Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Tropical Traditions -- Arnica Massage Oil Winner

Tina Allen, from Liddle Kidz, contacted me last week and offered to share some helpful infant massage techniques. She read what I had to say about my experience with infant massage and wanted to share further information . . . better information . . . . because what I am about to relay to you (before I announce the winner of the Tropical Traditions Arnica Massage Oil) are step by step instructions for a thorough baby massage. And the exciting thing for me is that this is how I learned!

Massage your Baby | Step by Step

Babies and children simply love to be touched. In fact, they thrive on it and it is a crucial part of their development.

Here are some easy steps so you can start using massage with your baby right now:

Getting Ready:

Before starting any massage:
  • Make sure the room is warm enough (especially if removing the baby’s clothing)
  • Relax yourself
  • Warm your hands by rubbing them together
  • Ask permission to start massage by making eye contact and verbally asking out loud “Is it okay if I give you a massage?”
Massage Time:

The Legs
If your little one is laying down facing you,
  • Start by placing your warmed hands around the top of baby’s leg at the hip
  • Cupping one leg, gently stroke downward towards the foot
  • Do not put any pressure on baby’s knee or ankle
  • Then stroke the bottom of the foot and gently hug each little toe
  • Next kiss the feet, babies love this!
  • Repeat on the opposite leg.
The Tummy
The tummy should not be massaged right after eating. If baby has not recently eaten (within 30 minutes), introduce your touch to the belly.

  • Place your hands at the belly button and move them in a clockwise motion
  • This movement can help ease the pains associated with gas, constipation and has been known to ease colic
  • The Arms
  • Repeat the same soothing strokes that we used on the legs
  • Continue massage only as long as you and baby are enjoying it. Babies are really good at letting us know when they’ve had enough.
The Back
  • Stroke the back, starting at the shoulders, over bum and down the legs, showing extra care not to put any pressure on her spine
  • Continue stroking the back a few times

End with a hug and kiss!

About Tina Allen, LMT, CPMMT, CPMT, CIMT
With over a decade of service to children and families, Tina Allen, founder of leading children’s health and nurturing touch organization Liddle Kidz™ Foundation, has become an internationally respected educator, author and expert in the field of infant and children’s massage therapy. She has appeared on TLC’s “Bringing Home Baby, NBC, PBS’ “ A Place of Our Own”, KCET and specialized training in providing massage therapy for children with special health care needs. Tina’s innovative approach to children’s health has allowed her the unique opportunity to educate families and professionals throughout the world in the many benefits of nurturing and compassionate touch.
Wasn't that great?!!

OK . . . and the winner of the Tropical Traditions Arnica Massage Oil is . . .


Dor who wrote: The essential oils used in the Arnica massage oil are the wintergreen, peppermint, clove, helichrysum, and spruce. Ummm...would be so nice on my now sore muscles.

I have emailed you! You have 48 hours to reply back to me! Congratulations!

1 comments:

Kari said...

I've massaged both my kids as infants. My 4 year old still likes me to massage her legs and feet - and sometimes back. She's a tad ticklish on her back, so.....