Massaging your baby is not only an intimate way for you to spend time with him/her, it's also a great way to maintain his/her health. You're gently exercising your baby's muscles to encourage growth as well as help with digestion and the absorption of nutrition. It also comforts your baby and creates a sense of well-being, which is perfect before his/her bedtime.

You can start with a massage routine as early as 2 or 3 days after birth. The best time for massaging your baby is around an hour or so after feeding and should be done in a temperate room of around 25 degrees celcius. Prepare a blanket for your baby to lie on, a clean towel and baby massage oil. Make sure that the lights are dimmed, that you are in a quiet environment and that your hands are warm before you start. You can do basic massages to your baby's chest, back and stomach and gently stretch his/her limbs. Each session can last around 20 minutes.

In addition, you can also bond with your baby by creating a special routine that you can share during a diaper change. Here are some suggestions:

	Keep a checkbox or CD player nearby and play music that's good for humming or singing along.
	Tickle your baby's tummy, wiggle toes, name body parts.
	Keep one of your baby's favorite toys nearby.
	Decorate the walls, light colorful patterns and shapes are baby favorites.
	Talk about what you're doing - it helps to develop your baby's language skills.