Research specific to the benefits of infant massage has been ongoing since the mid 1970’s. This research has been conducted at various institutes and with infants who were premature, exposed to drugs in utero, and infants that had motor problems. All these categories of babies benefited from the nurturing touch of infant massage. These benefits included weight gain, neurological development, decreased hospitalization, and improved digestion.
Benefits of infant massage include:
Relaxes Infant
Loving touch lessens tension, fussiness and irritability. Digestion is aided and this can provide relief of gas and colic. Massage is also a wonderful way to lessen stress for parent and baby.
Enhances Bonding
Touch conveys nurturing and love, the essential ingredients for emotional and physical growth and well-being.
Aids Growth and Development
Studies have shown increased weight gain, and immune function. Myelination of nerves is also increased. These things are needed for brain and muscle development.
Promotes Communication
Parents become more aware of baby’s nonverbal cues. One-on-one communication instills a message of love and security.
Improves Baby’s Sleep
As your infant learns to relax and release stress, sounder and longer sleep is often the end result.
