New parents quickly learn these can be problems for babies. Until they learn to talk, crying, fussing and other cues are the only ways babies can communicate discomfort, so early parenting involves a lot of guess work. Loving touch lessens tension, fussiness and irritability. Digestion is aided and this can provide relief of gas.
Massage is also a way to lesson stress for both parents and baby.
Touch conveys nurturing and love, the essential ingredients for emotional and physical growth and well-being. More intimate interaction with parent and baby helps to foster bonding. These things, in turn, are needed for brain and muscle development. Increases self-esteem of parents by enhancing and reinforcing their parenting skills. Proponents of this form of therapeutic touch say it's also great for bonding between baby and parent.