Massage, or the laying on of hands, is an ancient tradition that can be dated as early as 1000 BC in China. We know that touch from a loved one has a positive effect, simply holding someone's hand can be beneficial to both giver and receiver. Loving touch or massage stimulates the calming hormone oxytocin, which when released reduces stress and slows us down. Long, slow breathing helps the elimination of toxins and blood is nourished, which in turn is beneficial for a baby's growth. Massage is deeply nourishing and relaxing, a woman can feel more at home in her changing body, and this relaxation also has a positive effect on how she feels about her birthing process. Massage during pregnancy can help alleviate backache, heartburn, and can release some water retention. A woman's skin can become sensitive while it stretches and tightens, so massage can nourish the skin giving it some elasticity. Massage is also so much more than that; many women tell me that what they love most is the sense of finding themselves in their body again, of regaining a sense of confidence in their own skin and this confidence can support a woman to make clearer choices as a mother, Massage simply gives you a space to relax into you.
While a baby is in the safe space of the womb, their skin is in constant contact with the amniotic fluid, warm and comforting as it flows around them; as a baby grows, more of their skin is in contact with the inner wall of the uterus and the sensations become closer, they are held as they gently sway within. Massage offers a woman the chance to immerse herself in the feelings of security and reassurance, this in turn allows her the time to really improve the bond with her baby before it's born.
Continuing that bond is vital for a baby's continued sense of well being. There are many ways to conserve this bond; breastfeeding, skin to skin time, baby wearing, and massage. The baby massage that I teach focuses on strengthening the bond between parent and baby and offers simple touch techniques to help alleviate symptoms such as colic, sleeplessness and teething discomfort. Massage also provides for a baby a sense of themselves within the space, massaged babies grow with a confidence in their surroundings and can be more emphatic to others. Touch is reassuring - just simple relaxed touch, massage and holding a baby can boost their immune system by reducing stress and preventing many ailments.
Massage is something we all have at our fingertips, a simple yet profound treatment available to everyone. Pregnancy, birth and motherhood are special and transformational times, and massage can transform your experience allowing it to become more relaxed, enjoyable and deeply personal.
If you are interested in attending a baby massage class or booking a massage treatment for yourself then I have listed contact details, please see below.
~ Becky Stanley
FB - Mother and baby massage
0117 9245654
40 Fernbank rd
Redland
Bristol
BS6 6PU
No comments:
Post a Comment