JCM Review
This is an excellent book! A clear, concise guide with beautifully presented photographs, I would recommend it to all parents interested in deepening the bond with their children in both a loving and therapeutic way. With just a little time and application, it is possible to learn simple skills whereby your baby or child can be enabled to feel good in his or her body as well as benefiting from the alleviation of straightforward symptoms such as a cold or colic. For parents thic can be immensely rewarding and empowering, knowing that you are more equipped to respond to your child's needs, both emotional and physical.
Diane Jonec BAc.Acupuncturist, body worker and mother. Galit Hughes is an acupuncturist and massage therapist who has taught baby massage workshops to many parents. This lovely little book is composed largely of excellent photos with straightforward text that clearly illustrate a full range of techniques. Chapters cover general principles, varieties of massage oils, treatment of specific problems such as coughs, colds, colic pain, teething, sleep problems etc., basic massage strokes and techniques, how to massage the different regions of the body, and gymnastics for babies and toddlers.
Contents
Forward
Introduction
Why Massage Babies? Massage and Energy Circulation, When Should I Start? Fathers and Massage, When to Avoid Massage, Preparing for the Massage
Massage Oils
Preparation, Lavender Oil, Geranium Oil, Chamomile Oil, Recommended Blend for Massaging Babies
Treating Specific Conditions with Massage
Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis & Blocked Sinuses, Colic Pain, Wind & Constipation, Teething, Relaxation & Improving Sleep
The Massage Strokes
Stroking, Tapping
Beginning
From the Abdomen to the Hands, From the Abdomen to the Legs
The Chest
Opening the Chest, Tapping on the Chest
The Arms & Hands
Pressing & Stretching the Arms, Stroking the Arms, The Hands
The Abdomen
Hearts on the Abdomen, Clockwise Circles around the Navel, From the Abdomen to the Back, Down the front of the Body
The Legs & the Feet
Stretching the Legs, Massaging the Thighs, Stroking down the Legs, Stroking the Legs with Corkscrew Motion, Stroking the Backs of the Legs & Buttocks, The Feet
The Back
From the Lower Back to the Hands, From the Lower Back to the Legs, Around the Shoulder Blades, Sliding the fingers Down the Back, Palms Along the Back, Sliding the Hands across the Back, Massaging the Buttocks, Circular Back Massage, Massaging the Shoulders, Stroking across the Back, Tapping on the Back, Sliding the Hands down the Back
Massaging a baby who is Sitting or Learning to Sit
A Straight Movement down the Back, A Circular Movement along the Back, The Legs
The Face
The forehead. The Cheeks & the Chin, The Nose, The Ears
Gymnastics for Babies &Toddlers
Arms In & Out, Arms Up & Down, Arms Up & Down Alternately, Bending the Legs Alternately, Straightening the Legs, Folding Legs to the Abdomen, Feet together & to the Abdomen, Bringing the Big Toe to the Nose, Crossing the Legs, Stretching the Arms back
Massaging Older Children
Final Thoughts