This is an easy to follow routine that research shows will provide stimulation of the digestive system (through pressure and stroking) and relief of abdominal wind, gastrointestinal (digestive) cramping, and constipation and also helps to assist elimination.
This particular routine also releases built-up stress by calming and relaxing your baby and relaxing the stomach muscles. It is extremely important to always massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction to support the flow of the gastrointestinal system.
The pockets of air trapped in the gastrointestinal system cause excruciating pain for your baby. You can use the “bicycle technique” – putting your infant on her back and manually moving her legs up and down like pistons in a circular motion, as if she’s riding a bicycle.
It is recommend that once you have learnt the routine, to perform the routine 2 to 3 times a day, for five to ten minutes each for at least 2 weeks. Be consistent in following through with the routine on a daily basis is the key to ensuring relief for your baby as well as a useful preventative measure. If your baby is experiencing a great deal of wind and pain or colic, it is recommended you focus solely on the colic massage routine and / or performing the stomach massage strokes and leave massaging the rest of their body for when they are happy and content. It is important that you take some deep breaths to help you relax before you perform the colic massage routine on your baby otherwise your baby may pick up on your stress.
