Some of my favourite memories with my little newbie are the moments that we shared after bathtime when I would stroke their little bodies to relax them or simply to relieve a little gas.
It is surprisingly easy and has all sorts of benefits for helping your newborn relax and flood their little minds with peaceful tender mommy-time.
Giving your baby a massage is also very therapeutic for you! And gives you time out from the humdrum of your daily new-mummy tasks.
Of the five senses, touch is the one that is most developed at birth and feeling mama's hands all over their little body can help your little one feel hugely secure and close to you.
1. Routine
Make infant massage part of your daily routine. Consider massaging your baby around the same time every day so that he comes to expect and enjoy it. I always did it around bedtime so we were both sleepy and relaxed after our rubdown.
2. Go natural
Best massage materials are olive oil or avocado oil. I used coconut oil which I found very moisturising for my baby's dry newbie skin. Choose one that is edible and unscented as they are absorbed into baby's skin and won't be nasty if they suck on their fingers afterwards.
3. Set the scene
Make sure your therapy room (!) is warm enough. I did our mini pampering session on our bed with a towel down to stop oil stains. I loved putting on some relaxing music too and tried to chat along to my daughter so she could hear the familiar sounds of my voice for additional comfort.
4. Methods
There is no right or wrong way but do take your cues from baby. If they are in bad form keep it short and sweet and extend if they seem delighted with themselves. Use a gentle pressure and stroke every inch of their bodies from their heart outwards.
5. Mix it up
Hold you baby's heel in one hand and stroke all the way down from thigh to ankle gently squeezing the leg as you go - then reverse the motion. For their little heads, my daughter used to love when I drew tiny circles with my fingers are her little head. Next, fold your hands across your baby's chest and fan your hands outwards to their sides like you are smoothing laundry. Very precious laundry. They love their tummy rubs and this can really help with wind - walk your fingertips across their belly and draw oval shapes around their bellybuttons. Finally, smooth your hands into every little crease and stroke their little toes and fingers. End with a kiss on the nose.
6. Wrap it up
I always ended my baby massage the same way so your newbie gets used to her routine. I usually wrapped them up tightly for a hug afterwards, wiped off any excess oil, changed them and snuggle them up for the night with a feed. It is amazing how relaxed you will feel yourself.
So find your inner zen and enjoy this precious time. Let Daddy jump in too. It will be a welcome relief from massaging your tired and swollen feet!
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