A massage with vigorous slips on the baby's body. It's the call massage for babies Shantala. The technique, which has been around for 5,000 years, was brought to the west by French obstetrician Frédérick Leboyer. The doctor was in India when he saw a mother massaging her baby, he studied the technique and then published the book Shantala, Massage for babies: a traditional art.
According to the Maternal Infant Physiotherapist Shantala Specialist and Babies, Denise Gurgel, a Shantala can bring numerous benefits to the baby.. • The baby has a real need for physical contact and tactile stimulation acquired during pregnancy, so receiving Shantala is a need for him to provide affection and contact. And this is when the bond between mother and child is consolidated ?, explains the teacher of massage.
"When touched tenderly after birth, he remembers that sense of security of pregnancy and feels protected," he adds.
In addition, the technique allows the relaxation and well being of the child, which contributes to better quality sleep, better gastrointestinal functioning, aid in breathing, sensorimotor development and growth. "For all these benefits, Shantala proves to be very effective in acting in three fields: emotional, physical and physiological," warns the physiotherapist.
For the mother, massage can be a moment of intimacy and pleasure with the baby. "The technique allows the mother to know the body language of the child and thus she will better identify any different situation in everyday life," he explains.
Learn in the course
The physiotherapist explains that Shantala can be performed by either mother, father, or any other family member, but needs to be learned. Ideally, those interested should look for technical courses because it has several principles. And for all the benefits of massage to be felt, it is important that the tradition be preserved ?, he explains.
It is also indicated the use of vegetable oil for massage application. This way the hands run more easily and the child's skin does not suffer and is still nourished.
According to the physiotherapist there is no contraindication to massage, but it is important to consult a pediatrician. • All babies and children can receive Shantala, usually from one month of life. Respect only the umbilical healing and peeling of the skin ?, warns.
THE massage can bring benefits to children born with neurological or premature sequelae, with motor delays. "It also assists in the treatment of children with cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome and autism", concludes the expert.
How Massages can help your Baby (March 2024)
- Babies
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