The Benefits of Baby Massage & Baby Yoga

There are numerous benefits associated with both baby massage and yoga for both infant and caregiver and whilst it has been practiced for hundreds of years in many cultures around the world such as Africa, Asia and India it has only been given substantial recognition from paediatricians in more westernised, developed countries over the last few decades.

From detailed research they have found the following:

• attachment - it helps baby feel secure,  protected and loved and assists the parent in connecting with this new addition to the family
• happiness - the  massage strokes and yoga poses promote relaxation and  subsequently reduce stress whilst  increasing oxytocin levels  for both
• development - physically by stimulating muscles and joints, improving breathing & blood circulation, strengthening their bodies and helping with balance, co-ordination and motor skills and mentally as the brain is engaging in a new activity
• boosts communication - as a parent you will be able to read your baby's signals better therefore building your parental confidence thus  reiterating to baby that you care by satisfying their needs
• to soothe common baby aches and pains - massage techniques and  gentle yoga movements performed to baby's tummy can help their digestive system to relieve the effects of colic, wind and constipation, yoga practice can alleviate muscular tension and certain massage strokes to the cheeks and gums can help with teething discomfort
• sleep promotion - due to the relaxed state of mind and body that both  massage and yoga produces it could help restless babies create better  sleep patterns which in turn should give parents more potential rest

This list is by no means exhausted but highlights some of the main benefits.