Baby Massaging

婴儿按摩：如何以及为什么你需要做的是

Baby massages have a variety benefits. With each gentle stroke, your baby will feel nurtured and loved, strengthening the bond between the two of you. Massages will also allow your baby to feel more relaxed, which may improve their sleep.

Some research suggests baby massage might even promote healthy growth, although further research is needed.

Not sure where to start? We’ve put together a handy guide on the benefits and techniques. It’ll teach you all you need to know about baby massages.

Bonding through baby massage

Baby massages are a great way to bring you and your little one closer. Trust and communication develop as you interact with your baby. Your calming touch will make your baby feel loved and cared for, too.

Your baby will also feel relaxed during a massage. Anecdotal reports suggest this relaxation may help improve their sleep, but more research is needed.

The health benefits of baby massage

According to the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM), baby massage may help to stimulate the circulatory and digestive systems. This might, in turn, help some babies with conditions such as:

gas

cramps

colic

constipation

Massages may also help ease muscular tension, growing pains, and teething discomfort, as well as stimulate growth in preterm infants.

However, a Cochrane systematic review found little evidence for these reported benefits. More research is needed to support these claims.

If your baby has any health issues, you should speak with their doctor first to decide if you should massage your baby.

Many moms and dads love to do so by placing their baby on their chest, bare skin to bare skin. This is known as skin-to-skin care or kangaroo care. While you’re holding your baby close, gradually start stroking their legs and back. Then move on to other areas such as the arms.

After the first few weeks of birth, you can begin massaging your baby. However, make sure to follow your baby’s mood. Your baby should be calm, alert, and content when you’re ready to give them a massage. Never perform any massage technique that seems to make your baby uncomfortable.

It’s not the best time for a massage when your baby turns their head away from you or stiffens their arms, according to the Mayo Clinic. The Mayo Clinic also suggests waiting at least 45 minutes after a feeding. Performing a baby massage too soon after they eat can cause vomiting.