communicating your love and care. The simple act of touching and being touched can help to foster a deep sense of connection between you and your baby.

Encourages Better Sleep

If you have a baby who doesn’t sleep easily, you’ll be pleased to know that massage can help not just your baby, but also you, sleep more soundly. Physical contact releases oxytocin in the brain, a hormone that promotes bonding and relaxation. The gentle touching also has the effect of stimulating the production of serotonin, another hormone that helps improve mood and promote calm. In addition, massage can help to relax tight muscles, ease colic pain, and improve digestion. As a result, regular massage can effectively encourage better sleep for both babies and their parents.

Helps with Colic, Gas, and Constipation

Colicky pain, gas and constipation can be very uncomfortable for little ones and as parents we naturally want to do everything we can to ease our babies’ discomfort. When it comes to colic, gentle massage can help to relax the infant and relieve the pressure that can build up in the abdomen. Massage can also help to stimulate the digestive system and promote regular bowel movements, easing constipation and built up gas. In addition, baby massage can help to improve circulation and increase flexibility, which can benefit your child’s general health and wellbeing.

Improves Circulation

The gentle, rhythmic strokes of baby massage can help to improve circulation by promoting the movement of lymph fluids and blood around the body. This can help to reduce congestion and swelling, as well as promoting healing. Additionally, the relaxed state induced by baby massage can help lower stress levels, which can, in turn, positively impact circulation. By reducing stress, the body can better focus on healing and repair. For these reasons, baby massage can be a helpful tool for improving circulation.

A Soothing and Calming Experience

For many parents, baby massage is a way to bond with their child while providing a calming and soothing experience. The gentle touch and rhythmic strokes of massage can help to relax both the baby and the parent. Put on some calming music and enjoy the quality time together. By taking the time to massage their child, parents can create precious memories that will last a lifetime.

Photo by RODNAE Productions