Your Guide to Baby Massage

Baby massage is a calming practice that can soothe your infant and foster closeness. Besides boosting bonding, gentle massages offer several health advantages for infants, such as helping to ease gas, abdominal cramping, and constipation.

There are many advantages to massaging your baby. With each tender stroke, your little one will sense care and affection, reinforcing the connection between you. Massages also help your baby relax, which may lead to better sleep patterns.

Some studies indicate baby massage could even support healthy growth, though further investigation is required to confirm this.

Not sure how to begin? We’ve created a helpful guide covering the advantages and methods. It outlines everything you need to know about baby massage.

Building bonds through baby massage

Massaging your baby is an excellent method to deepen the bond between you. Trust and communication grow as you interact through touch. Your soothing hands will help your baby feel secure and cherished.

Your infant will likely become calmer during massage. Anecdotal evidence suggests this relaxation may support improved sleep, though more rigorous research is necessary.

Health perks of baby massage

The International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) notes that massage can stimulate the circulatory and digestive systems. This stimulation may help some babies with issues like:

• gas
• cramps
• colic
• constipation

Massaging can also relieve muscle tension, discomfort from growth, and teething-related soreness, and may even encourage growth in premature infants.

That said, a Cochrane review found limited evidence supporting these claimed benefits. Additional studies are needed to substantiate them.

If your baby has medical concerns, consult their pediatrician before starting massage to make sure it’s appropriate.

When to begin baby massage

The IAIM recommends introducing gentle touch right after birth.

Many parents begin by placing the newborn on their chest, skin-to-skin. This skin-to-skin contact, often called kangaroo care, is a soothing way to start. While holding your baby close, gently stroke their legs and back, then progress to the arms and other areas.

After the initial weeks, you can start more formal massage routines. Always follow your baby’s cues — they should be calm, alert, and comfortable. Never use techniques that appear to distress them.

The Mayo Clinic advises that massage is not appropriate when your baby turns away or stiffens their limbs. They also recommend waiting at least 45 minutes after feeding, since massaging too soon after a meal can trigger vomiting.

How often to give baby massages

Frequency depends on you and your baby. Some families massage daily, while others do it every other day.

You might choose a morning routine to start the day or a nighttime session to help your baby wind down for sleep. Observe your infant’s signals to determine the best schedule.

Techniques for massaging your baby

Below are tips and methods to help you and your baby get the most from massage time.

Create a comfortable setting

Massage in a warm, quiet environment.

Ensure both you and your baby are comfortable. Lay a towel down and place your baby on their back so you can maintain eye contact. This can be on a changing pad or your bed. Let your baby know massage time is starting as you undress them.

Begin gently

Lay your baby on their back and start by slowly stroking each part of their body. Keep your touch soft at the beginning.

Spend a little time on each area, beginning with the head and moving down to the feet. There’s no strict duration for the massage; each section should last as long as both you and your baby are comfortable and enjoying it.

You can also try a brief tummy massage with your baby on their belly, though some infants may not enjoy being on their stomach for long periods.

Repeat the sequence

If you and your baby are having a pleasant time, repeat the strokes, starting again at the head and working toward the feet.

Keep communicating

Talk to your baby throughout the massage. Use their name and say words like “relax” to help soothe them.

You can tell a short story or sing a nursery rhyme while you move around their body.

Oils are optional

Some parents avoid oil because it’s messy; others prefer it to reduce skin friction. If you choose to use oil, select a fragrance-free, edible option since babies often put hands in their mouths.

Test any oil on a small patch of skin first to check for reactions, especially if your baby has sensitive skin or allergies.

Final thoughts

Baby massage is a lovely, calming activity that comforts your child and strengthens your bond. If it doesn’t feel natural at first, don’t be discouraged.

With practice, you and your baby will become more comfortable with the routine. Each session helps deepen your loving connection. Keep practicing — your baby will benefit.