It is normal for infants to experience about seven to eight colds per year, which is a nightmare for anyone! Massage for your baby can bring relief and peace and make you feel as if you're taking action to reduce the symptoms.

What are the benefits of baby massage?

Massage can increase circulation in the area you're working, so we're bringing oxygen as well as nutritious blood to specific regions, such as the chest and face, in this case. We're helping stimulate the lymphatic system and bringing it into action to accelerate the process of removing waste and aid in healing.

There are specific methods to employ for areas that are affected. For chests, for instance, the technique we employ is known as tapping, which helps to break up mucus. In conjunction with a nursery tune like Incy Wincy Spider, while you tap all across the chest of the baby helps to stimulate the baby as well as make it more enjoyable. Other methods include waterfall, gently sliding fingers along the sides of the nose to help clear any congestion.

Massage stimulates the release of happy endorphins and hormones like oxytocin, which allows your baby to feel loved, calmed, and relaxed.

Before you start

• Be aware that babies may feel uncomfortable lying on their backs when they're very bloated. You might want to alter these movements to have them sit up alongside you or offer an inflatable pillow that lifts their head slightly away from the floor.
  
• Find a relaxing spot on the ground, switch off the television, turn off your mobile, and be free from all distractions.
  
• You can be sure that your child is well, content, and eager to play. Things to take into consideration: If they're sick, do they make eye contact, make happy (ish) sounds, coo, or seem to be having fun?

The strokes that can be practiced 

• Ensure that you feel relaxed and not overly overwhelmed! Relax for a few minutes before you start. You can shake your hands and arms. Ask your child to give them to be massaged to soothe them and ease them.
• Take your baby closer to you to let them be near you and feel secure.
• Make a song that you sing with lots of praise and encouragement.

Essential oil use

If you feel you'd prefer and are comfortable using essential oils, they can be extremely soothing for cold symptoms, and extremely helpful emotionally and physically. Essential oils should be utilized in moderation, using them sparingly and not consumed. Oils that are safe for infants include Lavender Lavandula angustifolia, Roman Chamomile Anthemis nobilis, and Mandarin Citrus reticulata.

Lavender in particular is fantastic for relieving sinus congestion as well as stimulating and encouraging sleep. Roman Chamomile for relieving pain and Mandarin for babies who are fractious. Oils should always be top-quality and organic when they are.

Steam diffusers that are electric are an excellent way to diffuse essential oils in a room without risk. If you'd like to get assistance with essential oils, make sure to consult with a certified aromatherapist.