Baby massage has plenty of benefits, writes Sarah Bunker
Whether it's ironing out the knots or relaxing into a stupor, we all know massage is great for our body and mind. What about children and babies, can they also reap the rewards?
"Absolutely," says qualified infant massage instructor Louise Wilson. "Gentle massage is a great way to calm and relax your baby. You're actually stimulating their central nervous system so it can help relieve colic, gas and improve sleeping patterns."
Louise, from Divine Massage Therapy in Mount Maunganui, teaches gentle massage techniques to parents of newborn to pre-crawling babies.
"The lifelong attachment between parent and child begins with a loving touch so what better way to strengthen that connection than through massage," says Louise. "Massage is a great tool for mums and dads to have in their parenting kit - and it's fun!"
Louise offers five-week courses for parents in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. The one-hour sessions are held in small groups or parents can book one-on-one classes.
"You'll learn how to give your baby a full body massage as well as gentle baby yoga movements," says Louise, a mum of two. "We show you how to do calm exercises with your baby that gently stretch their arms and legs, massage their stomach and pelvis, align the spine - all in a safe way your baby will love."
Parents learn ways to relieve challenges such as constipation, teething, gas and colic.
"Things can get pretty hectic with a newborn and it's easy to feel helpless, so giving your baby a gentle rub can help you feel more in control," she says. "It's also a great way for both parent and child to take time out."
Louise admits it's her favourite time of the week. "I love it, not only do I get all warm and fuzzy seeing parents bond with their babies, I get the best cuddles at the end of class!"
The next five-week baby massage course ($80 per family) starts on Monday, November 9.
Contact Louise: 0274 976 355 divinemassagetherapynz@gmail.com