Transcript: Baby Won’t Stop Crying? 4 Must-Try Baby Massage Techniques for Colic Relief!

This is a text transcript from The First Time Mum’s Chat podcast. The episode is called Baby Won’t Stop Crying? 4 Must-Try Baby Massage Techniques for Colic Relief! and you can click on the link to view the full episode page, listen to the episode and view the show notes.

Hello, and welcome to another episode of First Time Mum’s Chat. I’m Helen Thompson, your host, and I’m thrilled to have you here, whether you’re a new listener or a regular, tuning in for another episode. As a qualified child care educator and baby massage instructor, I’m here to support you through the highs and lows of early motherhood.

First Time Mum’s Chat is all about helping you navigate those early parenting days with practical tips, expert insights and tools to make this journey smoother and more enjoyable for you and your baby.

Today, we’re diving into something I know so many mums struggle with, colic. Has your baby been crying for what feels like hours and you’re not sure how to help? Do you wonder if there’s something simple you can do to bring them and yourself some relief? In this episode, I’m sharing some powerful baby massage techniques that can ease your little one’s discomfort, soothe their colic, and make life a little easier for both of you. You’ll learn step by step how gentle massage can help calm a colicky baby, release trapped gas, and even help you bond more deeply with your little one.

So if you’re looking for a natural, hands on way to soothe your baby’s crying, then this is definitely an episode you won’t want to miss. So let’s get started and bring a little peace and calm back into your world.

To start, let’s break down what colic is and why it can be such a mystery. Colic is categorised by intense, often high pitched crying that typically happens in the late afternoon or evening. These crying episodes can last for several hours and are usually tough for parents to manage. While doctors don’t fully understand the exact causes, colic may be linked to digestive issues, sensitivity to stimulation, or even an immature nervous system. Many parents tell me they feel helpless when their tiny baby has colic, and that’s completely natural. Colic is challenging, but you can manage it with the right tools.

Now, this is where baby massage comes into the picture. By using gentle and loving touch, you can help to stimulate your baby’s digestive system, reduce gas, and promote relaxation. Massage is a simple and effective way to ease some of the symptoms of colic and what’s more, It’s something you can do from the comfort of your home at any time your baby needs it.

You might be wondering how baby massage works for colic relief. So first let’s think about your baby’s tiny digestive system. At this young age, a baby’s digestion is still developing, which can lead to trapped gas and discomfort. Massage ,helps by gently stimulating their system, encouraging the release of any gas or tension, plus, baby massage releases endorphins. These are natural, feel good chemicals that can soothe your baby, helping them to feel relaxed and comforted. You’re also releasing oxytocin, which is the love hormone. I like to call it the cuddle hormone.

Massage also works by calming the nervous system. Imagine feeling relaxed and secure, that’s what we’re trying to give your baby and this benefit goes beyond just colic relief. It helps your baby feel calm and secure, which is crucial for their overall development.

So let’s dive into a few specific massage techniques that can help. I like to start with the tummy area. Using your fingers, you can do a gentle circular motion in a clockwise direction around the navel. The reason we do it in a clockwise direction is because that is the way the digestive system works. This is known as the ‘I love you’ stroke and it’s fantastic for helping to relieve trapped gas and it can also help with colic.

Another technique is the ‘ bicycle legs move’. By gently moving your baby’s legs in a cycling motion, you can help to relieve any gas that might be causing discomfort. It’s gentle but effective and can work wonders when done regularly. Please always remember that baby massage is baby led. So go with what your baby needs or is doing.

I’ve created a free guide with photos and an in depth explanation of each of these techniques to support you. You can get this free guide by going to MyBabyMassage.net/colic, that’s MyBabyMassage.net/colic.

When giving your baby a massage, it’s important to create a soothing environment. Try to find a quiet, warm place, free of distractions and yes, turn off those mobile phones because remember, it’s your time with your baby.

Dim those lights, play some soft music and keep the room cosy and warm. A calm setting will help both you and your baby enjoy the experience. You might even use a small amount of natural, unscented oil on your hands to help your movements feel smoother and gentler against your baby’s skin.

One of the most beautiful things about baby massage is that it’s not just about helping with colic. It’s a bonding experience that strengthens your relationship with your baby. Studies show that touch is a crucial way babies connect with the world. Every time you massage your baby, you’re not only easing their discomfort, but also building trust and helping them feel safe and loved. For you, baby massage can be a quiet, reflective time when you feel close to your little one, calming your own mind and heart.

If you’d like a bit more guidance, I’ve created a free resource called ‘ Four Simple Ways to Soothe Your Colicky Baby’. This guide includes practical tips you can try right away. From simple techniques to other calming strategies. Just head to MyBabyMassage.net/colic to download it. It’s easy to follow and I hope it brings both you and your baby some relief.

Thank you so, so much for joining me today on First Time Mum’s Chat. Remember, if you’re facing colic, you’re not alone and it’s okay to reach out for help. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each of you for joining me on First Time Mum’s Chat. Your dedication to your baby’s well being is truly inspiring and I’m honoured to be a part of your parenting journey.

To recap, we’ve explored how baby massage can be a gentle and effective way to soothe colic, strengthen your bond with your little one and bring comfort to both of you. Remember, these techniques are simple yet powerful tools you can incorporate into your daily routine.

I’m always here to support you, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, or share your experience. You can connect with me on Instagram or send me a message through my website. Your feedback is invaluable and I’d love to hear how these techniques are working for you. If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on your favourite podcast platform and sharing it with fellow mums who might benefit.

Your support helped us reach more parents and build a community of empowered and informed mums. Thank you once again for being here. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey and together, we can navigate the beautiful complexities of motherhood. Until next time, take care and happy bonding.