Research-backed
Image: Shutterstock
Grandmas, mothers, and mothers-in-law suddenly become full of wise secrets as soon as you have your baby! They never stop themselves from sharing tips and tricks they know of baby care with you and are always there to help you out through this amazing journey of your new-found motherhood.
While we’re sure you’ve become quite the expert yourself when it comes to baby care tips and tricks by now, there might be the chance of you ignoring a simple trick which you shouldn’t! In our opinion, this is one that every mother should know as it can make taking care of your baby so much simpler and enjoyable than it already is. Especially during this cold winter season!
We’re talking about baby massages. Oil massages are a great way for you to bond with your baby and ensure your toddler grows up stronger and healthier each day. They’ve been practiced by Indian mothers for a millennium and now even science backs up their benefits to a great extent. Let’s take a look at why you should oil massage your baby regularly.
Baby massages are important. Even in winters!
Image: Shutterstock
Baby oil massages are crucial for your child’s health. Based on the ancient principles of Ayurveda, such massages not only deepen the bond between mother and child but also help the baby to stop crying and sleep soundly instead (1). The simple act of the massage can reduce stress in babies to a great extent as it is very soothing and calming for the infant (2).
Studies also show that preemie (premature) babies who were massaged had actually performed better at developmental tests and had spent lesser time in the ICU (3). Besides all that, Ayurveda says that massaging your child on a regular basis can reduce discomfort caused by colic, soothe an upset tummy, improve blood circulation, and even reduce pain (4).
Despite its multiple benefits, most mothers shy away from massaging their babies in winter. The chilly atmosphere might make you uncomfortable with the idea of exposing your child’s skin to the elements of the season. But baby oil massages are important in winters as well.
Image: Shutterstock
You see, in the winter season, your baby’s skin becomes extremely dry and requires extra care. Too much dryness can lead to problems such as eczema, which can be a very uncomfortable experience for your baby to go through. Massaging, on the other hand, can prevent such skin problems and even reduce any muscle stiffness that may be caused by the cold.
Hence, baby oil massaging should not be skipped in winters. It should just be done sensibly. Which means adopting the right method and using the right oils.
This is the best way to massage a baby in winters
Before you massage your baby, make sure you have the right baby oil with you. The wrong oil can lead to skin issues for your baby. If you ask us, we’d suggest Himalaya’s Baby Massage Oil as it is loaded with ingredients that make it a must-have for winters! Its winter cherry and olive oil content ensure your baby’s skin is moisturized while keeping your baby warm. It’s also non-sticky and non-staining so that’s a win!
For the massaging process, first ensure that all the doors and windows of the room in which you’ll massage your baby are closed. Pick pre-bathtime as the time to massage your baby and heat up the oil a little before use. Warm your hands by rubbing them together before massaging your baby and then stroke your baby in gentle motions. Keep this on for a few minutes and give your baby a warm bath afterward.
Oil massaging your baby is one of those ancient health secrets that are truly beneficial. So, this winter, make sure you massage your baby!
