Infant Massage
 Infant massage has been enjoyed by many cultures
for centuries, and research has shown it to have many benefits.
Numerous studies have found that massage plays a significant role
in promoting the proper growth and healthy development of infants.
Physically, massage stimulates the nerves, increases blood flow
and strengthens the immune system. It can relieve a host of childhood
complaints from colic to constipation. Research has also shown
that massage helps the body to release tension, which often arises
from having to adapt to the world outside the womb.
Massage enhances the process of bonding between a parent and
their baby and helps to establish a warm, loving relationship.
It also enables parents to learn about and respond to their
baby’s body language.
Communicating through touch is very powerful and can provide
lifelong benefits. Forming good communication in the early
years between parent and child is the key to a secure relationship
that will develop and grow beyond adolescence.
Benefits of infant massage for your baby
- Helps develop early infant communication
- Decreases the production of
stress hormones
- Stimulates nutrient flow
to the baby ’s cells
- Reduces both heart rate and
blood pressure, resulting
in a more restful state
- Helps reduce the discomfort
of colic, wind and constipation
- Helps regulate and strengthen
baby’s digestive and respiratory systems and stimulate
circulatory and nervous systems
- Develops body, mind awareness
and coordination
- Improves skin condition
Benefits of infant massage for parents
- Helps parents to understand baby’s non-verbal communication
- Enhances parents confidence
and competence in dealing
with their baby
- Both parent and baby relax
together
- May help reduce post natal
depression
What is Infant Massage?
Infant massage is made up of several different strokes including,
Indian and Swedish Massage and
Reflexology.
The massage is not manipulative in the way an adult massage may be, just gentle
strokes that are long, slow and rhythmic, with just enough pressure to be comfortable
but stimulating.
Introduce massage a little at a time to allow baby to become accustomed to
the new routine and not over stimulated.
Benefits of Infant Massage Classes
Learning infant massage could not be easier. A Certified Infant
Massage Instructor will guide you through the stroke sequence
answering any questions you may have.
You will be advised what oils are safe to use on your baby, when the best time
is to massage and how to recognize and respond to your baby’s cues during
massage.
Massage is a beautiful way to communicate with your baby. It provides quality
time together, enhancing the bonding process, while offering many other physical
and emotional benefits.
Book a class
If
you are interested in attending an Infant Massage Class or
would like any further information please contact NZ Academy of Infant Massage
nzaim@annakbabycare.co.nz
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