The benefits of baby massage

For baby:

• Smoothes transition from the womb into the world
• Develops your baby's first language: touch
• Through positive touch a feeling of being loved, secure and respected is enhanced
• Promotes relaxation
• Improves the quality of sleep and helps to reduce 'fussiness'
• Helps to strengthen the respiratory system and regulate the digestive system
• Can help to reduce the discomfort of colic, wind and constipation
• Stimulates the nervous system whilst also encouraging good circulation
• Develops body, mind, coordination and awareness
• Improves skin conditions

For parents:

• Enhances your confidence in dealing with your baby's needs
• Helps you understand non-verbal communication
• Both you and your baby relax together
• Can help with postnatal depression
• If breastfeeding, lactation is promoted through stimulation of hormones
• Stimulates the hormone oxytocin, promoting nurturing instinct in both male and female

© Mary Nyariki 2010