The international Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) uses a combination of Indian and Swedish Massage strokes, Reflexology and gentle Yoga stretches. The massage strokes encourage circulation and relaxation, the Reflexology works on the feet to release tension elsewhere in the body, and the yoga stretches help to develop suppleness in the muscles and joints. The combined effect promotes:
- brain development through better sensory awareness
- relaxation for parent and child
- better sleep patterns
- easing of discomfort from growing pains, gas and constipation
- emotional development through establishing a stronger bond
There are many benefits for both parents and babies as outlined by the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) and summarised below:
Stimulation
Stimulation of the body’s different systems, including the musculoskeletal, digestive, circulatory, nervous, immune and hormonal systems. Massage also stimulates brain development and body awareness. One-on-one time with your baby promotes two-way communication which is important for the attachment and bonding process.
Relief
From discomfort and pain caused by wind, gas, colic and constipation; sinus congestion; teething; growing pains; and muscle tension. Premature and babies with special needs are at risk of sensitivity to touch which can be gradually relieved with nurturing touch and regular massage.
Interaction
Interaction by massaging your baby on a regular basis you learn to read their non-verbal communication cues. Baby massage is an intimate time encouraging one-to-one time with your baby and providing nurturing and loving touch, whilst encouraging eye contact and two-way communication. The outcome is that you learn to respect and understand your baby, and that your baby learns to trust you and adore your loving hands. This assists the bonding and attachment process that is essential for any parent (mother or father) and their baby.
Relaxation
Regular massage has been demonstrated to increase a baby’s ability to sleep deeply and reduce their stress hormones due to the release of oxytocin (the love hormone also released during breast feeding). Massage helps to regulate behavioural states so babies can stay calmer for longer, and encourage relaxation, whilst increasing the baby’s ability to process touch, reducing hyper-activity and hyper-sensitivity, which allows them to relax more easily.
Post Natal Depression
Typically women suffering from postnatal depression (PND) have problems relating to their baby. They can appear indifferent and communicate less with their baby compared to mothers without PND. Babies of mothers with PND may behave distressed with excessive crying or alternatively by becoming withdrawn. Baby massage has been shown to significantly improve mother-baby interactions of mothers with PND. It is suggested this is due to the release of the love hormone oxytocin that is released during massage in both the mother and baby, which promotes the bonding and attachment process. In turn, this breaks the cycle of detachment and withdrawal by mother and baby that can last up to 18 months in some cases. Ref: Glover, K et al (2002), ‘Benefits of infant massage for mothers with postnatal depression’. Semin Neonatol 7: 495-500.
Interaction in Baby Massage can also support:
- Promotion of bonding and secure attachment
- Verbal/non-verbal communication
- Development of trust and confidence
- Using all the senses
- Feelings of love, respect, and being valued
- Each Massage May Stimulate:
- Circulatory and digestive systems
- Hormonal and immune systems
- Coordination and balance
- Learning and concentration
- Muscular development and growth
- Mind and body awareness