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| Baby Bonding Through Massage Touch is an important way to promote a baby's wellbeing and sence of security. Our skin is our largest organ, and your baby's is particularly sensitive. Touch is a new sensation to them, since spending so much time in the womb without experiencing it. It's important to stimulate your baby's sence of touch, just as you would his visual and auditory development. Massage is a great way to do that. Some scientists even believe that gently rubbing your baby's body can can be beneficial to his development and have linked baby massage to the lowering of stress hormones, an icrease in immune responses, improve regulation of breathing, blood circulation, metabolism and digestion. In some cases it can help restless babies fall asleep and colicky babies can often be calmed by gently massaging their bellies. In addition to the physical benfits, massage helps your baby feel secure, protected and loved. It's also a wonderful way for you to communicate with your baby as you can watch just how his body responds to your touch. Look out for mum and baby massage classes near you, they're a great way to meet other mums in your area while bonding with your baby. Pick a good time Make sure your baby's relaxed and you won't be interupted. If your baby is hungry or too full, they won't enjoy the massage. Many parents find the best time for a massage is just after your baby's bath. If you want to give them short but frequent massages, you can try it when you change their nappy. Pick a good spot Babies like their massages in warm rooms, or ones that are as close to their body temperatures as possible. You can place your baby on their changing table, a towel, blanket, your bed or a pillow covered with a towel. Try oils or lotions Gently warming baby oil, vegetable oil or some baby lotion in your hands before beginning may make the massage even more soothing. Talk to your baby Tell your baby what you're up to, perhaps naming individual body parts as you massage them. Smile at your baby and speak softly to them, this will all help therm feel more relaxed and secure. |
