Creating calm, connection and confidence with your little one.
There is something incredibly special about slowing down and giving your baby your full attention. Baby massage isn’t just about soothing tiny muscles; it’s about connection, communication, and learning to read your baby’s cues in a whole new way.
The good news? You don’t need special equipment or lots of time. With a few simple steps, you can create a calm, safe, and nurturing experience right at home.
🕯️ Step 1: Create a Calm, Comfortable Space
Babies are very sensitive to their surroundings, so setting the scene can make a big difference.
✨ Choose a warm room as babies can get chilly without clothes on
✨ Dim the lights or use soft natural light
✨ Turn off loud TVs or distractions
✨ Put your phone on silent so you can be fully present
Lay your baby on a soft towel or blanket on the floor. Being on the floor is safest in case your baby wriggles or rolls.
You might like to play soft music, but your voice is the most comforting sound of all.
🌼 Step 2: Choose a Baby-Safe Oil
A small amount of oil helps your hands glide gently over your baby’s skin.
✔️ Use an edible, cold-pressed oil such as coconut, sunflower, or grapeseed
✔️ Avoid nut oils unless you are sure your baby has no allergies
✔️ Always do a small patch test on your baby’s skin first
Warm a little oil between your hands before touching your baby so it doesn’t feel cold.
And remember an Over-The-Clothes Massage works just as well.
👀 Step 3: Make Sure Your Baby Is Happy and Ready
Baby massage should always be something your baby enjoys, never something they have to tolerate.
Look for signs your baby is ready:
💛 Calm and alert
💛 Making eye contact
💛 Relaxed body and gentle movements
It’s best to avoid massage when your baby is:
❌ Very hungry or just fed
❌ Overtired
❌ Unwell or has a temperature
If your baby turns their head away, stiffens, cries, or seems unsettled, pause. You can always try again later. Following your baby’s cues builds trust and helps them feel safe.
Always also ensure that your baby is awake and if they do fall asleep, stop the massage.
🤲 Step 4: Start with Gentle, Simple Strokes
You don’t need to remember complicated routines. Slow, gentle strokes are perfect.
👣 Legs and feet are a lovely place to start, as many babies are more comfortable being touched here first
👐 Use long, gentle strokes from thigh to ankle
🦶 Gently circle the soles of the feet with your thumbs
Keep your hands relaxed and your touch soft but confident. Talk or sing as you go, as your baby loves the sound of your voice.
As you both grow in confidence, you can move on to tummy, chest, arms and back, always watching how your baby responds.
⏳ Step 5: Keep It Short and Sweet
A full massage can last 10–20 minutes, but even 5 minutes of loving touch is beneficial.
It’s absolutely fine to just massage legs one day and arms the next. Baby massage is about connection, not perfection.
❤️ Why Baby Massage Is So Special
Regular massage can help to:
✨ Support bonding and attachment
✨ Encourage better sleep
✨ Ease wind and tummy discomfort
✨ Support body awareness as your baby grows
✨ Boost your confidence in handling and understanding your baby
Most importantly, it gives you uninterrupted time together with no chores, no screens, just you and your baby learning about each other.
🌸 A Final Gentle Reminder
There is no “right” way, only your way with your baby. Trust your instincts, follow your baby’s cues, and let it be a calm, loving experience for you both.
And if it doesn’t go to plan today? That’s okay too. Tomorrow is another opportunity for cuddles and connection 💛
Mummy & Baby Buddies 