Baby spas are the trend, and it seems like it’s getting increasingly more popular nowadays. It’s certainly cute, no doubt, especially with how the babies looked when massaged, floating on the water with solemn faces and relaxed movements. But of course, it’s not all fun and games. Baby spas, in general, are still a massive topic in debates: are they beneficial or detrimental to the health of our babies? That said, if you’re here to learn more about baby spas, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we will discuss everything you should know about baby spas and whether going to one with your baby is worth it. Let’s start.
What is a Baby Spa?
So, first of all, let’s talk about what a baby spa is. Baby spa, or as some call it, baby massage, is an excellent way of enhancing your bonding time with your babies as they reap the benefits the spa session can offer. Essentially, it is the gentle and rhythmic caring of your baby’s arms, wrists, fingers, ankles, and other body parts that your baby will enjoy being massaged. Some baby spas even employ a total body massage through different methods like a water spa or a whole body massage. It is a form of therapy and treatment for babies six months to a year old. Typically, a baby spa comprises two components: hydrotherapy and light massage and pampering. But how do babies react to it? Before babies learn to communicate verbally, they employ mannerisms and physical cues. The mothers would then respond through physical touch like cuddling, kissing, touching, or even using a soft and flexible orthodontic pacifier for infants to simulate the mother’s nipple. Baby spas take advantage of this, making the babies feel safe and comfortable with their mothers during the session.
Benefits of a Baby Spa
If you’re still unsure of how a session can help you, here are the pros a baby spa can offer.
Hydrotherapy Accelerates Growth
For a long time, experts have recommended hydrotherapy for infants since it boosts the growth of the bones and muscles. Swimming is a great exercise, but since babies can’t swim, simply floating around is enough to boost their growth. It’s also an exciting way for them to play in the water. So, if you want to make your baby fond of the water as they grow up, you can start doing so through hydrotherapy.Image Alt Text- soft and flexible orthodontic pacifier designed for infantsLandingPage- https://drtalbots.com/products/soft-flex-orthodontic-pacifiers-0-6-months-2-pack
Improve Coordination
For a human to swim, they have to have good coordination. Experts say babies already have it as an innate ability, which can be improved through swimming. Not only that, but babies are naturally adept at balancing. So, how can hydrotherapy improve a baby’s coordination? Even though hydrotherapy doesn’t include swimming, bobbing about the water, and using their limbs to paddle through, it is very beneficial for your baby. It can even help them prepare for exercises in the future, especially in swimming.
They are Less Stressed, Which Makes for a Happier Baby
A baby spa session will keep your baby entertained while also relaxing them. Baby spas aim to calm the baby’s senses and get them to feel better by employing relaxing techniques by massaging them at crucial points. By being in a relaxed state, they will stay well-behaved during the session and even after you go home. Babies are prone to stress, mainly because they cannot express it like adults do. So, a baby spa can help alleviate their troubles.
Drawbacks of a Baby Spa
But of course, baby spas aren’t without cons, and many experts have expressed this over the years. Here are some of them:
Neck Rings Can Strain Your Babies
Babies don’t float, so baby spas employ neck rings to keep your baby’s head above the water and avoid the risk of drowning. Because of this, the head and shoulder of the baby might be strained, which can be detrimental to its development. Not only that, but your baby can also sustain injuries with prolonged use.
Floating Feels Isolating
Floating on the water with limited head movement can be stressful for some babies. Because of this restriction, they won’t be able to look around their surroundings and see their mothers. This can feel isolating and scary for your babies. You can read a baby’s body language to determine if they are scared during their time in the water or how they feel about the whole thing. If you notice that they are getting scared, you can join and soothe them through words.
Final Words
So, is a baby spa worth it? Although baby spas have pros and cons, it is up to you at the end of the day. However, it’s always wise to talk to your pediatrician first to make sure. In general, baby spas can be done once in a while. And if allowed, then it’s a worthwhile activity you can do with your baby. But still, you should need to do your research first as to whether it’s safe for your baby and if the baby spa you’re planning to go to is certified. Remember, your baby should be your priority at all times. Their safety is paramount, after all.