massaggio neonatale

Baby Massage: An Act of Love and Well-being for Your Baby

Neonatal massage is much more than a simple act of tenderness between parent and newborn: it is a practice with ancient origins that has demonstrated a wide range of benefits for the physical and emotional development of the little one. But what are the different types of neonatal massage and what are the tips for performing it safely and effectively? Find out by continuing to read the article.

Neonatal Massage: The History

Infant massage is an art that involves affectionate contact between a parent or caregiver and a newborn, using gentle and relaxing movements. This ancient ritual is practiced in many cultures around the world, and its origins are rooted in the traditions of many ancient civilizations. Infant massage is not just a simple gesture, but a form of non-verbal communication between parents and baby that transmits love, closeness and security to your little one.


Newborn massage is a tradition widely used in the East and has only recently been rediscovered in the West.


Skin-to-skin contact is promoted from birth because it strengthens the bond between parents and the baby and promotes its development. Infant massage fits right into this need of the baby for closeness and love, transforming this act into a gesture of love and well-being for both parties involved.

Types of Baby Massage

Touch is the first sense that develops and one of the most developed senses of the newborn because already during his intrauterine life he is massaged by the uterine walls. Rediscovering the sensation of touch with neonatal massage by mom and dad is a source of love, closeness and security for him. There are different types of massages that can be practiced, let's see the main ones in detail.
newborn back massage

Shantala Massage

This type of infant massage is named after Shantala, an Indian woman who made it famous. Characterized by gentle circular movements, the Shantala massage is known for its ability to calm the newborn and improve the quality of sleep .

Swedish Massage

This type of massage involves long, flowing strokes, often using natural oils. It is especially helpful for relieving muscle tension and constipation problems in infants.

Iyengar Infant Massage

Based on the practice of yoga, this massage incorporates movements and stretching that promote the flexibility of the newborn . It is particularly suitable for newborns who have suffered a difficult birth.

Hawaiian Massage

This traditional Hawaiian practice is known to promote relaxation and connection between parent and baby . It involves slow, soothing movements using the hands and thumbs.
infant foot massage

Benefits of Baby Massage

Here are some of the most significant benefits of newborn massage

  • Sleep Promotion : Infant massage can help improve the quality of your baby’s sleep . A study published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing (JOGNN) found that regular massage can increase the amount of time newborns spend in deep sleep.
  • Relief of Pain and Discomfort : Numerous sources, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), indicate that infant massage can be an effective remedy for relieving the discomfort caused by colic, gas and constipation. The gentle touch stimulates the digestive system of the newborn, helping to reduce gastrointestinal disorders. In the Osteomassage video course you can learn a sequence of useful messages to promote intestinal transit and improve colic
  • Sensory Stimulation : The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) emphasizes that infant massage is an effective way to stimulate the baby's senses, contributing to the development of the central nervous system. In fact, skin-to-skin contact can best promote their physical and emotional development .
  • Increased Parent-Baby Bonding : Infant massage promotes a deep connection between parents and babies. Physical contact and loving attention strengthen the emotional bond, providing the baby with a sense of security and affection.
  • Immune System Improvement : Regular practice of infant massage stimulates the baby's lymphatic system, helping to strengthen his immune system. The study published in the journal Pediatric Research suggests that massage can positively influence the immune response of the newborn.
  • Stress Reduction : Stress reduction is a crucial aspect of a newborn's well-being. Infant massage reduces the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the baby's body, contributing to a calmer and more relaxed environment.
  • Promoting breastfeeding : Closeness and contact increase the mother's production of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes breastfeeding .

How to Perform a Safe Baby Massage

Infant massage should be practiced on the newborn only after taking a course and should be offered when both you and your baby are relaxed and calm, such as after bathing or before bed. The baby must not be tired or hungry because he will refuse the massage.


Before you begin, make sure the room is warm and free from drafts and use a neutral oil suitable for the baby's sensitive skin to facilitate the movements of your hands.

Massage is not just about movements, but also about communication; so, talk softly to your baby while looking at him.

When to start newborn massage?

All types of infant massage can be practiced from the first days of the baby's life, but to be on the safe side it would be better to wait for the umbilical cord to heal. Therefore, massage can be practiced from the first month of life until the baby is about 12 months old or until the baby and the mother want it.

Newborn massage is a precious experience that brings numerous benefits to your baby, improving his physical and emotional well-being. Inside the course library you can find

  • “Osteo-massage” by me, pediatric osteopath Matteo Silva, for simple and effective osteopathic massages for your baby, right from the first weeks of life;
  • “Infant Massage” by Midwife Maria Chiara Alvisi, for relaxing and beneficial massages throughout the baby's body.
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