Massage tips for babies

Bracelets, rings and long nails might hurt your baby accidentally as baby's skin is soft. So, keep your fingernails short and keep aside the jewelry you wear on hands when you are massaging the baby.

Spread a changing mat or a soft towel on a flat surface and undress the baby. Put the baby down with his or her face up.

Rub only about half-a-teaspoon of oil at a time on your palms, so that they glide easily on the baby's body. You can apply more oil later as needed.

Make sure that your palms are warm. Aromatherapy oils for adults may not be suitable for the baby.

Use smooth, gentle but firm strokes with your palm or fingers. Light circular movements on chest and stomach, stroking across the shoulders, downward movement on the arms and legs and upward movements on the back are the best.

Keep the baby engaged while massaging him or her by talking or singing to the infant.

Eye contact with the baby ensures him or her of your undivided attention.

Do not oil baby's palms or fingers as these little ones tend to put them in their mouths or eyes often, which may cause irritation.

Do not massage the baby just before or after feeding, or when the baby is ill.

Do not put too much pressure on the baby's fragile body and avoid the spine area.

Wrap the baby in a clean and warm towel after the massage and cuddle him or her.

Avoid rashes, wounds or areas where the baby has got his injections or vaccines as it may hurt.