Massage of the face and head is a great relaxer and rejuvenator. Think of the times when you've been up late at night, at the computer finishing work, folding laundry, or rocking your baby. What do you do? Like many tired moms, you probably reach up and massage your head, tug at your hair a bit, and maybe pull the skin across your forehead. We read this as a sign of exasperation... but guess what: massaging the face and scalp is a great way to bring extra circulation up to your brain! No wonder that's our natural reaction when we're tired! Our bodies are "telling us" what to do!
I actually like to do a quick face massage on myself before I begin massage with James. It is VERY relaxing, and it only takes a minute. I always feel better after a quick face massage, and I'm much more relaxed to be patient when James when he is fussy.
Although these benefits are available to your baby as well, keep in mind that getting their faces rubbed - while ultimately soothing - is a bit strange. It's important to talk to your baby throughout a face massage, to let them know that everything is fine and that they're cheeks aren't being pulled and prodded for no reason.
Also, you should not use oil for face massage. If you have oil on your hands from the rest of the body massage, that is fine (Remember, it should be an oil from the cooking isle!), but you don't need to add extra oil to your hands just for the head and face.
Let your hair down and try this massage on yourself before massaging your baby. It will feel great!
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