“In most parts of the world, people massage babies,'' said Dr. Field. The Western countries are about the only place this is not routine. The primacy of touch in infancy, experts say, is tied to touch's being the most mature sensory system for the first several months of life.”
water movement + baby massage instruction (0 - 6 months)
A typical session includes: Instruction, baby weight, water movement (10-25mins), baby massage instruction.
Water Movement
Widely practiced throughout Europe, Asia, Canada & many other parts of the world - Our water movement experience is an interactive sensory and soothing time for your baby. With the support from our special float, babies can move freely and near weightlessly due to the buoyancy of the water. We recommend joining us as much as possible until 6 months for your baby to achieve the full benefits of our unique floating experience. This class is best suitable for babies 2 weeks through 6 months.
Water Movement may help to promote & encourage…..
Increased muscular, skeletal and cardiovascular strength through the water’s gentle resistance
Have a deep relaxation & calming effect on the nervous system aiding in longer sleep patterns
Stimulate hydrostatic pressure assisting in digestion & relief of gas and colic
Help explore motor skills in a near weightless environment due to the buoyancy of the water
Acclimate baby to the water over time acting as a precursor to swim class
Float time is usually 10 to 25 minutes depending on your baby’s age and activity level. Keep in mind most babies enjoy the full session the first visit, but if it is not “their day” the first time, it may take the second time to feel completely comfortable with the natural but new environment. Some babies prefer to splash around, while others are so relaxed they fall into a light sleep! It is very common for our parents to report their baby has long naps, big feedings and increased strength /movements post sessions ! You may notice benefits of sessions right away and throughout the rest of the day when attending class just one time. However as with all things, long term benefits come with regular attendance. We recommend coming once a week or as much as desired to see consistent and long term benefits. Our water movement session is best suitable for babies 0 to 6 months - please see our Q & A’s for specific questions related to our class age ranges!
Instructional Infant Massage
After the water movement portion of the session, we step into our cozy massage area. Our Certified Instructors will teach parents and caregivers an infant massage routine. We will provide you with the tools to perform the techniques at home and incorporate them in your daily routine with your baby. Through this practice, caregivers will set aside a special time each day to bond with their baby and develop a deeper understanding of baby’s verbal and non verbal cues.
Baby massage may promote & encourage….
Improvement in and longer baby sleep patterns
Reduces gas, colic, and constipation
Increases the process myelination - enabling messages to be be transmitted more effectively along nerve fibers
Decrease in stress (cortisol) hormone levels
Join mobility, flexibility & increases circulation to the bones, supporting growth
Increased weight gain in premature infants
Relieves muscular tension, growing pains, and teething discomfort
Encourages verbal and non verbal communication
Increase lymphatic flow helping the body expel toxins and waste products
Promotes bonding, secure attachment, nurturing touch
Benefits for Parents
Helps alleviate "baby blues" in mother by increasing the oxytocin levels in parent and decreasing cortisol levels
Recreates elements of bonding in delayed bonding situations (premature birth, medical complications, recovering from c-sec, adoption, etc)
Increased prolactin levels in breastfeeding mothers
Better understanding of your baby's cues and communication
Improved self esteem and confidence with your newborn
All sessions are by appointment only, please visit the booking tab to view our schedule!
Please keep in mind…..
~A typical session includes: One on one session with Nurse, water movement (10-25 mins), baby massage instruction. Most babies enjoy the full session the first visit, but if it is not “their day”, it may take the second session for acclimation to the new environment. You may notice benefits of sessions right away and throughout the rest of the day when attending class just one time. However, as with all things, long term benefits come with regular attendance. We recommend coming more than once/as much as desired to see consistent and long term benefits.