What is baby massage:
Baby massage has been used for thousands of years, as a way to bond with and care for babies. It enables the person massaging the baby to recognise what baby likes and dislikes.
By learning your babies cues it makes it easier for your baby to communicate his / her feelings, and for you to meet those needs.
Baby massage is used in Asian and African countries, as part of daily life. However, somehow throughout the generations, baby massage has been lost in the Western world. Baby massage is not new, but is being reintroduced to the Western world. By attending baby massage classes, you can learn the power of positive touch.
Benefits of baby massage:
Baby massage has many benefits for both the baby and the care giver.
Benefits for babies:
- Supports the bonding process
- Improves the blood circulation, digestion, and balance
- Conveys a conciousness of love, acceptance, and security
- The baby learns how to relax and become calmer
- The baby feels respected that his/her needs are cared for and respected
- Can improve sleep patterns
- May provide relief for wind, colic, and pain caused by other digestive problems
- May improve your babies sleep patterns
Benefits for parents:
- Supports bonding and relaxation
- Increased parental competence in relating to and handling the baby
- Increases prolactin / oxytocin (the hormone which furthers "motherly instincts" and wellbeing)
- Positive effects extending to other relationships i.e. partner, other children
- Baby massage class offers parents and care givers the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences, and also to meet new people
IAIM Mission Statement:
The purpose of the International Association of Infant Massage is to promote nurturing, touch and communication through training, education and research so that parents, care givers and children are loved valued and respected throughout the world community.
