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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/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 the
19th 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 am teaching a classes throughout Long Beach but work with
parents one-on-one in their homes.
Contact me by e-mail:
Chai.B.Benson@Babyawareness.com
or by phone:
562-612-4191
For an appointment and free consultation!