Top 5 Basic Massage Techniques for Baby

Massaging baby requires a gentle technique in the beginning. Once baby becomes accustomed to massage, you can use firmer pressure. Why would you want to massage your baby? Some common sense parents might think massaging a baby is a waste of time. On the contrary, baby massage can soothe your infant, improve circulation and keep fussiness at bay. It can also form a closer bond between parent and child. Think of the mood change you experience after a good massage. Why not give your baby the same benefits? Using these five massage techniques on your baby will help keep him or her happy and healthy for years to come.

1. Massage for baby's stomach. Massaging your baby in this area can help prevent painful gas and cramping. Use very gentle circular motions with fingertips. Be sure to massage just below the stomach as well. This will clear any gas bubbles from the intestinal tract. Use extra caution in this area to prevent injury. Massaging baby's lower back with small circles can also help digestive issues.

2. Baby leg massage. Want to prepare baby gradually for crawling and walking? Massaging legs and feet can help. Start at the thigh. Rub the legs in short strokes using an upward motion, gradually working down to the ankles and feet. Rub the bottom of baby's foot gently in a circular motion with the thumbs. Stretch each toe out very carefully.

3. Baby arm massage. Encircle the arm with your index finger and thumb. Slowly move down to the wrist. Now repeat this motion backwards from wrist to upper arm. Repeat the first motion, then move on to the hands and fingers. Hold each hand one at a time, thumbs on top, fingers on bottom. Use circular motions with the thumbs to massage the top of the hand. Pull gently on each finger.

4. Back and shoulder baby massage. The most important thing to remember here is to never massage the spine. Grip the shoulders and squeeze very gently. As you do this, use a circular motion with thumbs on the shoulder blades. Now move the whole hand to the shoulder blades. Use circular motions all the way down the back. When you come back up, push gently (just enough to see the skin rolling under your hands) and use a straight motion.

5. Face and jaw baby massage. Your baby does a lot of things with these muscles (laughing, crying, sucking etc.). Loosening them up can be very relaxing. Start at the bridge of the nose. Push extremely gently up and across the eyebrows. Always use upward motion on the face. It's gravity defying. Massage cheeks and forehead in a circular upward motion with the fingers. Follow the jaw line from chin to ear with your fingertips.

Please note: For baby massage, always use pure mineral or vegetable oil. Scented oils (yes, even baby oil) can be bad for baby's skin and lungs.


More from this contributor:

5 Ways to Keep a Baby Quiet in Church
Does Your Baby Have Allergies?
How to Teach Your Baby Social Skills