BABY
Massage Grows a Baby's Mind, Body & Soul
Go ahead, get your "spa" on!
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
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BABY
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
SHARE THIS ARTICLE
Bestsellers
Touch is not only a reminder of the womb; like milk, it’s an essential nutrient for growth. And, in some ways, touch is even more beneficial than milk.
One study showed that preemies massaged for 15 minutes a day gained more weight and left the hospital on average one week earlier. (A year later these same babies had higher IQ’s than preemies just held routinely.) Other research found that healthy, full-term babies massaged daily cried less, were more alert and socially engaged and had lower levels of stress hormones.
There are lots of ways to massage, but here are a few tips:
Who does not love a little pampering? About an hour after a feed, warm the room, dim the lights, turn off the phone and turn on soft music. Use warm vegetable oil; almond or avocado oil is great. Keep your baby warmly covered with a thick towel (or go luxe with a mini cotton robe!) Keep wipes and nappys handy, just in case.
Take slow, deep breaths to be fully in the moment. Massage is an exchange of love!
Always try to keep one hand on your baby and softly talk about what you’re doing now and as well as hoping for their life to come.
Warm the oil between your hands and start with your baby’s feet. Uncovering one limb at a time, use a fluid, but firm touch. Then move on to their stomach, chest, arms, hands, back, face, and ears, gently rotating, pulling, stretching and squeezing. Gently twist your baby's arms and legs as if lightly wringing a wet sponge.
If your baby gets restless, it’s a sign to change your pace or end the massage. (Are they hungry?) Wipe any excess oil off of their body, letting a bit remain to nourish the skin.
Baby massage benefits mums and dads too because it lowers stress and boosts your self-esteem. Mellow baby, mellow parents...this is the life!
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.
