Infant massage is a series of massage techniques especially geared towards infants.  The goal of a CIMT (Certified Infant Massage Teacher) is to facilitate these techniques and teach the parent, family member, or caregiver to massage their infant.  There are multiple benefits to these techniques, but the main benefit I find so powerful is the strengthened attachment between child and adult. Eye contact, talking and communicating, and a gentle touch is so necessary in building and maintaining relationships for later adult life.  For babies to develop this type of trusting and calming relationship early on can be so healing, empowering and strengthening. 

Mothers have been massaging their infants for centuries and utilizing it as part of their daily childcare activities. In parts of India and Africa these techniques have been handed down from generation to generation. It wasn't considered by the "Western world" until the19th century when babies were dying of Marasmus (lack of tactile stimulation and interaction). Now, parents are being taught around the US, Canada and parts of Europe by certified, trained and practiced individuals. Infant massages classes are taught in groups and one-on-one and the benefits include strengthening in: bonding, relaxation, communication, development (social-emotional, neurological, physical), stimulation, confidence (for adult) and fun (both child and adult).

As human beings, we are social and tactile creatures and our very survival requires the experience of touch.  There is a huge myth that mothers who respond to their babies cry for touch will spoil them. The thought in my family was that if a baby was allowed to cry for awhile, she/he would become stronger and more independent. THIS IS NOT TRUE! In fact, research has shown that mothers who respond to their baby's cue of crying will have less fussy babies, babies who have a greater sense of trust and will feel more secure in their world. For more research-based information on touch, visit the Touch Research Institute (TRI).

I have just completed the requirements for my Infant Massage Teacher Certification by Liddle Kidz Foundation. They have a wealth of information on Infant Massage and how to be a certified teacher.

I teach classes throughout Long Beach and also work with parents one-on-one in their homes.

Contact Me for an appointment and free consultation!

Email: Chai.B.Benson@Babyawareness.com
Phone: 562-612-419