Massage and Rhythmic Movement

Rhythmic movements help infants to calm and regulate their bodies. It can help with soothing, digestion, hiccups, muscle tension, and range of motion. Basic rhythmic movements include:

• rocking or swaying

• bouncing on a yoga ball

• baby on your knees, swaying knees side to side (face up or face down)

This video is with an older baby, but some of the movements are applicable for younger babies too, just smaller/gentler ("sushi roll," ribcage rocking, side-lying rocking).

Infant massage can help to reduce muscle tension that may be interfering with comfort and effective latching.

It's also relaxing and simply a nice bonding activity for you and Baby!