The Basics of Infant massage

Most babies love having their chest and back rubbed. But avoid doing so when baby have a fill tummy or is hungry.

• Massage is very soothing, esp if used in combination with story or song. It doesn't have to do anythingfancy - a constant circular motion on the back or belly will do. You can also gently stroke your baby's face or massage her hands. make sure the room in which you're giving the massage is warm and free of drafts
• Always pur together the massage oil in your palms. the perfect oil to use is plain sweet almond oil
• Remove baby's clothing - but you might want to keep diaper in place, esp if your lovely baby is a boy. Otherwise, you might be in for an unpleasant surprise. Also, remove any jewelry before giving a massage to reduce the risk of injury or irritants
• Always ask permission to massage before you begin, even if baby is too young to understand your request or to offer a respnse. This will help to instill a sense of body ownership and healthy touch when child is older
• To massage the head and face, use small circular motions with your fingertips around the forehead, brow line, temples and jawline. try to maintain a hand-over action so that one hand is always in motion during the massage. Do not massage near the eyes or fontanel (soft spot on the head)
• when massaging arms and legs, simple downward strokes are effective. Don;t forget about those tiny fingers and feet!