Baby Massage
History.
The history of infant massage can be traced in every culture throughout the ages and all around our world, from South Indian to Northern Ireland, from Island huts to modern homes. Parents all over the world sense that their baby has intrinsic needs to be held, cradled and touched. This love and nurturing promotes the health and happiness of their baby. However many of these ancient traditions that were passed from parent to child gave way in the early twentieth century in the interest of 'progress'. But now modern science is once again rediscovering the necessity of these traditions, the benefits they hold are numerous and cannot be replaced by scientific alternatives.
Benefits.
Some of the benefits of infant massage are better known than others. The relaxation for baby and caregiver goes with out saying but there are many more:
- Promotes better sleep.
- Relieves colic, wind and tense tummies.
- Aids digestion.
- Boosts the immune system.
- Improves circulation and skin condition.
- Helps waste elimination.
- Increases self-esteem for parents and baby.
- Helps you to learn about your baby- their needs and desires, through eye to eye contact, touch and listening.
- The promotion of bonding and attachment between baby and caregiver.
- New ways of communication are explored.
- It is a truly pleasurable experience.
Research.
Over recent decades there have been many investigations carried out by scientists, physicians and educators on the importance of touch. The results have been outstanding, Dr Leboyer, a researcher in infant massage studies, has commented that " Being touched and caressed, being massaged, is food for the infants; food as necessary as minerals, vitamins and proteins". Touch is simply a need for every human being.
"Bonding is a unique relationship between two people. It is specific and endures through time." M. KLAUS
Aromatherapy History & Benefits
