Found a great blog for mom's in DC!

I just came across a blog for mom's in DC.  I found that there are quite a few resources to take a look at, so go ahead and browse!

http://www.expectinginsidethebeltway.blogspot.com/

"MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT"

Something New: Benefits of Infant Massage for You and Baby

Infant Massage for Parents and Caregivers 

“…as easy as I Love You.”

Infant massage in the U.S. became popular in the 1970’s after Vimala McClure developed the first curriculum for infant massage.  It was based on her experiences of working in an Indian orphanage.  There she learned traditional Indian massage. 

Prior to this time science was proving that it is touch, not food that binds the infant to the caregiver.  Now we understand that the concept of touch is so vital to an infant’s emotional wellbeing. Infant massage is widely accepted in hospitals across the nation as a nursing intervention to promote healing, growth, and relaxation.

In addition to the benefits listed above, infant massage also:

·         Promotes bonding and attachment

·         Enhances sense of love

·         Enhances communication

·         Stimulates circulation

·         Increases digestion

·         Reduces colic symptoms

·         Improves muscle tone coordination

·         Calms the nervous system leading to more restful sleep

·         Improves relaxation and release of stress

·         Can decrease symptoms of post-partum depression

·         Increase prolactin in mothers

·         Reduces parental blood pressure

Natural oil should be used and massage can be performed daily.  A complete massage routine lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. 

Parents and caregivers should understand the guidelines for infant massage prior to initiating massage routines with a baby.

Infant massage classes will include:

·         Instruction on massage strokes

·         An educational component

·         Open discussion on parenting issues (Think: “Mom’s + Tea Time = Me Time!)

Resources:

International Association of Infant Massage

www.iaim-us.com

www.iaim.org.uk

Mondays are for Starting Something New: Innovative Monday!

MONDAYS...

Monday's can sometimes be the most dreaded day of the week.... Unless you look at it as a chance to start something new!  A new way to approach your work, a new opportunity to learn from one another, and a new chance to change the way you look at the world.

My Monday is all about seeing opportunity in a new place!  Once upon a time we were taught that you could find certain things in certain places.  We shouldn't keep ourselves thinking "inside the box" our whole life!  What if we found something we weren't looking for in an odd place, or can't find what we were looking for in the place where we currently are?

We should approach our work in a new and innovative way today.  Let's see what we find!
Share your comments and stories of what you did today that was different, innovative, and new!

 Yawn...it's a Monday....  NO WAY!! GET EXCITED!

Gift Giving: Objects or Human Interactions?

We are in the gift-giving spirit these days as the holidays are upon us.  Most of us are buying for our Secret Santa, friends, relatives, and those who are less fortunate.  We buy toys, clothes, games, crafts, electronics, books, nooks, iPads, puppies, gift cards... the list could go on and on.


The best part about gift giving is the feeling one has when giving or receiving a gift.  We feel "good" when we feel like we've made someone else happy, made a difference in their lives, or given them what they want or need.


What about the gift of education?  "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day.  Teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime."


So this season, think about giving the gift of Infant Massage Instruction to someone you know.  It will benefit the loving bond between a parent and a child.  


For any reason, any season, and any day, Infant Massage Instruction is always a good gift idea!