For many of us, massage is a simple way to relax, release tension and feel more at ease. The gentle rhythm of touch can help us slow down and reconnect with our bodies — and babies can benefit from that same sense of calm and connection.
Baby massage is about so much more than massaging tiny arms and legs. It is a beautiful opportunity to pause, be present and connect with your baby through loving touch.
Our natural affinity with touch begins long before birth. During pregnancy, many mums instinctively stroke their growing bellies — sometimes to connect with their baby, sometimes simply because it feels comforting. That instinctive connection continues after birth, when touch becomes one of the ways we communicate love, comfort and reassurance.
Baby massage can be a wonderful way for mums, dads, partners and caregivers to spend uninterrupted time with their baby. The gentle touch and one-on-one connection can help both you and your baby feel calm and relaxed, while becoming a lovely part of your daily routine.
Our Baby Massage Oil has been carefully formulated with gentle, nourishing ingredients to make massage a soothing and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.
Here are a few helpful answers to some of the questions you may have about getting started.
When can I start massaging my baby?
In some cultures, baby massage traditionally begins within the first few days after birth. However, your baby's skin is very different from adult skin. It is thinner and more delicate, and needs time to adapt to life outside the womb.
Some experts recommend waiting until around 10–14 days after birth before beginning regular massage. If your baby was premature, unwell or has particularly sensitive skin, it's always a good idea to check with your midwife, Plunket nurse or other healthcare professional before getting started.
When you do begin, remember that massage doesn't need to be long. A few gentle strokes or a little foot massage can be enough.
When is the best time to massage my baby?
There are no set rules — you know your baby better than anyone, so choose a time that feels right for you both.
A time between feeds, when your baby is awake, settled and content, can work well. You don't want that feed making a surprise return!
Many parents enjoy incorporating massage into their evening routine, perhaps after a bath and before the next feed. Others find that a morning massage works better for their baby.
The most important thing is finding a time when neither of you feels rushed.
Before you begin
Baby massage should be a calm and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. A few simple things can help make sure you're both comfortable and ready.
Choose a warm, comfortable room. Babies can lose heat quickly, especially when undressed, so make sure the room is warm and free from drafts.
Make sure your baby is settled and alert. Massage is best when your baby is awake and content. If they are hungry, very tired or unsettled, it may be better to wait.
Give yourself plenty of time. There is no need to rush. Turn off distractions, put your phone aside and enjoy having this quiet time together.
Check your baby's skin. Avoid massaging over broken, irritated or inflamed skin. If your baby has a skin condition or you're unsure whether massage is suitable, check with your midwife, Plunket nurse or healthcare professional.
Check the oil first. Before using a new product, apply a small amount to a small area of your baby's skin and wait to make sure there is no reaction. If you notice redness, irritation or discomfort, discontinue use.
Keep your touch gentle. Your baby's skin is delicate, so light, slow strokes are all that's needed. Massage should never be painful or uncomfortable.
Follow your baby's cues. Your baby will let you know if they've had enough. Turning their head away, becoming unsettled, crying or changing their body movements can all be signs that they need a break. Simply stop and try again another time.
And remember, you don't have to get it perfect. Baby massage is less about following a particular routine and more about enjoying the connection between you and your baby.
How do I massage my baby?
There are many different ways to massage your baby, and you don't need to massage their whole body every time. You might simply spend a few minutes gently massaging their feet, legs or tummy.
Start by making sure the room is warm and your baby is comfortable. Place a small amount of massage oil into your hands and rub them together to warm the oil before touching your baby.
Using your fingertips and gentle stroking movements, you can begin at the crown of your baby's head and move gently down the sides of their face, avoiding the eyes.
Move on to their body using slow, gentle strokes along their back, arms and legs. There is no need to apply pressure — your baby's skin is delicate, so light, reassuring touch is all that is needed.
For their tummy, you can use gentle clockwise, circular movements. Many babies enjoy the feeling of warm hands on their tummy, particularly when they are feeling unsettled.
You can also gently massage the soles of their feet using the pads of your thumbs, or spend a little extra time holding and stroking their hands and feet.
Most importantly, follow your baby's cues. If they turn away, become unsettled, cry or seem uncomfortable, simply stop and try again another time. Baby massage should always be a calm and enjoyable experience, never something your baby needs to endure.
When you have finished, wrap your baby in a warm, soft blanket or towel and give them some quiet time to relax.
How do I choose the right oil for my baby?
Your baby's skin is delicate, so choosing a massage oil specifically formulated for babies is important.
Look for simple, gentle ingredients and avoid products containing harsh ingredients or strong artificial fragrances. If choosing a product containing essential oils, check that it has been specifically formulated and is appropriate for your baby's age.
A good baby massage oil should also leave your baby's skin feeling soft and nourished without being overly heavy or greasy.
Natures Touch Baby Massage Oil has been created with your baby's delicate skin in mind. It is made with nourishing natural oils and botanicals selected for their gentle, skin-loving qualities.
It is vegan friendly, nut oil free and contains no essential oils, making it suitable for use on baby's skin from birth.
Most importantly, enjoy the moment
Baby massage isn't about getting every movement exactly right. There is no perfect routine and no need to rush.
It is simply about taking a few quiet moments to slow down, look into your baby's eyes, feel their little hands and feet beneath yours, and enjoy being together.
As a new parent, there can be so much information and advice coming your way that even the simplest things can sometimes feel like another task to get right. They don't have to be.
Trust yourself. Follow your baby's cues. Take your time.
A little thank you from us
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide. We hope it has given you some helpful ideas and, perhaps, encouraged you to slow down and enjoy a little more time connecting with your baby.
As a small thank you for reading, enjoy 15% off our Baby Massage Oil by adding code BABYMASSAGE15 at checkout. Discover natures Touch Baby Massage Oil → Here
Because sometimes it's the simplest moments that become the ones we remember most.