Infant massage

“If no one had ever touched us, we would be paralyzed. If no one had ever spoken to us, we would be mute. If no one had ever smiled at us or looked at us, we would be blind. If no one had ever loved us, we would be NOBODY.”

I want to explain to you, in a simple way, what infant massage consists of.

When my first daughter, Eloïse, was born, I had the opportunity to attend an AEMI infant massage course. I loved the experience so much that I decided to train as an educator so I could share this magical moment with other families.

1. What is the AEMI Infant Massage course?

Infant massage is an intimate moment between the baby and the caregiver, whether a mother, father, grandmother, aunt, or any other caregiver. Through a sequence of massages performed by the caregivers and the baby's responses, a unique language is created that fosters emotional bonding and mutual well-being.

It's an ancient tradition in many cultures around the world, supported by studies that highlight the importance of emotional contact during the first years of life. Infant massage is one of the most pleasurable and natural ways to establish that first contact.

2. Benefits of infant massage

Infant massage provides multiple benefits, including:

• Emotional: Strengthens the bond, improves communication, fosters mutual respect and love.

• Physical: Stimulates all vital systems and contributes to language development.

• Relaxation: Improves sleep patterns, increases flexibility and reduces stress.

• Relief: Helps with colic, constipation and muscle tension.

3. AEMI and Vimala McClure

The Spanish Association of Infant Massage (AEMI) is a non-profit organization founded in 1994 and is part of the International Association of Infant Massage (IAIM), created in 1981 in the United States.

Vimala McClure, founder of IAIM, began in 1976 after working in an orphanage in India, where she learned Indian massage techniques. Upon her return, she applied these techniques to her children, adding elements of Swedish massage, reflexology, and yoga. The benefits she observed inspired her to teach these techniques to other parents.

Today, IAIM infant massage courses are the same worldwide, based on these teachings.

4. How is the course organized? Who can participate?

The course consists of five weekly sessions, lasting approximately one and a half to two hours per session. During the classes, there is a practical part in which I show caregivers the movements they can perform with their babies, and a theoretical part where there are moments of discussion and group exchange of experiences.

Each week, massage is taught for a different part of the body: for example, the first session focuses on the legs and feet, the second on the arms, and so on. In addition, an explanation of a specific massage recommended for relieving colic and gas in babies is included.

Mothers, fathers, or anyone caring for the baby can participate. Although it is preferable for the same person to attend all sessions, couples can alternate or even participate together if they wish. The course is aimed at babies up to 12 months old, including newborns and those with special needs.

More information about AEMI and IAIM

You can find more details about IAIM at www.iaim.net or about AEMI in www.masajeinfantil.es.

Where and when?
Do you have questions or want more information?

Contact me to find out about upcoming courses.

Call the 622 43 91 43 or write to me at camilla.marks@gmail.com.

THANK YOU!