Infant massage: healing touch for a stronger bond
Infant massage: healing touch for a stronger bond
When I became a new mom, I worked long hours as a pediatric occupational therapist in both school and clinic settings. After picking up my daughter from daycare, our evenings were short—just enough time for a little play, dinner, a bath, and then bedtime. Wanting to make the most of our limited time together, I searched for ways to strengthen our bond. Thankfully, a co-worker recommended an infant massage class led by an instructor trained in the International Association of Infant Massage method. During and after the four-week course, I began incorporating massage into our bedtime routine, and the results were incredible! My daughter responded with deep eye contact, a sense of calm, and noticeable happiness. She also slept longer and had fewer tummy troubles. Most importantly, our bond grew even stronger through these quiet, intentional moments together.
Why has infant massage been practiced for thousands of years across diverse cultures? The benefits are well-researched and include:
Strengthens The Bond Between Parent/Child: releases “feel good” hormones between infant and parent fostering feelings of attachment
Improved Sleep: helps put baby in a relaxed state which helps them to sleep longer and more peacefully.
Better Digestion: Gentle massage to the tummy can help reduce baby’s gas, constipation and colic discomfort.
Enhanced Development: Stimulates all of the baby’s systems, including, circulatory, neurological, lymphatic and increases sensory awareness
Stress Reduction: decreases the stress hormone cortisol and promotes relaxation.
Increases cognitive and social development: massage helps parents respond to their baby’s cues improving communication between parent and baby.
Why should you choose an International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM) class?
The benefits of the curriculum are well-established and has been shared with babies and parents around the world for the last 40 years.
IAIM’s instructors undergo a rigorous and well-supervised certification process.
The parent classes use a baby-led approach that allows the family to create their own rhythm.
The 4-week classes are fun and instructional. They allow the parents to learn the strokes, use them at home and return each week to share experiences and ask questions.
Group classes aim to create a nurturing and non-judgmental community for parents and babies.
Final Thoughts
Practicing infant massage with your baby will strengthen your bond with them and help foster their healthy growth and development. As you continue to practice, you'll notice the benefits for your baby - improved sleep, and an overall better sense of well-being. Have you tried infant massage with your little one?