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 Baby
massage has a long tradition in India. Just after birth, a
cleansing massage is done with a soft wheat-dough ball, to
which a little almond oil and a dash of turmeric is added.
Just before rubbing the ball is dipped in a bit of almond
oil. This practice is continued for the first six days after
birth, before the bath. It enhances circulation, helps in
the expulsion of toxins and aids the digestive system of the
baby.
On the seventh day after birth, actual baby
massage with the dough ball starts and this goes on every
day for 3 weeks. The dough ball should be dipped in oil every
now and then, which helps to keep the 3 doshas in proper balance.
 Massage
with the hands begins when the infant is one month old, when
the baby's body has become strong enough. The baby massage
is continued every day for 3 months, during which the most
time is spend in massaging spine, back, neck, waist, hands
and feet, because these parts need to gain strength to support
the body.
Once the baby starts lifting its head on its
own and supporting its body weight on its arms, more general
daily body massage should continue for 18 months. The massage
of the spine nevertheless remains an important aspect of infant
massage.
After this time, it can be given on alternate days, though a daily
massage routine will aid in making the child strong and happy.
Lakshmi
giving Vishnu foot massage
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