10 things to know about the spa for babies

Les spas pour bébés se multiplient en Belgique, et de plus en plus de jeunes mamans craquent pour les bienfaits des massages et de l’hydrothérapie pour leurs petits bouts. De quoi s’agit-il exactement ? Quels sont les avantages et inconvénients ? Par où commencer ?

One might think that the wellness for babies are yet another fad in the Western world.However, in many traditions, massage is an integral part of the daily care of newborns.Especially in India, mothers are followers of the traditional art of Shantala, a rhythmic massage.More and more specialized centers are also dedicated to this tradition, and this is a good thing: the benefits of a spa are infinite for babies.

What is a spa for babies?

Most spas offer the hydrotherapy-massage combo.First of all, the baby can enjoy half an hour in a specially designed mini jacuzzi, after which he is massaged for 30 minutes during which the parents are initiated into the technique.The most widespread is that of the Shantala, mentioned above, but there are others, in particular inspired by Chinese traditions.

In the bubble bath, we place a perfectly safe special buoy around the baby's neck, after which it can wade while enjoying freedom and weightlessness in water.Most young children spend their lying days, nestled in the arms of their parents or in a seat, we can easily imagine the kind of Kick that results.If we believe the cries of pleasure that fuse from all sides, the spa would also promote the emotional and physical growth of babies.

What are the advantages of the wellness for babies?

The advantages are innumerable.Scientific studies have repeatedly confirmed the beneficial effect of affectionate touches and skin-to-skin contacts on the positive development of a child.It is therefore no coincidence that most maternities actively recommend this type of contact since birth.The combination of new stimuli and a soothing environment promotes engine development, autonomy and confidence of the baby.It strengthens muscle development and the immune system, improves breathing, digestion and circulation (and therefore the elimination of toxins).It has beneficial effects on sleep and makes it possible to better fight against colic and reflux.The gentle counterfection of water and bubbles, as well as the movements of rhythmic massage, increase the pulmonary capacity of babies and help them to breathe deeper.

Advice: For young dads who feel like you are less involved than the mother, the spa for babies is a must.Not only will they share a pleasant moment with their little end, but physical contact will also help them build a link and mutual trust.

Who is the spa for babies for?

All babies can benefit from it and are welcome, from 14 days to about six months - some centers go up to nine months.There is an age limit for practical reasons: at one point, they are simply too large for the baths and live the stimuli differently.They will tend to try to play faster, which will make them less inclined to relax.Massages are beneficial at any age and can also be practiced on the sidelines of hydrotherapy - although they become a little more difficult as soon as they learn to drive and crawl.

Although the treatment is good for all babies, the baby spa will deal with certain problems in particular.For example, it seems to be of great help for babies who do not sleep well, prematurers, babies born by cesarean and suffering from colic or respiratory problems.Depending on the problem, there are also specific massage techniques, so do not hesitate to indicate to the guide on what you want to work.

Are there situations where the spa for babies is not recommended?

In case of illness, high fever and inflammation, it is better to avoid it.Ditto after a vaccine, when the risk of fever increases.Too tired babies will not react well either to the surge of new stimuli, a good nap is therefore probably a better idea.Does your baby suffer from rashes or eczema?Ask first advice from the pediatrician.

How many times have you been massaging your baby to get tangible effects?

One visit is enough.Indeed, the benefits of a massage on a baby are almost immediate.There are many stories of crying babies who, after a session, sleep several hours in a row for the first time in weeks, or constipated babies who immediately fill a layer.

For a positive long -term result, it is recommended to massage your baby at least once a week.It is important to practice massage slowly and make it last a little longer each time, to lead to a ritual of about thirty minutes.There is no need to massage the whole body every time: you can focus on the feet, arms or abdomen.Of course, each baby is different and will find one more pleasant than the other.A child who has not gone to saddle for a long time can protest a little when you pressure his belly, but he will quickly feel the beneficial effects.

If your baby really suffers from insomnia or cramps, it is recommended to go to the spa every two weeks.The hydrotherapy-massage combo is then perfectly recommended.

What should be avoided during a massage?

Baby massage mainly consists in touching and kneading the fragile body slightly.There is no question here to hit or shake.

The massage product also has all its importance.Pure sweet almond oil is best suited to all skin types and produces a moisturizing effect on the dry skin of young children.Scented oils have a higher risk of allergy and you also have to find out about the plant, flower or seed which serves as a basis for essential oils - ask for advice from an expert.Orange blossom, patchouli and rose cannot hurt.Almond oil has heated virtues, so in very hot weather (or in case of eczema), it is better to opt for refreshing talc.

Is the neck buoy sure?

Absolutely !The diameter of this "collar buoy" is generally nine centimeters, one less than the head of an average baby, and it can bear a weight of twenty kilos, so the possibility of seeing your baby slide should not youworry.There is also no pressure on the neck, because the chin and the back of the head are supported by the strap.Besides, most young babies do not feel the buoy because they are weightless in the water.

Is the spa for babies hygienic?

In a good spa, the baths are carefully cleaned, disinfected and supplied with clean water after each session.Furthermore, the Higher Health Council considering chlorine as a "poison" in the water for children, there is none of them.

Water jets, which generate bubbles, are not recommended either because dirt can accumulate more quickly.A more hygienic alternative is the use of air jets - do not be afraid to find out about this.

In practice

As mentioned earlier, it is best to go to a spa with a healthy and well nourished baby, because the treatment makes babies hungry.We advise you to feed your baby about half an hour before the session and have a bottle at hand that you will give him after the session.Also provide clean layers and soft clothes to prolong the feeling of relaxation.Most centers provide their own swimming layers, massage oils and towels.

Where to go ?

Tested and approved: Babilo in Tervuren (a stone's throw from Brussels), where you can not only enjoy the wellness for babies, but also interesting workshops on first aid and communication with baby.In addition, the SPA has a beautiful store of sustainable material for babies offering brands like Tikiri, Jack 'N Jill, Plantoys and Babylonia, among others.

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