By Swarnam John
Carl Sandburg, the great American poet says, “A baby is God’s opinion that life should go on.” Being a mom is one of the greatest blessings in life. To nourish and cherish a baby, is the cornerstone of the beautiful journey called motherhood.
When my son was an infant, I hardly had any idea of the benefits of baby massage. I used to take my son for a walk in the evenings, putting the baby in a stroller.
Since we were new to the UAE, I hardly had any friends at that time. I befriended a Sindhi grandmother who advised me to give an oil massage to my baby.
At that time we did not have a computer and so, I would visit the local library, with my son in tow to read books about bringing up babies. It was a great learning experience, and proved to be a great boon for bringing up my kids.
Times have changed, my son is just entering his teens, and I always think about the heaven sent Sindhi grandmother who taught me the benefits of baby massage.
Amazing health benefits of massage
Massage time creates a beautiful and loving relationship between you and your baby. The gentle talking and eye contact between the mother and the child is essential for the growth of the baby.
Further, the very activity of the gentle massage, results in increased blood flow and improved body function, which is essential for the growth of the baby.
Research studies say that massage therapy may reduce stress and promotes the development of autonomic nervous system. What is that? You might wonder. Well, the part of nervous system responsible for control of breathing, heartbeat and digestive processes.
See, how the baby massage is important for your cuddly bundle of joy. Research studies say massage helps babies to sleep better, relieve colic, cry less and help your baby to get a peaceful, colic free slumber. It also reduces the stress on your baby.
Massage therapy during the perinatal period (1to 4 weeks after birth) enhances coordination of the developing circadian system with environmental cues. Circadian rhythm is the physical, mental and behavioral changes that follow a roughly 24 hour cycle, which responds to light and dark cycle in the environment.
Studies show that over a six week period, the infants on whom massage therapy was done, gained weight, showed marked improvement on emotional and social behaviors. The infants had greater decreases in urinary stress hormone.
Benefits of olive and Almond oil as massage oil
Olive oil is one of the healthiest vegetable oils. Homer, who knew the health benefits of olive oil, called it the liquid gold.
It is highly beneficial for the skin. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and gives antioxidant protection for your baby’s skin. It does not clog the pores.
This vibrant oil is effective in curing cradle cap. The hydrating properties of olive oil act as a natural remedy. Extra virgin olive oil is highly beneficial to heal diaper rash.
The massaging action increases blood circulation and helps in the healthy development of bones and muscles.
Once we visited an organic farm, where I met a reiki healer, she advised me that massaging is very essential for the muscle and bone development of the babies. When massaged along with a health promoting natural oil, muscles and the bones of the baby get strengthened. So that your baby grows healthy and strong.
My father is a Siddha specialist, once a baby suffering from cerebral palsy was brought to him, the baby did not walk even though it was more than two years old.
My father advised to apply oil and massage the legs of the baby. What a wonder! Within a month the baby started to walk. I wonder the massaging activity would have strengthened the leg muscles of the baby, and it would have even stimulated the nervous system.
Almond oil
This oil is naturally rich in vitamin E and emollients and is pure enough for the sensitive baby’s skin. It is suitable for all skin types and has moisturizing and skin protective properties.
Sweet almond oil helps to retain skin moisture and hydrates the skin. This natural healing oil cures inflammation, eczema and even bacterial rash. It also cures cradle cap.
Almond and olive oils can be excellent oils for massage therapy for babies. Use these oils for your baby massage and watch your kids grow into strong, hale and healthy babies and their innocent, joyous giggles will fill your house with happiness. The sound of the tiny pitter patter feet will make your heart bubble with joy.
May I introduce to you Dabur Baby Massage Oil, which is enriched with the natural goodness of olive and almond oils? This oil is free from harmful parabens and paraffins which are not safe for your baby’s skin.
This oil is packed with vital nutrients essential for your baby’s skin and is packed with all the natural goodness, to give your baby the best start in life.
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