One of the most important elements in a baby’s proper development is physical contact. Touching achieves physical and emotional development as well as building trust. One of the most effective forms is the touch of the mother during the baby massage.

It is widely accepted that a mother’s touch on her baby builds strong emotional bonds and makes the baby feel accepted and loved. This is especially useful for the rest of the child’s life as it contributes to the formation of his personality and the development of his self-esteem.

In addition to the baby’s psychosomatic development, baby massage has a number of additional benefits. The term “baby massage” refers mainly to ages 3 to 8 months, however massage can be enjoyable and beneficial to children up to the age of three.

Massage for babies:

• has a positive effect on blood circulation,
• activates hidden muscle tensions,
• strengthens muscles,
• makes the joints more elastic,
• helps with sleep,
• strengthens the baby’s immune system and
• is a shield for the mother against postpartum depression.

But how do you properly massage a baby? Below are some helpful tips:

• An important issue is the temperature of the baby’s room. It is very important that the child does not get cold but also does not get hot, so that he can relax and enjoy the massage.
• Lay the baby on a soft surface such as a crib or changing table.
• Before you start the massage, put a few drops of oil on your hand and warm it by rubbing it with your fingers. Beforehand, make sure the baby is not allergic to the oil by putting a small amount on his foot or arm.
• Start the massage with gentle and small movements. If the child shows discomfort, do not continue. Let it cool down and try another time.
• Start with the child’s feet and then work on the heel and toes. Then grasp it from the ankle and up to the thighs. You can rub both feet at the same time or one at a time.
• Then go to the child’s body starting from the shoulders and making small circular movements towards the chest before passing the arms from the shoulders to the wrists.
• Make small circular clockwise movements in the child’s abdomen while using your thumbs on his face. Start at the middle of the face and continue down the perimeter and finally to the cheeks.
• Finally, if the baby continues to enjoy the massage, turn the muzzle and massage the back.

Baby massage is sure to offer moments of enjoyment for both you and your baby.