Benefits of infant massage
The only way to fully understand the benefits of infant massage is to experience them! Join an IAIM class and learn a skill that lasts a lifetime - click here to find an instructor.
What is Infant Massage?
Touch is the first and most vital sensory experience. Research shows that our earliest experiences with touch can affect every aspect of our lives. Nurturing touch (or the lack of it) can impact the way we think, feel and relate to others.
Infant massage uses gentle, tactile stimulation and loving verbal communication to deepen the relationship between a parent and their baby. It is a shared experience, done with the baby not to the baby. The strokes used can be both stimulating and relaxing, depending on each baby's needs and developmental level. It is easy to learn and is a pleasant method of positive interaction.
Infant massage improves communication
The close interaction helps improve the ability to understand your baby's body language. They will respond with more sensitivity and confidence. Baby feels heard and respected, and grows up with a healthy self-image.
Infant massage helps your baby sleep soundly
New mothers or carers can become desperate to find a way to get the sleep they need. Infant massage is a key tool to help your baby sleep soundly and can also be used beyond the infant stage to help an older child sleep. This alone is reason enough for many carers to learn the skill!
Infant massage enhances bonding
Eye to eye and skin contact, and the exchange of soothing sounds and smells, cuddles and smiles all help parent and baby feel closer.
Infant massage relaxes and soothes
A pleasurable experience for both parent and child. The enhanced bonding and relaxation also aids in recovery from post-natal depression.
Infant massage helps relieve colic and tummy discomfort
Specific massage techniques are taught to help improve digestion.
Infant massage stimulates baby's physiological development
Research studies show that the respiratory, muscular, circulatory and immune systems all benefit from the positive effects of massage.
Infant massage promotes neurological development
Baby's ability to handle stimulation is increased. Brain development is enhanced.
Infant massage offers shared moments together
It provides working parent(s) with a special time to unwind and re-connect with their baby.
Above all infant massage is relaxing and fun!!! Learn how to massage your baby with a Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI) from the IAIM. Use our directory to locate a CIMI in your area or read on to learn more about infant massage classes.
Other pages to learn about infant massage:
