Infant Massage – Interview With Disha Gehani, Founder of Tiny Touch

Infant massage is a powerful practice that holds numerous benefits for both babies and parents. In this article, we will delve into the world of infant massage, exploring its origins, benefits, and how it can positively impact the development and bonding between parents and their little ones, as well as promoting relaxation and better sleep in infants. We will also discuss the appropriate techniques and timing for incorporating massage into a baby’s routine. So let’s dive in and explore how this nurturing touch can positively influence your baby’s overall development.

Did you know that infant massage can support parents and babies in a healthy and holistic way? In this episode of the podcast Disha and I discuss the benefits of touch and debunk the myth that too much touch or holding can spoil a baby. The importance of bonding and emotional development through touch and how infant massage can positively impact breastfeeding and postpartum depression. So, let’s begin our journey into the world of infant massage.

The Role of Touch in Infant Development

Touch is the first sense to develop in the womb and plays a vital role in a baby’s overall development. Through touch, babies gain knowledge about the world, the people around them, and the objects in their environment. It is the foundation for building connections and understanding their surroundings. Contrary to the misconception that too much touch or holding can spoil a baby, touch is crucial for their physical and emotional growth.

Babies rely on touch to develop their nervous system, brain, and emotional well-being. When parents hold and cuddle their babies, they provide essential support for these developmental processes. Touching a baby helps regulate their heart rate, stabilize blood sugar levels, maintain body temperature, and establish a sense of security and trust in their caregivers. The early years of a child’s life set the foundation for future relationships and emotional well-being, making touch an integral part of their development.

The Benefits of Infant Massage

Massage is an effective and nurturing way to bond with and support babies. It offers a wide range of benefits for both full-term and preterm infants, as well as babies with special needs. Here are some of the key advantages of infant massage:

1. Bonding and Connection: Infant massage fosters a strong bond between parents and babies. Through touch, parents learn to understand their baby’s nonverbal cues, respond to their needs respectfully, and create a secure and trusting relationship.
2. Soothing and Comfort: Massage helps soothe babies and addresses common concerns such as constipation, gastrointestinal cramps, and mucous discomfort. It equips parents with natural techniques to alleviate these challenges.
3. Emotional Development: Touch, combined with communication and interaction, aids in emotional development. Massage encourages the baby’s brain and nervous system to integrate and respond to touch, facilitating emotional and physical development simultaneously.
4. Breastfeeding Support: Massage plays a crucial role in breastfeeding by promoting the release of oxytocin and serotonin, which enhance the bond between the parent and the baby. It can also help parents manage feelings of anxiety and depression, offering an effective tool for emotional well-being.
5. Developmental Support: Massage stimulates the nervous system and promotes myelination, which is vital for the transmission of impulses along nerve cells. It aids in the baby’s overall development, including sensory integration, body awareness, and language development

The Connection Between Massage and Infant Sleep

Massage has been found to have a positive impact on promoting calm and regulated infant behavior, ultimately leading to better sleep. One of the reasons for this is the production of a hormone called melatonin, which plays a crucial role in regulating sleep. Melatonin is controlled by the circadian system, and when you massage your baby, it helps stimulate the production of melatonin. Consequently, this promotes better sleep patterns and helps your baby sleep longer.

Incorporating Massage into a Bedtime Routine

If you are considering utilizing massage to help with your baby’s sleep, incorporating it into a bedtime routine can be beneficial. For example, if your baby’s bedtime is around 7 or 8 pm, you can start massaging them approximately 30 minutes before their bedtime routine. Creating a calming atmosphere with dim lighting and soft music can enhance the relaxation experience. It is important to use natural and organic oils, such as coconut oil or grapeseed oil, as these are gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin. Avoid using fragrances or oils high in folic acid, like olive oil, as they may not absorb easily into the baby’s skin.

Congratulations, new parents, you’re now armed with the secret weapon of infant massage! With Disha’s expert advice and a sprinkle of humor, you’re ready to embark on this delightful journey of touch, love, and laughter. Embrace the magic of massage, cherish those precious moments, and let the bond between you and your baby flourish like never before. Happy massaging!

This episode, Shelly and Nicole talk with Disha Gehani, infant massage therapist and owner of Tiny Touch. 

Topics discussed:

• how vital touch and massage is to infant growth and development
• how to incorporate infant massage into your daily routine
• conditions infant massage can help with

Nicole and Shelly also talk about how blue light can change your sleeping patterns, and whether cry-it-out method is a good idea.

Resources discussed:

• Tiny Touch 
• Follow us on Instagram
• Virtual Prenatal and Childbirth Classes
• Email questions to [email protected]