Indian milking, pitstop, turn & caress massage

This routine of 3 baby massage strokes is designed to soothe and relax little arms and hands. It will make baby feel wonderful and offers a great way for baby to let go of any physical tension.

Even the most laid-back babies can get fretful when tired, hungry or in unfamiliar surroundings. Use this very helpful routine in your baby massage and baby yoga repertoire. 

Indian Milking, Pitstop, Turn & Caress massages:

Softly talk to your baby throughout this routine, explaining what you’re doing and encouraging them to release any tension in their upper body.

• For these exercises, sit loosely cross-legged on your yoga mat or rug, with your baby lying in front of you.
• Begin by asking baby’s permission to start. Then chant “Om” 3 times.
• Start on baby’s left side and then repeat all the strokes to baby’s right side.
• With hand and arm strokes it’s best to position your baby side-on so their left arm is nearest to you.

Pitstop:

• Drop a little oil into your palms and rub together.
• Hold baby’s hand in yours.
• Use your other hand to make scooping strokes from the waist to the armpit.
• Repeat several times.

Indian Milking:

• Make a ‘C’ shape of both hands by touching your index finger to your thumb.
• Stroke down baby’s left arm, starting from the shoulder down towards the wrist.

Turn & Caress:

• Put some extra oil on your palms.
• Place your hands together, the index finger of one hand touching the little finger of the other hand.
• Gently and firmly move forward and back from baby’s shoulder to wrist, making sure your elbows are moving away from and then towards your body.
• Remember to chat to your baby while you do this stroke. Check their body language for cues so you know they’re enjoying the massage.
• Turn baby around so the right arm is nearest to you.
• Repeat these massages strokes to baby’s right side, beginning with Pitstop, then Indian Milking, and lastly Turn & Caress.
• Finish by taking your baby’s arm and whispering soothing words to help him or her release any tension.