Infant Massage
The History and Importance of Infant Massage
Touch is the very first sense to develop in utero, and it plays a critical role in supporting a baby’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development. For thousands of years, infant massage has been a cherished practice in cultures around the world, especially in regions of India and Africa where it remains a daily routine. This ancient art was introduced to the United States by Vimala McClure, founder of the International Association of Infant Massage, where I received my training. While working in an orphanage in India, Vimala witnessed children of all ages lovingly massaging infants, and she observed the calming effects and strong self-awareness those babies developed through nurturing touch. Since then, certified infant massage instructors have taught this practice to parents and caregivers in over 50 countries, promoting deeper connection and well-being for families around the globe.
Infant massage differs from the everyday touch we share with our babies—like during diaper changes, feedings, or cuddles. While all of these forms of contact are important, mindful and intentional therapeutic touch has unique benefits. It helps babies learn what nurturing, respectful touch feels like, enhances healthy sensory integration, and supports developmental milestones. It also fosters stronger communication between parent and baby by teaching caregivers how to read their baby’s cues. In our classes, we use a gentle blend of Swedish and Indian massage techniques, baby reflexology, and infant yoga to create a rich, holistic experience for both baby and caregiver.
Why I’m Passionate About Teaching Infant Massage
My passion for infant massage grew from personal experience. After my son was born, I discovered infant massage and immediately wished I had known about it earlier. Not only would it have supported my son’s development and helped soothe his tiny body, but it would have been a powerful tool for our entire family. For my husband, who was a first-time father unfamiliar with handling and comforting a newborn, infant massage could have offered him a meaningful, hands-on way to connect and bond with our baby. That experience lit a spark in me to help other families discover this beautiful practice—one that supports not just babies, but also the caregivers who love and nurture them.
Who Is This Class For?
These classes are designed for parents or caregivers of babies aged 2 weeks to 12 months. Because infant massage is rooted in connection and trust, it’s important that the person attending the class is someone the baby knows and feels safe with. Classes are baby-led and flexible—this means crying babies, feeding, diaper changes, walking, or taking breaks are all welcome! Our goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can learn something new each week while responding to your baby’s needs.
I keep class sizes small to ensure a calm and personal experience. In addition to learning massage strokes that can help with common concerns like colic or digestive discomfort, I draw on my background in occupational therapy to share helpful tips about positioning, motion, and overall developmental well-being. Infant massage classes offer a supportive and inclusive environment where all parents can connect with their babies while gaining confidence in nurturing through touch. These classes create a safe space to share experiences, ask questions, and build community with other families in similar stages of parenting. Whether you're looking to bond more deeply with your baby, support their sensory and physical development, or simply find a peaceful space to be together that you can bring home, I invite you to join me.
Parent Testimonials
"Lila is Passionate about supporting families and it shows. She knows the power of infant massage to support babies and parents. As a mom of 4 this was an incredible opportunity to bond with my baby and with other moms in our group."
"Lila was an amazing instructor. Incredibly patient with all the different needs of each baby"
"This was a super relaxed environment with helpful tips for helping my baby with gas and relaxation. It was very important 1-1 time with full focused attention."
"This class strengthened our bond and connection. It was very informative, enjoyable, and great for bonding with my baby, and other moms too"
"Lila does a great job explaining things about baby musculature and reflexes. My last babies, I dreamed about booking them an infant massage. Never did. I am now eternally grateful to be able to do it for my babies myself. Thank you!"
"My baby is calmer and happier after massage, and I'm more confident in using massage techniques to soothe baby. I looked forward to our class each week and having time to do massage at home."
