Relaxation and enhancement of neurological development

Massage provides both stimulation and relaxation for an infant, both being components of optimum learning conditions.

During massage an infant may experience both stress and relaxation. Increased circulation, the air on their skin, the stimulation of stroking, are all potentially stressful to a newborn, yet these are balanced with the reassurance that the parent's voice, odour and touch provide. This kind of balance is essential for the learning process.

Stress causes the pituitary gland to produce ACTH (Adrenocorticotrophic hormone). Experiments where ACTH is given show growth of millions of new connecting links between the neurons. This is what enables the brain to process information and, applied to infants, this process aids in converting new and stressful situations into something that is recognised as predictable.

If not balanced with relaxation an overload of stress can result in the decrease of sensory intake, something that is essential if infants are to reach their full potential.