BABY MASSAGE
"Infant massage is not a fad, it is an ancient art that connects you deeply with the person who is your baby, and helps you to understand your baby’s particular nonverbal language and respond with love and respectful listening. It empowers you as a parent, for it gives you the means by which you become an expert on your own child.”
~ IAIM Founder, Vimala McClure
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The IAIM focus on baby massage is connection, communication and closeness. Although there are many therapeutic benefits to baby massage, we do not consider ourselves to be a therapy. We meet parents and babies exactly where they are and share the gift of nurturing touch with them, so that they can experience the many benefits together.
The IAIM baby massage programme incorporates all of the main elements of bonding and stands on a wealth of credible evidence and research as to the many benefits for babies, parents and families and society as a whole.
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Baby massage is demonstrated to families with the instructor using a demonstration doll. As well as sharing the massage strokes, key theory is shared such as understanding babies' different states, verbal and non-verbal language and optimum massage conditions in order to make the massage successful.
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The IAIM mission statement is:
‘The purpose of the International Association of Infant Massage is to promote nurturing touch and communication through training, education and research; so parents, caregivers and children are loved, valued and respected throughout the world community.’
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This was collectively written by over 100 Certified Infant Massage Instructors during the first IAIM General Assembly, held in Orlando, Florida, in 1992.
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The IAIM (International Association of Infant Massage) was founded by Vimala McClure, a visionary who recognised the need for more nurturing touch, love and empathy in western society following her travels in India in the 1970's. Vimala. and the IAIM, honour our ancestors and the cultural heritage of baby massage whilst seeking to introduce it worldwide.
Benefits for Babies
Babies experience a wealth of benefits from being massaged by their parent, we break these down in to four main categories; Stimulation, Relief, Relaxation and Interaction.
Benefits for Families
Massage is a tool to help parents to have a better understanding of their babies by learning to read and respect their cues, as well as promoting bonding and secure attachment.
Benefits for Society
There can only be positives for an increase in positive touch, respect, love and empathy in our society. Studies show that sharing these skills early in life results in happier, healthier humans.