Long before babies learn to speak, they start communicating with the world around them through touch. Hence, baby massage is a lovely way to soothe, calm and enjoy some bonding time for new mothers with the baby.

As early as six weeks, you can begin the massage process and the more natural the experience will be for your baby. Do make sure that all strokes should be done with a slow, lightly pressured touch. And choose a time when your baby is awake and alert, not too hungry or too full.

Here are some techniques which are good for all babies who aren’t yet crawling:

Tummy – Massaging the baby’s tummy helps with tummy troubles like colic and constipation. You can make gentle paddling strokes on the tummy, with one hand following the other in a clockwise direction. Doing the strokes clockwise is important, because it follows the direction of your baby’s intestines.

Chest – When your baby has cold, for relieving congestion problems, gentle massage of the chest can really help . As if you were flattening the pages of a book, place both your hands at the center of the chest and make strokes out to the sides. Maintain contact with your baby, slide your hands down, around and meeting in the center again.

Hands – This is a great way to help your baby strengthen  how to relax the hands. Using the pads of your thumbs gently open their hand, roll each tiny finger between your index finger and thumb and finally stroke the top of their hand from the wrist to the fingertips. Also use a very gently pulling motion on the arm to pull downward toward her hand, as though you were milking a cow. Repeat the motion several times.

Face – Massaging the face can help relax tension caused by sucking, crying and with the discomfort of teething. Babies mirror your movements and expressions. It is a lovely moment to make eye contact and have a happy time together. Make small circles along the jaw with your fingertips.

Back – Massage on the back can encourage strengthening of the neck, shoulders and arms as baby lifts their head; as well as having a calming and relaxing effect. There are many ways to position your baby, to encourage them to enjoy being on their fronts. You would learn these different positions on a baby massage class.

Legs – Your baby’s legs are less sensitive than other parts of the body. Using a little oil, wrap your hands around one of her thighs and pull down, one hand after the other, squeezing gently, as if you’re “milking” her leg. Switch legs and repeat.