9 Baby Massage Tips That Can Help Your Baby Develop Stronger Joints
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Your baby is the most important person in your life. They become your priority ever since they are born, and you always want the best for them. When a newborn comes into this world, the most common thing that parents worry about is the development of their joints and bones. Healthy bone development is crucial to a baby’s growth. It prevents fractures and osteoporosis later in life. Practicing a healthy lifestyle and the right nutrition aids in strong bone development. Foods rich in calcium and protein make bones strong, but there are other ways to strengthen bone development. Curious to know more about it. Scroll down to find out.
We are talking about massage! Massaging infants help them in several ways. Research shows that infant massages have the following benefits (1):
- Promotes sleep
- Encourage interaction
- Helps your baby relax
- Reduces stress
- Reduces crying
Don’t forget to use calming oils for your baby’s massage. The best oil for your baby’s sensitive skin is coconut oil. Now that we’ve looked at the benefits of infant massage, let’s dive into some simple tips to help your baby develop stronger joints:
1. Start With Effleurage
Effleurage is a term used to describe a massage technique that involves repeated circular stroking movements. This technique acts as a warm-up for your baby and prepares them for what’s next. A simple massage tip to keep in mind is to engage in an up-down motion towards your baby’s legs.
2. The Right Combination Of Fingers And Palms
Your baby’s body is soft. Therefore, it’s vital that you use your hands gently to stroke your baby. Use the base of your palms to massage your baby gently. Be careful not to add too much pressure as you don’t want to hurt your baby. Or worse, break their legs. Baby bodies are different from adult bodies and cannot handle too much pressure.
3. Stretch Lightly
While massaging your baby, gently stretch their legs to full length to relax them. This helps in the smooth flow of the massage techniques that you’ve been following. Stretching your baby’s legs will enable the muscles to relax and strengthen at the same time.
4. Always Be Tender
Being tender is something you should never forget. Massaging, stretching, and gently tapping your baby’s feet are techniques that will help them develop strong bones, joints, and muscles. But don’t forget to be super tender while doing them.
5. Massage The Feet
Who doesn’t like a good foot rub? We know you do, but so does your baby. Don’t miss out on massaging their tiny feet gently and slowly in circular motions. They will enjoy a good foot rub and will feel relaxed through the process.
6. Warm Oil
Using warm oil is good for your baby. It improves blood circulation and general health. It relaxes your baby and reduces stress levels.
7. Massage The Knees
Don’t forget the knees. They are an essential part of the body and play a vital role in standing and walking. Massage your baby’s knees in circular motions and prepare them for your little one’s first steps.
8. Place Your Baby On Your Legs
While massaging your baby, place them on your legs and allow them to stretch. By avoiding the floor, you protect your baby from the cold. The warmth on your legs will keep your baby warm during the massage.
9. Natural Oil
Your baby will put everything and anything into their mouth. Therefore, ensure you use oils with natural ingredients that do not harm your baby even if they put their oiled hands and feet into their mouths.
Massaging your baby might be scary because you are afraid that it will hurt them. But with the right techniques and guidance from a medical professional or an experienced person, you will ace it in no time. Just like a massage relaxes an adult, a baby reaps its benefits too. Therefore, get those hands moving and massage your baby to total relaxation. Now that you’re aware of the benefits of a good massage share this article with your loved ones to educate them too!
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