If you’ve visited a spa recently or do so often, you would know very well that the minute you enter it gives you a sense of calm. We all know there are spas all over that offer treatments for expectant and new mums, but spa treatment for babies is now becoming quite a hit too!
Imagine the air filled with the delicate scent of essential oils and soft, ambient music being played in the background as you undergo pampering treatments such as massages, facials, manicure, etc. It is, in short, a very relaxing experience. Baby spa treatments leave babies feeling the same way – relaxed and pampered.
Stimulating the sense of hearing
The power of sound cannot be denied when it comes to connecting with an individual. Music and rhythmic verbal sounds have a positive effect on the mind and body. Music creates a healthy and stimulating sound world that may help enhance a baby’s growth.
It would be great to play some music while gently massaging your baby. However, keep in mind that music played during a massage should be soft and calming, something that makes you feel relaxed would most likely make your baby feel relaxed as well.
Stimulating the sense of smell
The smell, more than any other sense, is intimately linked to the parts of the brain that process emotion and associative learning, and aromatherapy has a long tradition of using certain scents to calm or to stimulate the senses.
There are many baby massage oils to choose from and you can even make your own using gentle, organic carrier oils and a few drops of essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, sandalwood, etc. Consider the safety of these products for little ones who tend to place their hands in their mouths quite often. It is best to avoid mineral oils or oils that come with artificial fragrance. As far as baby massaging goes, invest in organic products for truly healthy results.
Stimulating the sense of touch
In the first eight weeks of a baby’s life, skin to skin contact is one of the most essential elements in ensuring your baby develops a healthy brain. As contact between mom and baby will stimulate your baby’s brain baby massages to go a long way!
Benefits of Spa for babies & children
Just like adults, most babies enjoy a good spa-like massage session, and these are some of the benefits:
- A profound way of creating a special bond with your baby
- Provides comfort and assurance to your baby, who can see you, hear your voice and sense your touch
- Baby massages also let dad play a part in the baby’s early life, makes him feel included
- May help to provide relief and also prevent infant colic
- Improves your baby’s blood circulation
- Each session releases endorphins – the body’s natural painkiller and a feel-good chemical
- Helps baby learn to breathe deeper – allowing a baby to sleep soundly
- Promotes sensory awareness as all senses are stimulated from a young age
- Improves baby’s nervous system, allowing good communication of the brain and the body
- Boosts parents’ confidence in handling their baby
- Helps premature babies and those with disabilities as it improves muscle tone and stimulates growth hormone
For new parents, this is the perfect way to reduce stress and bond with your baby. For experienced parents,– a spa session for your baby is perfect as it provides some time out with this new family member.
