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Things to Know Before Baby MassageMassage can have many physiologic benefits for an infant, along with providing an increased bonding experience with their parents. Numerous studies have taken place, in the hopes to find the benefits of massage for children. It is safe to say that most have come back fairly conclusive, and have shed some light on the wonders of baby massage. Many studies have shown that infant massage can provide an increased strength and regulation in the respiratory, circulatory, as well as gastrointestinal functions. It has been known to help improve muscle tone and motor skills, and can help cause soothing stimulation to the developing nervous system, sensory nerves, as well as the motor nerves. These of course aren’t the only benefits of infant massage, as many people are lead to believe. It can also have healing effects on birth trauma, by soothing strained or pulled muscles, along with help in stimulating growing brain cells, and influence mental development, enhanced sense of touch, relief from daily stress that builds from new encounters, relief from gas pain which is caused by colic. There are also benefits which effect the child’s relationship such as an enhanced nurturing of the parent and infant relationship which promotes bonding, promotion of healthy body awareness and self image, encouragement of parents to relax, as well as increased confidence in their parents and care givers. Now that we have taken a look at the studies as well as the benefits of massaging your infant, we will now look into some of the things you should do prior to participating in a baby massage routine. Firstly you should obtain approval from your child’s doctor prior to participating in this program. These massages should be preformed in a calm, relaxing environment; try to minimize any bright lights, chilly drafts, or loud noises to help maintain this environment. Pick a comfortable spot such as a padded mat, or soft carpet, or the couch (Make sure your child can not easily roll off of any high spots). You should have soft towels available to either lay your child on , wiping off excess oil or lotion, and to cover areas of your infant that aren’t being massaged to keep them warm. You should choose a time when your child is quiet but alert, and not too tired or grumpy, you should give them at least a half hour after they have eaten prior to doing the massage. The person whether it be yourself or a care giver preforming the massage, should also be in a relaxed state. You will want to use an edible oil, such as a vegetable or nut oil (such as almond) since infants tend to place their hands and feet in their mouths, and nothing is worse than a toxic oil or lotion getting into your child’s system. You should pour a small amount of the non-toxic lotion or oil into the palm of your hand and allow it to warm, prior to applying it to your child’s skin. A small amount should be tested on the infant’s skin at least a day before the massage to make certain, that it will not cause irritation or an allergic reaction. You should be encouraged to listen to the baby’s cues, if the infant is not enjoying the massage you should promptly end it; and try another day . Once more you should try to place a cd of soft lullabies, or sing to your child during the massage process. The touch that you use should be gentle but firm, with two to three repetitions to each stroke should be enough at first IE: two repetitions across the heel of your child’s foot. This way your child can become more accustomed to the massage, and will allow for them to increase in length at a later time.
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