Infant massage is a step beyond cuddling and may be a fun way to provide an emotional and physical link between parent and infant. It’s a way to communicate and convey affection and a sense of security. It can provide the infant relief from daily stress or discomfort from constipation, trapped gas or teething. Massaging babies for up to 15 minutes a day can help to increase circulation, promote relaxation, aid the digestive and respiratory systems, and relieve muscle tension, help baby relax and sleep positively affect infant hormones that control stress Reduce crying.
The practice involves a combination of relaxing strokes, light kneading, and gentle squeezing. It uses the same strokes that generations of parents all over the world have practiced, yet it becomes a rhythmic dance that is uniquely personal between the parent and baby when experienced at home from day-to-day. Providing physical, emotional and mental health benefits, infant massage is a unique yet natural way to increase the bond between a parent and child.