How to Massage a Baby: Step-by-Step Ayurvedic Guide

Before You Begin: What You Need

Here’s what to gather before starting:

• A soft towel or cotton sheet
• Ayurvedic baby massage oil (herbal, safe, chemical-free)
• Warm water to heat the oil
• A change of clothes
• A quiet, warm room
• Your calm attention

Keep everything within reach. You don’t want to leave mid-massage to grab something.

Step 1: Pick the Right Time

Choose a time when:

• Your baby is alert but calm
• At least 45 minutes after feeding
• You have 20–30 minutes free
• Your baby isn’t cranky, sleepy, or overstimulated

Morning is often ideal—it energizes the baby and sets a rhythm for the day.
If you prefer evenings, aim for post-sunset and follow with a bath and bedtime.

Step 2: Warm the Oil Gently

Take about 2–3 tablespoons of oil in a small bowl and place it in warm water for a few minutes.

Test the temperature on your inner wrist. It should feel comfortably warm—not hot.

Ayurveda recommends warm oil because it opens up the skin pores and enhances absorption.

Step 3: Create a Calm, Cozy Environment

Turn off the fan or AC to avoid chills. Dim the lights. Lay a soft towel or mat on a flat surface.

You can play soft music, chant, or just talk gently to your baby.

This helps them feel secure. When your baby is relaxed, the body naturally accepts touch and stimulation better.

Step 4: Start With the Scalp and Head

Pour a few drops of oil into your palms and rub them together.

Start by gently massaging the scalp in small, circular motions with your fingertips.

Be careful around the fontanelle (the soft spot). Don’t apply pressure—just caress the area gently.

Massage the sides of the head, temples, and behind the ears.

This step calms the nervous system, promotes better sleep, and stimulates the brain.

Step 5: Move to the Face

Take a little oil and use your fingers to stroke the forehead, eyebrows, cheeks, and chin.

Use upward motions on the cheeks and gentle circles on the temples.

Avoid the eyes, nostrils, and mouth. You don’t need a lot of oil here.

This helps with facial muscle tone, teething tension, and expressions.

Step 6: Massage the Chest and Shoulders

Place your palms on your baby’s chest and gently move outward in a heart-shaped motion.

Now, make small circular strokes on the shoulders and clavicle area.

Avoid putting pressure on the center of the chest.

This step opens the chest, supports breathing, and enhances circulation.

Step 7: Tummy Massage – Be Gentle

Massage the tummy in a clockwise circular motion—this follows the natural path of digestion.

Use flat fingers and light pressure.

You can also do “I Love U” strokes—trace the letters across the baby’s abdomen.

Tummy massage helps release gas, prevents colic, and improves appetite.

Avoid this step if the baby seems uncomfortable or has just eaten.

Step 8: Arms and Hands

Lift one arm and massage from shoulder to wrist in long, smooth strokes.

Use your thumb and fingers to gently roll each arm like a chapati roller.

Massage the palms and each little finger with circular thumb motions.

Repeat on the other side.

This improves muscle tone, motor skills, and builds arm strength.

Step 9: Legs and Feet

Now move to the legs. Use firm but gentle strokes from thigh to ankle.

Massage the knees in circular motions, then the ankles, soles, and toes.

Press the centre of the soles with your thumbs—it’s a vital Marma point in Ayurveda.

Foot massage helps balance energy, improve blood flow, and prepare the baby for crawling and walking.

Step 10: Back Massage (Tummy Time)

Gently turn your baby over on their tummy.

Place your hands on the shoulders and stroke down to the hips.

Use circular motions on the back and the buttocks. Don’t press directly on the spine.

This strengthens the spine, supports posture, and soothes any back tension.

Step 11: Let the Oil Soak In

Once you’re done with the massage, let your baby lie down for 10–20 minutes.

This allows the herbs and oils to fully absorb.

You can cover them with a light towel or blanket to keep them warm.

Step 12: Follow With a Warm Bath

After resting, give your baby a warm bath using:

• A gentle Ayurvedic baby cleanser
• Natural ubtan made from herbs and flours (for older babies)
• Or just plain warm water for newborns

Use soft cotton towels to dry. Gently pat, don’t rub.

Apply a light moisturizer if needed.

Tips to Make Massage Easier and More Enjoyable

• Always keep eye contact and smile
• Talk or sing softly throughout
• Follow your baby’s cues—stop if they seem overstimulated
• Keep the massage short if your baby is new to it
• Be regular—babies thrive on consistency

And most importantly—relax. Your calm energy is what your baby will respond to.

What Are the Real Benefits of Ayurvedic Baby Massage?

We often talk about massage as a nice thing to do. But here’s what Ayurveda-backed science says:

Physical Benefits

• Improves circulation and muscle strength
• Boosts bone development and weight gain
• Supports better sleep patterns
• Enhances skin texture and glow
• Helps digestion and reduces gas

Emotional and Developmental Benefits

• Builds parent-baby bonding
• Reduces stress and crankiness
• Improves baby’s ability to self-soothe
• Stimulates sensory and neural pathways
• Helps in achieving physical milestones

It’s truly a mind-body-soul routine.

How Long Should a Baby Massage Take?

• For newborns: 10–15 minutes
• For 2–6 months: 15–20 minutes
• For older babies: Up to 30 minutes (if they enjoy it)

You can also split the session—legs in the morning, arms in the evening. Flexibility is your best friend here.

When to Avoid Baby Massage

Skip massage if your baby:

• Has a fever or is unwell
• Just got vaccinated (wait 24–48 hours)
• Has broken skin, rashes, or infections
• Is extremely hungry or tired
• Is resisting—massage should never be forced

Listen to your baby’s body. They’ll tell you what’s working and what’s not.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Oil and Touch

When you massage your baby, you're not just helping them grow physically.

You’re saying, “I see you. I’m here. I love you.”

Ayurvedic baby massage is one of the few parenting practices that combines tradition, science, intuition, and love, all in one beautiful daily ritual.

So take a deep breath. Warm that oil. And let your hands do the magic.

You're not just raising a child. You're nurturing a soul.

FAQs About Ayurvedic Baby Massage

Can I use massage oils every day?

Yes! Ayurvedic oils are made for daily use. Choose season-appropriate ones and patch-test before regular use.

Should I massage before or after a bath?

Always before. The bath helps wash off excess oil and opens pores for detox.

Is it okay to massage in summer?

Absolutely. Just switch to cooling oils like coconut, and massage during cooler parts of the day.

How long should I continue baby massage?

Ayurveda suggests daily massage for at least the first 2 years—and even longer if the child enjoys it.