Infant massage is an excellent way to build a bond with baby. Touch will stimulate her immune system and release endorphins letting her know the world is a lovely caring place. Touch also helps her figure out where ‘she’ is, increases weight gain and gives her a sense of belonging.
Regular massage time can become the time when we give baby choice about what happens to him, honoring his boundaries. In this picture the baby has its face and eyes turned away. As well its got its hands wrapped around the finger of the person and is trying to push the hand away. Mouth closed, body limp..truly not interested and not very happy.
Give a massage when baby wants it and when you are also relaxed, if massage time becomes another ‘thing’ on the TO DO list neither of you will enjoy the moment.