National Baby Massage Day!

Did you know that Baby Massage Day is celebrated every year on April 8th? This special day, which falls on a Monday this year, was founded in the early 2000s to promote awareness about the many benefits of baby massage. It’s a day dedicated to spreading the word about this ancient practice that has been around for centuries, with evidence showing that infant massage was conducted as far back as 3000 years ago!

Now, let’s dive into a brief history of baby massage!!!!!!

The tradition of baby massage has been deeply rooted in the cultures of countries like India, Africa, and Asia and it’s considered a standard part of childcare from the moment of birth until the baby is weaned and walking. The idea of baby massage only became popular to the West in the 1970s! This was notably influenced by French doctor Frederic Leboyer, who introduced Shantala Massage, a traditional Ayurvedic Baby Massage, from India to Europe. Shantala Massage involves gentle, rhythmic strokes using specific oils. The practice aims to strengthen the parent-baby bond and stimulate the baby’s bodily systems, including the circulatory, digestive, and nervous systems. Moreover, Shantala Massage is known to soothe babies, improve their sleep patterns, and foster overall growth and development.

Subsequently, a woman named Vimala McCLure also adapted several massage techniques from India, brought them to the USA and developed a standard methodology. McClure then founded the International Association of Infant Massage and authored a book titled “Infant Massage: A Handbook for Loving Parents” in 1978.

In 1992, the Touch Research Institute was established at the University of Miami School of Medicine. Under the direction of Tiffany Field, Ph.D., the institute initiated critical research into the therapeutic uses of touch for premature babies and newborns.

Driven by my deep passion for the power of baby massage and backed by increasing scientific evidence in the medical field, I founded Baby Wellness Massage in Coral Springs, FL in 2005 and created the Baby Zenergy program. The focus of Baby Zenergy is to strengthen the parent-baby connection through a bonding experience. By teaching massage the parent will be able to help their baby’s sleep (which can improve their own, everyone love their sleep!), help their bodies work better, and support their growth and development. By doing these practices, parents can better understand and cater to their baby’s needs, creating a deeper bond.

On Baby Massage Day, we want to give parents the tools to help their baby’s health and happiness. Imagine turning your home into a small spa for your baby. Light some candles, play calming music, and make the moment a special bonding experience!

How to Celebrate Baby Massage Day

1. Attend a baby massage class to learn proper techniques and specialized techniques depending on your baby’s needs.
2. Practice regularly at home to reinforce the techniques learned in class.
3. Join us on instagram @babywellnessmassage to learn about different event about Baby Massage Therapy.
4. Consider creating your own baby massage oil with fresh and safe ingredients.
5. Create a relaxing environment for baby massage, with soft lighting and calming music.
6. Give the gift of a baby massage to a new parent or a friend who could use some relaxation. www.BabyWellnessMassage.com