Neonatal age comes with many challenges as there are many factors that can hamper their growth and body development. Therefore, body massage for a growing baby is beneficial to strengthen their bones and muscles, suggests Dr. Rajyalakshmi Madhavam, MD Ayurveda, Professor at AMD Ayurvedic Medical College, Hyderabad. “We practice Abhyanga or massage for the baby, generally one week after birth. The massage should be done very carefully and with very gentle pressure” she says. However, it is always recommended that you consult your doctor once before practicing anything on the baby because they are very delicate at this age.
Benefits
- Relieves fatigue
- Improves blood circulation
- It improves the digestive power, which is usually weak during the monsoon season, and appetite in the babies.
- Enhances the skin texture of the baby
- Nourishes the hair
- Bones, joints, and muscles are strengthened
- Improves immunity and prevents certain skin infections.
Step-By-Step
Dr. Rajyalakshmi explains the order that one must follow while massaging the baby, i.e. which body part, to begin with.
- Head
- Feet
- Arms and legs
- Abdomen and chest
- Back
“There are not just physical benefits, but massaging also creates emotional bonding between the mother and the child. Therefore, regular Abhyanga, especially from October to January, should be followed 7 days a week.”