How baby massage can support a better night’s sleep

There is nothing more appealing to a new parent (or to any parent for that matter) than the thought of an undisturbed night’s sleep. However, our bundles of joy often have other plans for our sleep routine…

Whilst you may have tried to adapt to an unconventional sleeping pattern, there could be a solution to helping your little one settle down to sleep more easily or perhaps even sleep a little longer – baby massage!

Baby massage is all about relaxing you and baby, which in turn can help to create a blissful night’s sleep all around.

Interested to find out more? Keep on reading…

Why do babies often wake during the night?

Let’s get one thing straight, if you’re waking up throughout the night to tend to your baby, you’re not alone. In fact, you are in the majority!

Our little ones are not born with fully developed circadian rhythms, which is why they often appear to be partying in the early hours.

Baby’s sleep routines are constantly changing – their sleep is not linear, meaning it may get better for a period time, and then regress. Over time baby’s sleeping pattern will gradually settle down, and they might develop a more regular routine as they move into the toddler years. In the meantime, your little one will regularly wake in the night for comfort or a feed and that is totally normal.

Having said that, there are things you can do to create a more relaxing pre-sleep experience for baby that may lead to a longer snooze. Say hello to baby massage…

What is baby massage?

Baby massage requires you to use soothing, rhythmic strokes on each area of baby’s body. Most little ones love their parent’s touch as it can help them feel calmer and more secure.

Once you begin to learn and practice a comprehensive baby massage routine (like ours), you will soon notice the amazing benefits for you and baby. So, with this in mind, let’s talk about the incredible impact that positive touch can have…

What are the benefits of baby massage and how does it allow for a good night’s sleep?

When you bring baby massage into your regular routine you will start to notice some of the benefits for baby straight away. A particular parent-favourite being that it can soothe and relax baby so they can enjoy a more settled night’s sleep. And of course, a good sleep for baby also means a better night’s sleep for you!

Some of the other fantastic benefits include:

• Preventing & alleviating colic
• Relieving wind & congestion
• Improving baby’s immune system
• Enhancing the bonding process

All of which help baby feel a lot more comfortable, and in turn can enable them to get the rest they require. Baby massage is a great opportunity for you to really get to know your little one and understand their needs.

When you understand your child’s cues and baby is content, the pair of you might even be able to enjoy some sacred restful daytime naps together.

A happy sleepy baby means a happy and peaceful mum and dad!

How can I incorporate baby massage into my routine?

Baby massage is all about creating a tranquil environment for you and your baby to enjoy. This means you can incorporate it into your routine whenever the two of you need to unwind.

Whether you need a little bit of calm together mid-morning, or you’re ready to settle down for the night – baby massage is versatile and is there for you both whenever you need it.

If you’re hoping for a good night’s sleep, we can recommend regularly practicing the moves learned in class with baby before bed. Massage can improve your little one’s ability to settle down to sleep more easily, while also helping them to sleep for longer periods, so it’s a great time to try it!

Where can I sign up?

If you’re ready to experience the magic of massage with your beautiful babe then discover more about our classes here.

We have a variety of classes both in-person and online. So, wherever you are based in the UK you can work towards that better night’s sleep once and for all.

About Basking Babies

Basking Babies is a national franchise business founded by Carla Davison 10 years ago after the birth of her first baby. The team of 16 passionate franchisees offer award-winning pregnancy relaxation, baby massage, baby reflexology and baby yoga classes, both in-person and live online to support parents from pregnancy to pre-school.