Infant Massage: A Wonderful Way to Bond with your Newborn

In the first few months after birth, establishing a routine not only helps your new baby get into a better sleeping pattern, but also serves to set a rhythm for your own life and tasks. Consider creating a massage ritual for you and your little one - after a bath, before bed or nap time often work well.
The first thing to remember when establishing a massage routine with your little one is to choose a moment in which both you and your child are relaxed and calm. A half hour after baby has eaten is recommended. Be sure that the room temperature is warm. Undress your baby completely, if the weather is cold or humid cover the areas of the baby's body that are not being massaged. Put the baby on a soft surface so your baby will feel comfortable and secure. Keep some little pillows handy. It is a good idea to put some cream on your hands and rub them together so they will be soft and warm.
Basically the massage flows from the head to the toes. With soft and gentle touches you will work on the head, face, shoulders, arms, chest, stomach and legs.
While you massage your baby look tenderly at him/her. Doing this you stimulate all the senses of the baby and establish a more intense visual and tactile communication. Feel free to speak to your baby, do not inhibit yourself. You might also like to play soft music or a favourite cd.
Remember that your touches should be tender do not make mechanic motions. Try to be flexible by not keeping a rigid routine. If the baby wants to change position let them do so. Do not force your baby to maintain a particular position, as you can always return to any missed areas later on.
Close your eyes and press your eyelids. The pressure you should use is the same as pressing your eyelids without any discomfort. In the small areas use your fingertips. In bigger areas use the palm of your hand. "Little strokes" mean to touch your baby's skin gently and "massage" is to softly move the muscles under the skin. Work your gentle massage strokes from the forehead and face, down the neck into circles around the belly. Gently roll your baby's arms and legs between your hands (as if making a snake out of play-doh). If your baby is calm enough to lie on their belly, you can make circles across the back and long strokes down the legs. Don't forget the hands and feet! Use gentle squeezes and light pressure points on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Remember, intention is everything! With a warm heart, and warm hands, begin and end your baby's massage with loving words and big smiles. Enjoy!