Is Baby Massage all it's cracked up to be?

Great question! As a Baby Massage Teacher of a few years now, I can tell you that it depends on what you're expecting. If you are hoping for a room full of blissed out babies, smiling as they drift off to sleep while their peaceful parent gazes adoringly at them and tops up the massage oil to continue gliding their hands across their infant's skin, then - for sure - baby massage will not feel like all it's cracked up to be!

Babies have no idea we have decided it's massage time for them! Maybe they are actually hungry and would prefer some milk - please. Maybe they are desperately trying to poo and lying down does not feel good (if they do need to poo I can definitely help you there! I've lost count of poo-namis following the tummy strokes!). Maybe they are fascinated by the room and the other babies and they'd like to join in but it's just all too much and they need a cuddle and a nap instead.

Maybe they are a colic or reflux baby. They may struggle to lie down on their back and be generally unsettled. I wish to God I could tell you that Baby Massage will cure your baby's reflux, colic and wind problems. I would run a mile from a Teacher who tells you it will - it absolutely won't. But it will give you more tools in your parenting tool box to cope with these stressful issues and it will help to decrease their general discomfort.

See the next blog for how to cope if - no, I'm gonna say WHEN your baby is unhappy in class and not wanting to be massaged. It is very common and normal.

See the 20sec quick vid at the end for a taster of tummy strokes if you're in need!

However, If you're looking for:

• Ideas for ways to connect with your baby

• Tips and tricks to help with soothing

• Ways to increase their comfort levels (by increasing their endorphins (body's natural pain reliever) through massage)

• Ways to help them build proprioception (this is understanding which way is up and that they have a body - they don't know this when they're born!)

• some structure to your loving touch

• confidence that you're massaging them beautifully

• knowledge that you're supporting their development

• community with other parents

• lots of baby care questions discussed and answered

• a cuppa and a chat

Then a resounding YES! Baby Massage is all it's cracked up to be. You can join my new Nurture Harmonics Baby Massage (starts Wed 3rd Sept 10.30am in Ruislip) which will add therapeutic sound to the session which will bring even more benefit, not just for baby but for you too.

Taster of 3 Tummy strokes in this vid: