The importance of movement
Hey mama, babies spend a lot of time sleeping, especially newborns. This means they get little movement at first which can cause tummy problems.
Here's a 5 step technique that can help create movement in your babies tummy:
- Lay baby down on back
- Place both hands at either side of babies tummy
- Lift baby slightly and make slow clockwise circular movements
- Move both hands down to babies hips
- Lift baby slightly and make slow figure of 8 movements
What is the purpose of creating movement in my baby's tummy?
It's important that you try to stimulate movement especially after feeding, babies who lack movement can become constipated, this can create gas and discomfort.
If your baby's tummy doesn't have enough movement, it can result in the milk moving too slowly. Slow moving milk can ferment and produce wind in your baby's tummy which can be painful.
Why do I move clockwise on my baby's tummy?
The circular movement helps to make space in your baby's tummy which can give the milk a chance to move around.
Moving milk around in your baby's tummy, specifically in a clockwise position pushes the milk to the left side of the abdomen, this is where your baby’s stomach and intestines sit and can release gas. So always massage and move to the left side of your baby's abdomen, not the right side.
What is the purpose of the figure of 8 on my baby's hips?
Let the baby move with you while turning the hips side to side in the figure of 8. This movement can relieve any gas pain and discomfort.
There are other techniques you may be familiar with to relieve gas and constipation such as bicycle legs, rainbows and bubbles.
Ultimately, anything you can do to help create movement to move the milk around can support your baby to reduce the chances of constipation, gas and discomfort.
Remember, every baby is different, so it's essential to pay attention to your baby's cues and adjust your movement techniques accordingly. You know your baby better than anyone and what works for you.
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