A happy mama is a happy baby!
There are many significant goals and benefits of postnatal massage. Some of those many benefits include:
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improved sleep
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improves sore arms, wrists, shoulders from breastfeeding
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addresses the tissue around Cesarean scaring
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rapid reduction in swelling
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better feeding of baby
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alleviated symptoms of anxiety and postpartum depression
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supports healthy lactation
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helps to restore the uterus to its original state
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relieves cramping
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increases blood circulation and stimulates the lymph system
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offers a natural way to soothe and nurture mothers as they adjust to shifting hormones and motherhood
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and overall relief of pain
Because of the chronic strain placed upon physical tissues over a nine-month span, a postnatal massage may seem like a typical injury recovery session. Abdominal massage techniques can be used to encourage abdominal healing.​
When to receive postpartum massage
For mothers who delivered vaginally with no complications, you are able to receive postpartum massage as soon as you deliver your baby, with your own comfort level. Most women receive a postpartum massage within the first 3-6 weeks. It is best to wait six weeks to receive a regular postpartum massage after a cesarean birth. I recommend that you receive a postpartum massage every 1-3 weeks for the first 12 weeks after delivery to aid in postpartum recovery and leave you with a sense of wellbeing.​
I don't have anyone to watch my baby, can my baby come to my appointment?
Absolutely! I encourage you to bring baby in the first 1-3 months after birth to promote bonding and relaxation for both mom and baby. During your session, we can also go over some infant massage techniques you can use at home. ​
What to expect from a postpartum session
During your first postpartum massage session, I like to spend extra time discussing your birth story and to find out how you are healing and adjusting to caring for your newborn. Based on that discussion, I create a unique postpartum massage session to address your specific needs and offer resources that may be needed. Some of the massage therapy used may include heat, specific reflexology points, aromatherapy, and abdominal massage.​ I also like to focus on the upper body to support and address the areas of tension while holding and feeding baby.
Postpartum massage positioning
You can lie on your belly again! However, some women may still find it difficult to lay face down on a massage table due to the increased size of their breasts. In this case, I provide extra support cushioning under your chest to allow you to lay face down and be comfortable to receive your postnatal massage. Side-laying is also an option with pillows, which is also great for those healing from a cesarean birth.
I recommend that you breastfeed or pump right before your massage to enhance your comfort and relaxation during your session. If your newborn is fussy or would like to nurse while you are on the massage table, I can continue the massage in a side-lying position, allowing you to nurse/comfort your child.
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Add-on Options (additional cost at check-out): Manual Cupping, Hot Stone, Hot/Cold Stone, & Himalayan Salt Stone