10/04/2026
Little tummies, big relief — baby massage tips for digestion
There’s been a flurry of babies born from my Pregnancy Yoga classes lately, and it has inspired me to share something I absolutely love teaching — simple massage techniques to help ease your baby’s digestion. 💜
In those early months, wind, colic, and constipation are so common, and it can feel overwhelming when your baby is unsettled and you’re not sure how to help. The good news? Your hands are one of the most powerful tools you have. Here’s where to start:
👐 Clockwise circles — using a flat palm, make slow, gentle circles around your baby’s tummy in a CLOCKWISE direction. This follows the natural movement of the large intestine and helps stimulate blood flow to the digestive system. It’s deeply soothing — and releases oxytocin (that gorgeous bonding hormone!) in both of you.
🌸 Daisy pattern — use your first two fingertips to trace soft petal shapes around the belly button. This works in a more concentrated way, gently stimulating peristalsis in the small intestines — the rhythmical movement of the digestive tract that helps milk move through and nutrients absorb.
🌈 Paint a rainbow — sweep your fingertips from the top of the left hip, up and over the belly button, and down to the right hip. This is especially helpful for constipation, but wonderful for general digestive balance too.
🚲 Leg cycling — hold your baby’s lower legs and gently alternate each knee up towards their chest. Perfect for wind... and yes, expect sound effects 😄 We have a favourite song for this one in class — you’ll find out when you join us!
🧘 Happy Baby pose — bring both knees gently to the chest and hold for a few seconds. Simple, effective, and a great wind reliever! 💨
The magic of these techniques goes beyond digestion. Each time you massage your baby, you are communicating safety, love, and presence. The eye contact, the touch, the rhythm — it all builds oxytocin for both of you, supports your baby’s nervous system, and quietly builds your own confidence as a parent. On the harder days, it’s a beautiful way to come back to each other. 🫂