Shishu Abhyanga: The Ancient Secret to Your Baby's Growth and Unbreakable Bond

Indian Baby massages are a highly prevalent traditional practice across India specifically in rural areas. In Ayurveda, it's called Shishu Abhyanga and this practice is a pleasurable yet beneficial way to protect and connect with your baby. It helps to ease a healthy restful sleep cycle, promotes lower levels of stress hormones, Relaxes the muscles, encourages flexibility, and helps in digestion and building immunity. Hence Practicing Shishu Abhyanga or Baby Massage is a must. In this blog, we have discussed some important aspects of Shishu Abhyanga or Baby Massage stay tuned to learn more.

What is Shishu Abhyanga (Baby Massage)?

Shishu Abhyanga is a Traditional Ayurvedic practice of massaging a baby’s body with essential oils. This practice has been prevalent across different cultures of India from north to south and east to west. In Shishu Abhyanga, lukewarm oil is gently applied to the baby’s entire body, from the scalp to the feet, using soft, circular strokes. The body is massaged thoroughly to promote relaxation, growth, and well-being. You can start Shishu Abhyanga, or Ayurvedic baby oil massage when your baby is a few weeks old and their umbilical cord stump has healed, which is usually around 10–14 days.

Oils that you can use for Shishu Abhyanga (Baby Massage)

Coconut Oil: Low birth weight is one of the major health problems in infants. According to a study done by Indian Pediatrics Coconut oil massage has beneficial effects on weight gain in preterm neonates. Coconut oil's natural emollient and anti-infective properties improve hydration and skin health in new-borns it protects infants' skin from infections. Gentle massage with coconut oil promotes better blood circulation and supports muscle development, contributing to overall growth.

Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil is another good option for Shishu Abhyanga as it improves breathing and oxygen transport in the body. A study published in the Journal of Caring Science has mentioned the benefits of Sunflower oil massage. Premature babies receiving massage with sunflower oil showed higher oxygen saturation, meaning their bodies had better oxygen levels. It also reduces stress and supports the baby's overall development. Different studies suggest that massage therapy with sunflower oil can be a safe, low-cost way to help premature infants, especially those receiving respiratory support.

Sesame Oil: In Ayurveda, Sesame oil massage was found to have a beneficial effect on infant growth and sleep. The antibacterial, antifungal, and nutritional effects of sesame oil are also proven by laboratory studies. According to research by the College of Medical Science sesame oil can significantly improve growth and blood flow as compared to mineral oils. Sesame oil contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants like vitamin E, which nourish the skin and improve its barrier function.

Ghee (Clarified Butter): Ghee is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins A, D, and E, which help keep the baby's skin soft, hydrated, and protected. According to a study published in Ancient Science of Life (2013), ghee acts as an excellent emollient and improves the skin barrier function, preventing dryness and irritation. Ghee possesses natural anti-inflammatory effects, which can soothe the skin and support recovery from minor rashes or dryness, as noted in a review published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine.

Important Tip: Before applying any oil, test it on a small area of the baby’s skin to check for allergies.

Benefits of Shishu Abhyanga ( Baby Massage)

1. Improves Weight Gain: Regular oil massage promotes better blood circulation and improves digestion, leading to healthy weight gain, especially in premature infants.

2. Strengthens Muscles and Bones: Gentle massage enhances muscle tone and promotes bone development by improving blood flow and stimulating growth hormones.

3. Promotes Better Sleep: Massaging helps babies relax by releasing serotonin and melatonin, which improves their sleep cycle.

4. Boosts Skin Health: Oils like coconut, Ghee, and sesame nourish the skin, keep it moisturized, and protect it from dryness and infections.

5. Enhances Immunity: Regular massage stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps boost the baby’s immune response against infections.

6. Improves Neurological Development: Touch and massage stimulate the nervous system, enhancing sensory awareness and cognitive development.

7. Relieves Colic and Gas: Massaging the abdomen in circular motions can help relieve colic, gas, and constipation by promoting digestion.

8. Strengthens Parent-Child Bond: Baby massage fosters emotional bonding and communication between the caregiver and the baby through skin-to-skin contact and eye contact.

Summary

Shishu Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic practice of massaging a baby's body with oils to promote health and development. This gentle technique is performed using warm, natural oils. The benefits of Shishu Abhyanga include improved weight gain, stronger muscles and bones, better sleep, enhanced skin health, and boosted immunity. It also aids in relieving colic, gas, and constipation, while promoting neurological development and emotional bonding between the baby and caregiver. The practice not only supports physical growth but also fosters a deeper connection and emotional well-being for both the baby and the parent.