Introduction to baby massage techniques

Jan 7th 2009

Techniques are based on a combination of Swedish massage, Indian massage, reflexology and yoga. Prior to becoming a baby massage instructor I trained in Swedish body massage, Indian head massage and reflexology. Baby massage has a wonderful holisitic approach to all these areas.

A routine of strokes across the stomach work wonders at relieving the pain caused by colic and trapped wind. Both of my sons suffered terribly with trapped wind and I found that the only way to relieve their agony (and my sleepless nights!) was with baby massage. It is important to always work in the clockwise direction of the intestines to help the natural flow.

Baby massage can even help to relieve blocked noses. A simple massage down the bridge of the nose towards the cheek bones can help drain the stuffy congestion made worse by not being able to blow their noses yet. Another hot tip is to rub down the outside of the thumb or the big toe. This is a reflexology stroke based on the principle that this area of the hand or foot represents the sinuses. If you are sceptical, try it on yourself and you will feel your sinuses draining clear!

4 Responses to “Introduction to baby massage techniques”

  1. Katie Lye said:

    Hi!

    I went to Kerry’s classes when my son Sam was 8 weeks old. He has always been very active and Thursday mornings were one of the only times that he chilled out!!! It was also great to have a supportive environment to go to and chat to other mums.

    From then on I massaged Sam every day and he loved it. He become more comfortable on his tummy and his colic was greatly reduced.

    Even now at 18 months, Sam loves to have his feet tickled and stroked and at most bedtimes asks for these areas to have a little massage.

    I totally recommend Kerry’s massage classes!

  2. Emily de Oliveira said:

    I had a 1 to 1 session with Kerry and my 9 week old son - it was FAB!

    Being able to learn how to massage in my own home was great as my son was totally relaxed in his surroundings and completly relaxed in to the massage!

    The techniques are easy to learn and the information sheets mean I can show my husband how to do it as well.

    I would totally recommend Kerry for a 1 to 1 and am looking forward to a relaxed little boy at bedtimes!!!

  3. Kerry Walgrove said:

    I had a great 1:1 with Kerry and now I regularly massage my 5 week old daughter. Massage has helped her, and I, deal with her wind, colic and constipation. At the end of each session she is a lot calmer and it proves to be a great bonding opportunity for us both. I would highly recommend Kerry’s 1:1 for anyone wanting to learn ways to help and soothe their baby.

  4. Joanna Biggs said:

    Carys and I just wanted to say a big thank you for the massage course. She is still loving it, and yesterday I gave her a full massage around 4pm and then gave her milk and she slept through till midnight only waking up once to eat (she has NEVER done this, she’s usually very colicky and upset from 4pm - 9pm ish). We’ve done the colic routine on her four or five times and it’s settled her every time. I’m so glad we decided to do this!

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