During infancy, children are easily startled and cry due to certain external stimuli. To alleviate the baby's startle phenomenon, in addition to providing a safe and caring environment, parents can also try using massage techniques to soothe the baby. Below, we will teach you some techniques for infant startle massage.
Causes and manifestations of infant startle
1. Strong stimuli to the body and mind without preparation, such as falling from a high place (such as a bed or table) or sudden loud noises.
2. Poor sleep environment, such as sleeping in a moving vehicle or adults carrying and sleeping in a noisy public place.
3. Lack of certain nutrients (such as calcium) in the baby's body, which affects the development of the nervous system and can lead to excitement, crying, restlessness, and easy startle.
4. Some babies have weaker inherent tolerance, and a slightly louder noise can startle them.
Signs of baby startle include continuous crying, restless sleep, pale complexion, loss of appetite, and bluish lips.
Common acupoints for infant startle massage
Clear Heart Meridian
The Heart Meridian is located on the spiral surface of the distal phalanx of the middle finger. The massage technique involves using the thumb to push directly from the fingertip to the root of the finger.
Clear Liver Meridian
The Liver Meridian is located on the spiral surface of the distal phalanx of the index finger. The massage technique involves using the thumb to push directly from the fingertip to the root of the finger.
Separate and Push the Big Transverse Crease
The wrist creases are the big transverse creases. The massage technique involves using both thumbs to push apart from the center of the big transverse crease.
Rub Little Heaven's Heart
Little Heaven's Heart is located in the depression where the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb meets the index finger. The massage technique involves using the tip of the thumb to rub and press the acupoint.
Friction the Fontanelle
The fontanelle is located 2 inches directly above the anterior hairline and in front of the Baihui acupoint. The massage technique involves gently rubbing the fontanelle with the thumb.
Explanation of infant startle massage acupoints
The Heart Meridian nourishes the heart and calms the mind, clears heat and relieves restlessness; the Liver Meridian suppresses wind and calms startle, nourishes the heart and calms the mind; the Big Transverse Crease promotes digestion and relieves stagnation, nourishes the heart and calms the mind; Little Heaven's Heart calms startle and soothes the mind, reduces swelling and relieves pain; the Inner Bagua broadens the chest and benefits the diaphragm, lowers qi and relieves asthma; the Fontanelle dispels wind and settles startle, enhances intelligence and promotes brain health. The combination of these six acupoints, with long-term massage, can help alleviate infant startle.
Special foot massage technique for infant startle
1. Use the fingertip of the thumb to push and press each toe from the base towards the tip, then rub and knead the toe pads, and finally scrape the heel for 3-5 minutes each time.
2. Gently scrape and press the inside of the thumb for about 2 minutes.
Methods to reduce infant startle
1. Comfort the baby as much as possible during the day and hold them often. The warmer and more intimate the parents' embrace, the more stable the baby's emotions will be.
2. Provide a good sleeping environment for the baby. If the baby goes to bed early, try not to watch TV or speak loudly in the room.
3. Understand what the baby likes or dislikes clearly and avoid forcing the baby to accept things they dislike.
4. When taking the baby out, make sure the time is not too long and avoid crowded and noisy public places. If the baby shows signs of crying or sleepiness, it is best to go home immediately.
5. Provide the baby with a balanced diet. Good nutrition not only promotes a healthy body and reduces illness but also contributes to the baby's intellectual, social, and psychological development.
