Tummy Massage Techniques to Soothe Your Fussy Baby
There is nothing worse than seeing your newborn struggle with gas and colic and not being able to instantly take the discomfort away. Like many things with babies, it is something that we can help support but ultimately time helps as your child grows and their digestive system becomes stronger. It was watching my newborn struggle with gas that inspired me to create Grāmah Baby in the first place and ultimately it was a combination of tummy massage done with a concoction of Hing and oil that helped bring all of us some relief.
Tummy massage is quite simple to do and pretty effective at getting things going, and releasing any trapped air. Four specific movements can work wonders. All of the strokes will work towards moving the trapped air toward the bowels to be released.
The Technique
A few things to look for before you begin
Make sure your environment is calming, comforting, and warm so they don't feel cold during the massage. Grab your favorite oil or the Grāmah Baby Tummy Roll On and rub a few drops around their naval. When picking an oil, pick one that is suitable for babies and does not contain any harsh fragrances, synthetic ingredients, or
Clockwise stroke
We always want to move our hands in a clockwise motion as this is also the natural movement of our intestines. With gentle pressure move your hand clockwise around the naval a few times.
Paddle Stroke
With your hands, starting three fingers above the naval, using the pinky side of your hand, use long gentle stroke downwards with one hand, following with the next.
Moonwalking
Starting above the naval on the left side, gently walk and slide your pointer finger and middle fingers across the baby’s torso to the right side. Repeat again by starting from the left and moving to the right.
Bicycle Legs
Holding both legs, gently do a bicycle motion in the air. This movement combined with the massage encourages air to move through the system and at times this movement can out a little pressure on the abdomen, encouraging a bowel movement.
Repeat these movements as needed to help support your baby.
A few reminders...
- Before starting any kind of massage, make sure your baby is comfortable. If they show any signs of discomfort, like arching their back, pulling away, stiffening their body, stop the massage.
- Always wait at least a 30-45 minutes after a feed.
- If your baby is not feeling well or under the weather, skip the massage until they feel better
- As always, if your baby is super fussy from gas or colic, always consult your doctor to help support them further
For any parent out there that has had to deal with a gassy fussy baby, we see you! Good news is that it is not forever and there are measures you can take to help support them.
** This is not medical advice. Please always consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about massage.