By Cristina Gauthier R.M.T.

Infant massage has a long tradition in many cultures, such as Indian, Malaysian, and many African countries. In North America it is only in the last few years that infant massage is catching on. We are only now beginning to understand the benefits of massaging our babies, for the parents and caregivers and the babies themselves.

Some of the benefits include relaxation, relief from discomfort, stimulation and bonding.

Infant massage helps to relax the baby. The world must seem a strange place after 9 months in the warm and close surroundings of their mother’s womb. A gentle touch helps to comfort and sooth the baby’s muscles. It’s also a great time for the person giving the massage to de-stress, as well.

Massage can offer relief from colic. Certain techniques can help to ease the gas pains associated with colic and get the digestive system working properly. With the baby lying on its back, bring the knees up to the abdomen and then straighten them. It can also be done with one leg at a time in a repetitive fashion. This can also help to relieve constipation if your baby is having digestion problems by encouraging movement in the bowels.

Research has shown that the stimulation the infant receives from a 5-minute massage will increase their circulation and help increase body weight in premature infants (by as much as 47%). Some also say that babies who are massaged regularly will develop higher IQ’s than those who were not.

Finally, massage time is a great time for fathers to bond with their baby. In most families it is the father who spends the day at work, away from the home. Men can feel as though they are not needed and shut out of their child’s life, especially with the first child. Massaging their baby is a great way to get to know their child and have some private time with their baby. As they get to know their baby, the baby gets to know them.

To begin the massage, make sure the room and baby are warm, and that your baby is content, not hungry, tired or cranky. When massaging your baby, it’s important to talk to them and communicate with them about what you’re doing, regardless of whether that child can communicate back. Eye contact is very important. Warm hands and a gentle but firm touch are very important. Avoid over-stimulation. The massage should last no longer than 10 - 15 minutes, with slow, deliberate strokes. Your baby will give you signals. Always stop when your baby has had enough. If using oil, choose a vegetable or plant oil, rather than mineral based (i.e. traditional baby oil). Body cream is another alternative or even nothing at all.

Massaging your baby from the time they are born is the beginning of a bond you will have with your child that will last a lifetime - so why not start it off in the best way possible.