WHOLE BODY SUPPORT
I’ve done a mixture of these with my babies every day (my oldest is 4 and we still do some movements together when she lets me). When my babies were newborns, the movements were slow and a little stiff. As they grew out of the newborn stage, the movements became easier and more fluid. Take it slow and make it fun! Even a few minutes of intentional bodywork a day can make a huge difference.
Start by watching the videos and trying as many different movements as you can! Listen to your intuition on which ones feel best for your baby. If there are any movements that baby doesn’t like, keep offering them here and there - even if it’s just for a few seconds. Take it slow and go at your baby’s pace. Never push through cries. Consistently offer them the opportunity to soften and open up in the stretches. It gets easier over time!
Psst!! There’s even more bodywork ideas in my At-Home Bodywork Highlight on Instagram!
Click the bubble!
If you want someone to give you step-by-step instructions and in-depth explanations for At-Home Bodywork, check out these resources.
Where To Start With At-Home Bodywork
Video by Know and Nurture
7 Simple Bodywork Movements
This was the very first video I found when I was searching for bodywork movements I could do at home with my first born.
Demonstrating the Back Push-Pull, Shoulder Push-Pull, Rollee-Pollee, Ping-Pong Ribcage, Cross Stretch, Tummy-Time Bum Rock, and Guppy Pose.
Video by Benjamin Peterson
Rhythmic Movements for Breastfeeding Difficulties
Demonstrating the Sushi Roll, Longitudinal Rocking, Ribcage Rocking, & Side-lying Rocking
Video by Doula My Soul Lactation Services
Supportive Massage for Babies with Low Tone
Video by Gaelen Gibson
Bodywork for Head Turn Preference
Video by lalactation
Stretches for Head Turn Preference
Video by lalactation
In Real Time
My son is 3 months old here. We go slowly and take our time with the movements. I often mix and match different bodywork movements for what feels good to do in the moment. It’s not a checklist or always in a particular order - I trust my intuition based on how his body feels and how it responds to movements on each side.
Video by Know and Nurture
Disclaimer: The purpose of this content is for educational and informational purposes only. None of these videos are medical or professional advice. None of this content is a replacement for therapy or medical care of any kind. The examples are shown with healthy babies. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have concerns or questions regarding your baby and their development.