Benefits of Infant Massage by Amy Dawson

It has been an absolute delight teaching infant massage at Ngaio Natural Health Centre over the past year.  I have met such wonderful parents with their beautiful babies.

It is a joy to see the connection that parents and their babies have during a massage session. I see parents grow in confidence in the way they interact and use touch to communicate with their little ones, all while the babies become increasingly eager to experience massage.

The more I research about the positive effects of touch on a baby’s development, the more I become impassioned to pass on the amazing skills of infant massage.  In babies, positive touch can reduce stress levels, improve sleep patterns and support muscular development. In the longer term, the child has improved ability to access the relaxation response, self-sooth and build resilience.  *If you'd like to know more, check out the links I recommend below.

It has been lovely hearing from parents on how much they have enjoyed the course; the impact massage has had on their babies and their relationship.
 
“My baby is calmer, relaxed and sleepy straight after a massage”
“It has been a wonderful opportunity to further connect with my baby”
“Really enjoyable, great to create a stronger bond with my baby”
 
 * Recommended links for more info about the benefits of Infant Massage
www.iaim.net/benefits/  
www.urbanchildinstitute.org/articles/research-to-policy/research/enhancing-development-through-the-sense-of-touch
www.iaim.net/infant-massage-stress-and-relaxation/
www.parentingscience.com/secure-attachment-relationships.html

by Amy Dawson 
Massage Therapist

Infant Massage courses with Amy Dawson at Ngaio Natural Health Centre

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