Power Of Motion In Newborns; As a new parent, you must be wondering how to soothe your precious newborn baby when they cry inconsolably, particularly during those long and restless nights. You may have tried newborn pacifiers, swaddling, white noise machines, and even serenading them with gentle lullabies that warm your heart. Yet, despite your best efforts, it may seem like nothing can bring them comfort.
There is another tried-and-true method that has been used for centuries to calm newborns: motion. The power of motion in newborns, whether it’s the gentle rocking of a cradle, a soothing swaying motion, or even a comforting newborn stroll in a stroller, the power of motion in newborns has proven to be incredibly effective in providing solace to newborns and babies in distress.
So, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of motion and find what works best for your little bundle of joy. Embrace the age-old wisdom and let the rhythm of movement create a sense of security and tranquility for your newborn baby.
In this blog, I will explore how motion soothes newborns and what you can do to incorporate it into your newborn, baby’s home routine.
The Science Behind Power Of Motion In Newborns –
Before we jump into the benefits of motion, let’s first understand why motion works. While in the womb, babies are used to constant movement, as they are essentially floating in amniotic fluid. Motion provides familiar sensations, which your baby finds calming. When a baby is held or rocked, their body experiences physical stimulation that triggers a reflex called the vestibular system, which is responsible for the sense of balance. The vestibular system helps regulate a baby’s breathing pattern, heart rate, and sleep patterns.
Benefits of Power of Motion In Newborns –
Motion has several benefits for newborns, including:
Promotes better sleep: Motion helps your baby fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It mimics the motion of a mother walking, which is similar to the feeling of being rocked in a sleep-inducing motion.
Reduces crying: Motion can help soothe fussy or colicky babies by providing a comforting sensation. The gentle motion helps distract your baby from their discomfort, reducing the urge to cry.
Promotes newborn digestion: Motion helps move gas and food through your baby’s digestive system, reducing gas, bloating, and colic.
Enhances bonding: Rocking or holding your baby in motion promotes physical bonding. Skin-to-skin contact during motion releases ‘feel-good’ hormones like oxytocin, which strengthens the bond between parents and newborns.
Ways to Incorporate Power Of Motion In Newborns –
There are several ways to incorporate motion into your baby’s routine, including:
Rocking newborn baby in a chair: Invest in a comfortable rocking chair, and use it when you feed or hold your baby.
Swinging: A baby swing is a great way to provide gentle motion when you need to put your baby down. Many swings have built-in music and white noise that provide additional soothing effects.
Babywearing: Carrying your baby in a baby carrier or sling while walking provides motion, proximity, and bonding.
Car rides: A car ride can be a great way to soothe a fussy baby, as it provides gentle, constant motion and white noise from the hum of the car.
Safety Precautions – Power of Motion In Newborns
While motion is an excellent way to soothe your baby, there are safety precautions to keep in mind, including:
Never leave your baby unattended in a swing or bouncer.
Don’t fall asleep while holding your baby.
Avoid rough or excessive bouncing, as it can cause shaken baby syndrome.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, power of motion in newborns is a powerful way to calm your newborn. By creating a routine that includes movement, you can foster better sleep, reduce crying, enhance bonding, and promote digestion. Remember to always prioritize your baby’s safety and consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new methods of soothing your baby. With patience and practice, you too can find ways to incorporate motion into your baby’s routine and enjoy the calming effects it provides.
To learn more about these helpful tips or to book a newborn photography or Dallas cake smash photographer session with Lily Hayes Photography, please submit an inquiry here.