Three Essential Acupoints for Baby Massage
According to the saying, "medicine is three parts poison," mothers may consider using massage to enhance their baby's immune system. Baby massage is simple, and here are three methods that I would like to introduce to help mothers.
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I. Spinal Massage
The "spine" refers to the spinal column on the back.
Starting from the end of the tailbone to the point between the neck and chest (the highest vertebrae where the neck and chest meet) forms a straight line. The baby lies face down on the bed, and the parent gently strokes the entire back to relax the muscles, then performs spinal massage.
Specific technique:
Use the thumb and index finger of both hands to pinch, with the index and middle fingers in front and the thumb behind, pinching the superficial skin of the spine. Twist the index and middle fingers backward and the thumb forward while pushing the thumb forward. Gradually move upward from the tailbone to the highest vertebrae, repeating the massage 3-5 times.
After the massage, the skin in the area may appear slightly red. At this time, gently massage the baby's back up and down 2-3 times to help relax the back. It is recommended to perform spinal massage once every three days.
When massaging the baby's spine, the movements should be gentle. When pinching the muscles upward, do not apply too much pressure to avoid making the baby afraid and uncooperative.
II. Lightly Tap on the Back Shu Points
Tapping on the back shu points can regulate the internal organs and reduce the occurrence of diseases. The back shu points are located on both sides of the spine, 1.5 cun away from the spine (3 cun from the inner edge of the scapula to the middle of the spine).
Specific technique: Gently tap on the back shu points with the fingertips of the index, middle, and ring fingers, from top to bottom, repeating 3-5 times on both sides. After the tapping, the skin on both sides of the spine may appear slightly red. Then, gently massage the areas that were tapped 2-3 times with the palm to relax the skin.
III. Rub and Press Zu San Li
Zu San Li is located 3 cun below the outer knee, 1 finger width (the thickness of the baby's middle finger) beside the anterior tibial crest (the highest part of the front of the lower leg that can be felt).
Specific technique: Use the thumb to rub and press Zu San Li in a clockwise direction for 3 minutes each time. This can benefit the spleen and stomach, nourish Qi and blood, and regulate digestion.
Sometimes, the baby's illness is caused by external factors, but sometimes it is due to low immunity. Massage is a simple and side effect-free method. By learning these techniques, mothers can help improve their baby's immune system without relying on medication.
What to Pay Attention to When Massaging Infants
I. Timing
Babies aged 0 to 3 years need the most touch, so it is best to start massaging them as early as possible. Babies need regular and long-term touch, ideally once or twice a day for 15 minutes each time. The timing does not have to be fixed and can be flexibly adjusted by parents. Touching the baby does not have to be a formal ritual; it can be done while breastfeeding by gently touching their hands and feet, or while they are sleeping by stroking their back.
II. Preparation
Before massaging the baby, create a good environment for them. The room temperature should not be lower than 22 degrees Celsius, and it is better to have sunlight. Keep the room clean and peaceful, and you can play some gentle and relaxing music. Parents should wash their hands before massaging the baby, trim their nails, and warm their hands before starting. Prepare massage oil or moisturizer.
III. Techniques
There is a technique to the pressure applied during touch. The movements should be gentle and smooth, ideally making the baby feel neither pain nor itchiness. If the baby's skin appears slightly red after the massage, it means the pressure was just right. The massage should not be limited to one or a few areas; the larger the area, the more beneficial it is for the baby. The accuracy of the massage is not crucial because this is not a formal massage. The sequence of the touch should start from the forehead, then the chin, head, chest, abdomen, hands, feet, back, and buttocks.
IV. Techniques
First, let the baby lie on their back for touch, then let them lie face down for back and buttock massages. The technique of touch can include finger pressure, and sometimes using the whole palm to knead and push. For the baby's limbs, gentle kneading can be applied, and there are many techniques available. However, it is not necessary to perform all of them; they can be flexibly applied. Additionally, the sliding of the hands on the skin should be smooth and gentle.
V. Emotional Connection
The difference between touch and massage is that touch emphasizes emotional communication. The entire process should not be mechanical but a pleasant experience. Love and care are the essence of touch. Therefore, parents should maintain a happy mood, take some time to relax themselves and clear their minds. Maintain a smile and make eye contact with the baby during touch, and engage in conversation. Use a positive mindset to influence the baby.
