As a parent myself I am all too aware of the importance of a good night’s sleep—not just for babies, but for us parents too! I am also very aware that sleep can be a very tricky subject, filled with lots of emotion and triggers, especially in the first few months of having a baby. Getting our little ones to sleep soundly can sometimes feel like a challenge. However, I am pleased to tell you that there is a natural, gentle and easy way to help your baby relax and and support better sleep; baby massage.
Research* has show that regularly practicing baby massage helps to decrease problems with sleep. Let's take a look into the reasons behind this. (*Research conducted by The Touch Research Institute; Field, T., & Hernandez-Reif, M., (2001). Sleep problems in infants decrease following massage therapy. Early Child Development and Care, 168, 95-104.).
How Does Baby Massage Improve Sleep?
Let’s dive deeper into the key ways baby massage helps your little one drift off into a more peaceful, restorative sleep:
1. Promotes Relaxation
Massage stimulates the production of oxytocin, the “love hormone,” which helps your baby feel calm and secure. As your baby relaxes during the massage, their heart rate slows down, and stress hormones (like cortisol) decrease. This creates the perfect environment for your baby to unwind and fall asleep more easily.
2. Releases Sleep Hormones
One of the most direct ways baby massage promotes sleep is through the release of the sleep hormone melatonin. Regular massage, especially in the evening as part of a bedtime routine, encourages your baby’s body to naturally produce more melatonin. This hormone signals to your baby that it’s time to sleep, helping them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
3. Eases Discomfort
Many babies experience discomfort from colic, wind, or teething, which can make it difficult for them to settle at night. Baby massage can ease this discomfort by supporting digestion, reducing wind, and helping to relax tense muscles. A more comfortable baby is a more restful sleeper.
4. Strengthens the Parent-Baby Bond
The soothing touch of baby massage deepens the emotional connection between you and your baby, providing a sense of safety and security. This emotional closeness helps babies feel more relaxed, which in turn supports better sleep.
Tips for Incorporating Baby Massage into Your Routine
If you’re ready to try baby massage to support your baby’s sleep, here are some tips to get started:
Choose a Calm Time: The best time to massage your baby is when they are in what's known as a "quiet alert" phase. This is when they are calm and happy but also bright and alert. If they are bright-eyed, moving their limbs about, making noises and generally happy, that is a good sign they will be receptive to massage. (If they are overly tired, hungry or just seem unsettled, this would not be a good time to try massage).
Create a Relaxing Atmosphere: Dim the lights, play soft music or lullabies, and make sure the room is warm and quiet. Don't forget a cosy blanket and cushions for you too. This will not only help baby to feel relaxed but you as well, which leads onto my next tip...
Enjoy the Bonding Time: baby massage is a wonderfully relaxing practice for you as well as baby. Try to focus on enjoying the experience and on connecting with baby. Our little ones easily pick up on our moods and a relaxed parent helps them to feel relaxed too. The relaxing effects of baby massage will help you and baby feel better even before bedtime.
Remember Sleep isn't a Linear Journey: I've saved the most important tip till last. I know how hard it can be when your little one isn't sleeping well, but please try to remember that this won't last forever and you will get sleep again (I promise!). If your baby is still young please don't stress yourself trying to create the perfect sleep routine, this will come with time. Just do what works for you at the moment and massage when you can fit it in (or when you remember), you can build a consistent routine when baby is a little older.
In Conclusion
Baby massage is a wonderful way to not only bond with your little one but also to promote better, more restful sleep. By helping your baby relax, releasing sleep-promoting hormones and easing discomfort, massage can set the stage for peaceful nights and happy, well-rested mornings. Moreover, practicing massage promotes relaxation for both you and your baby, boosting overall happiness and well-being, making it truly worthwhile!
Ready to Learn More?
If you’d like to learn more about baby massage or join one of my classes, feel free to reach out! I’d love to help you and your baby discover the benefits of this nurturing practice.
For more information on current and upcoming courses head to the booking page of my website; https://www.thehappybabyhive.com/booknow
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