Newbie parents are always confused about the right products and how to use the same on their infants. When you Google for the same, you get numerous articles adding to your confusion. It is always better to go for Ayurvedic methods for newborn care.
According to Ayurveda, the baby should be given Abhyanga (massage or smearing oil) and then followed by Snana (giving bath). This should be given on a daily basis for the child. Generally, lukewarm water is preferable for the baby bath. Traditionally the water is kept in sunlight, and that heated water is used for the baby to a bath. But this practice is not possible always and in every season. So hot water is used moderately for giving a bath to your baby.
Oil massage in babies (Abhyanga)
Abhyanga is regarded as a good way of developing a bond between mother & child. The touch or tactile sensation creates a sense of security and pleasure in both the mother and the child. This massaging also improves skin texture, increase strength, nourish the body, and accelerate the healthy growth and development of your baby. The massage should be carried at least for about 10-15 minutes. As per Ayurveda, oil massage is recommended for healthy children of all ages. For massage, it is better to use Shesha Ayurveda’s Lakshadi Thailam, which is very much beneficial for the babies. Before using, it should be tested in a small area. Shesha Ayurveda’s Extra virgin coconut oil has a cooling property and is used for head massage. Cradle cap in babies is much common, and you can use extra virgin coconut oil for the same. Eczema is another concern in babies, and Ayurveda has it covered too. A regular massage of the baby with Eladi thailam helps reduce inflammation and moisturizes the dry skin.
How To?
Apply oil in the palm and gently massage the baby. Avoid too much pressure. Prevent the oil from contact with the eyes as it irritates the baby. First apply on the head, ear, and toes and then to other parts of the body.
Benefits of oil massage
- Oil massage increases blood circulation and strengthens bones and muscles
- Relaxation of skeletal muscles and also improves the function of the nervous system of the baby
- Increases activeness in the baby and helps in the removal of the toxin from the body.
- It strengthens the immune system and also improves the pulmonary function
- It also helps the baby to get sound sleep which is very much required for the proper growth of the baby
Bathing
Usually, after massaging, the baby is washed either with lukewarm water, preferably natural heated by sunlight. The oil is washed using green gram powder or herbal soap. Bathing is given to the baby only after 30 minutes of oil massage. After bathing, the babies skin should be wiped with a wet cloth. After the whole process of bathing, the baby is fed and then made to sleep.
Note: Always use Extra virgin coconut oil for new born, ideally Shesha Ayurveda’s. After the baby is 10-12 weeks old, you can go for other thailam like Lakshadi thailam, Eladi thailam, etc. For baby girls above 3 months you can also use Nalpamaradi thailam.
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