The traditional abhyanga technique applied to newborns is very much in accordance with ayurvedic principles. The natural process of childbirth involves great strain and stress on both the mother and the infant. These behaviors aggravate vata dosha all over the body. According to Ayurveda, abhyanga (oil massage) is the best treatment for soothing an aggravated Vata dosha. To ensure their comfort, babies are often given an oil bath before being completely clothed in warm clothing. Vata Dosha in babies needs to be balanced in order for them to grow and develop appropriately.

Benefits of Abhyanga

• Improves bonding:
  Abhyanga is a great way to improve the bond between mother and child. The contact or tactile feeling brings delight and stability to both the mother and the baby.
• Overall wellness:
  The practice of massaging babies was once disregarded by modern doctors as dirty and illogical. However, recent research has shown that massaging an infant has benefits. It is thought that the tactile stimulation caused by massage releases hormones like oxytocin, which by making both mother and child feel happy, enhances the bond between mother and child. The physical movements produced during the massage are seen to help the child's neuromuscular development. Studies have also shown that oil has functions other than lubrication, such as boosting weight gain and supplying nutrients.

Benefits of using Bala Ashwagandhadi oil:

• Improves cognitive development:
  India is home to the massively proliferating bala plant (Sida cordifolia). Litely meaning "strong," it aids in gaining muscle growth and gives off energy. Different extracts made from bala are used to treat urinary and neurological system illnesses, as well as blood and bile disorders. It possesses painkilling, anti-inflammatory, and stress-relieving properties.
• Strengthens the muscles and bones:
  Ashwagandha is regarded as one of Ayurveda's top revitalizing supplements. Its seeds, leaves, and roots are all used to make remedies. Ashwagandha has immune-boosting, anti-tumor, anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It is a component of many prescription formulas used to treat a range of musculoskeletal disorders as well as a general tonic to boost vitality, enhance general health, and lengthen life.
• Improves skin texture:
  It enhances the skin's shine and strengthens the child's immunity.
• Benefits of synergy of Ayurvedic herbs:
  For medicinal purposes, ayurvedic tailas (oils) are applied both internally and externally. Generally speaking, the production of the taila consists of three or four ingredients: one or more dravas (liquid component/s), kalka (herb paste), sneha dravya (oleaginous component), and potentially gandha dravya (perfuming agent). Bala-ashwagandha Taila is one of these oils, and it mostly comprises bala, ashwagandha.

The right way of doing Abhyanga for babies

• Right time for abhyanga:
  It should be performed on an empty stomach, ideally in the morning or evening. The baby can be placed on a clean sheet to massage. Oil should be slightly warmed (indirect heat) before being distributed over the body. It is recommended to wait an hour after the baby has been fed.
• Warm water bath after massage:
  A warm water bath should always be taken after an abhyanga. Make sure the baby can comfortably bathe in the water and that it is not too hot.
• Keep baby warm:
  The baby should be kept warm and well-covered after abhyanga. Never expose a baby to a cold wind.
• No pressure:
  Never put pressure on babies when massaging them.
• Maintain hygiene:
  When massaging infants, the caregiver's hands and nails must be kept clean. Trim your nails to prevent rubbing sensitive skin; avoid getting oil in your eyes; some newborns may be allergic to certain oils; test a drop on your palms to see if you notice any reactions.

Contra – indications for Abhyanga

• When the infant has a cold, cough, fever, or other illness, it should not be done right away after feeding. If there are symptoms of indigestion, such as vomiting or loose stools, it should be avoided.
• For guidance on oil massage in premature and low birth weight newborns, please visit a doctor.