Baby Massage in Winter: As winter approaches, parents' responsibilities increase, especially when it comes to caring for newborns and young children. In this season, the cold weather can cause a child's skin to become drier, their body to feel stiff, and even a slight discomfort can affect their mood. In such cases, massage is very beneficial for the baby. It's not only good for their skin and muscles, but it also helps keep their body warm and improves blood circulation.
Baby massage is extremely beneficial in winter, but it's essential to know the right techniques. Mistakes like using cold oil, incorrect positioning, applying too much pressure, or massaging in a cold room can harm the baby. Massage should be done with gentle hands, paying attention to the correct temperature and timing.
1. Don't massage after bathing (massage first, then bathe is better): Massaging a baby after bathing is a common mistake in winter. This can cause the baby to catch a cold, and the cold can quickly spread throughout their body. Always remember to massage with lukewarm oil first and then bathe the baby after about 20-30 minutes. This provides warmth to the body, and the baby will feel more relaxed.
2. Avoid using cold oil: In winter, oil should not be applied directly from the bottle. Cold oil can make the baby uncomfortable as soon as it touches their skin, and they may start crying. Warm the oil slightly before massaging. Make sure the oil isn't too hot; it should only feel slightly warm when checked with your finger.
3. Don't massage with force; gentle hands are enough: Many people think that applying more pressure strengthens the bones, but this is just a myth. Massaging with too much force can cause marks on the skin, pain, and sometimes even internal injuries. Always massage with gentle hands, especially around the joints, using circular motions.
4. Do not hold the baby in incorrect positions: Techniques like holding the baby by the neck and suspending them in the air, forcefully pulling their arms and legs, or any kind of stretching techniques are completely wrong. This can hurt the baby's bones and muscles. Always place the baby on a flat, soft surface during the massage, such as a massage mat or a thick bedsheet.
5. Don't leave too much time between the massage and bath. The best time to bathe the baby is 20-30 minutes after the massage. This allows the oil to be properly absorbed into the skin and keeps the baby's body relaxed. Apply moisturizer within 2-3 minutes after the bath to lock in the skin's natural hydration.
6. Do not massage in a cold room. Always keep the room temperature warm. If the room is cold, the baby may shiver, and the massage may have the opposite effect. Turn on a blower or heater 15 minutes before the massage to bring the room to a comfortable temperature. Prevent drafts or cold air from entering the room during the massage.
7. Choosing the wrong oil can also be harmful. Not all oils are suitable for a baby's skin. Instead of using just anything based on people's advice, choose oils that are natural and baby-skin friendly. Mustard, coconut, and almond oils are generally considered good for babies in winter, but if your baby shows any reaction, stop immediately and consult a doctor.
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