Shantala Massage
The Shantala massage for babies offers emotional benefits that are reflected in physiological effects such as cognitive and psychomotor stimulation, improved sleep, and relief from colic. TOPSPA's Indian Shantala massage promotes a deep connection between the caregiver and the child, strengthening the bonds of affection that unite them through sensory interaction.
Shantala is an ancient technique that uses massage as an act of love, but also as a form of healing, rebalancing energy through touch. This ritual gives the baby the sense of protection they felt in their mother's womb, helping to overcome the initial insecurities after birth and grow into a more confident adult.
Come learn with us how to perform the Shantala massage on your baby!
Discover the benefits of the Shantala Massage
Relational benefits
It promotes a sense of security and boosts the baby's self-confidence levels for a happy and healthy growth.
Organic Benefits
It enhances the immune system and aids the digestive process, reducing reflux and colic.
Relaxation benefits
It has calming effects on the body and mind, improving emotional state during the day and promoting better sleep.
Stimulant Benefits
It contributes to the stimulation of the senses, motor reflexes, and awareness of the body and the surrounding world.
Cognitive Benefits
It acts on the central nervous system through hormonal and sensory stimuli, contributing to cognitive development.
What to expect from our Shantala Massage
TOPSPA's Shantala massage is a true learning session for mothers, fathers, or daily caregivers of the baby.
During this session, all information about the techniques, precautions during the massage, the best time of day to perform it, and the types of oils that can be used is provided. Once they gain autonomy, caregivers can massage their babies whenever they wish.
The therapist will demonstrate the movements and touches using a doll while the caregiver applies these techniques to their baby, always under the guidance of the professional.
During the Shantala massage, the baby remains undressed to fully benefit from the touch. The room is heated, making the experience very pleasant.
At the beginning or end of the session, you can enjoy the spa facilities to enrich the experience and deepen the emotional bond.
Signs that your baby needs a Shantala Massage
The Shantala massage is especially beneficial when your baby shows any of these signs:
Sleep disturbances, irritability during the day.
Teething pain, intestinal colic, and constipation.
Respiratory problems, nasal congestion, and difficulty in clearing secretions.
The regular practice of Shantala will also help caregivers who exhibit the following signs:
- Difficulties with breastfeeding;
- Exhaustion due to lack of sleep;
- Anxiety and insecurity regarding baby care.
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Everything you need to know about Shantala Massage
Who is the Shantala massage suitable for?
Our Shantala massage is suitable for all babies from three months of age until they feel comfortable with this routine.
It is advisable to start as early as possible to ensure an easy adaptation for the baby.
These sessions are recommended for:
- All mothers or fathers who want to deepen their emotional bonds;
- First-time parents to help them gain confidence in interacting with their children;
- Babies who struggle with parental absence when starting daycare;
- Regulating nap times and bedtime at night;
- Babies who suffer from intestinal colic;
- Babies with viral infections, helping to clear respiratory pathways;
- All babies who have difficulty falling asleep on their own.
What is the origin of the Shantala massage?
The Shantala massage originated in India and was named by French physician Frédérick Leboyer in honor of an Indian woman named Shantala.
Shantala was a visually impaired mother who was seen massaging her baby on the streets of Calcutta to calm him. This scene was observed by the French physician, who was passing by and was captivated by the effects of her massage movements.
Finding the practice fascinating and beneficial, he shared it with the world, naming it after that mother, Shantala.
Can the baby be accompanied by a family member during the Shantala massage?
Yes, the baby can be accompanied by a family member during the Shantala massage, but it is recommended that it be the mother or father, as the main focus is to deepen the existing emotional bond and build trust.
Does the Shantala massage help the baby sleep through the night?
Incorporating Shantala massage into a daily routine can help regulate the baby's sleep and extend nighttime rest.
Shantala massage works on the baby's emotional system, helping them relax while also making them feel safe and calm, promoting a peaceful sleep.
What is the best time of day to give the baby a Shantala massage?
The best time of day to give a baby a Shantala massage will depend on each family's daily routine. During the session, this question will be addressed based on your and your baby's needs.
In general, the time before the bath is ideal for giving the baby a Shantala massage, as it promotes relaxation and helps ensure a more restful night's sleep.
If the massage is done after breastfeeding, it is recommended to wait a while to avoid reflux.
Can all babies receive the Shantala massage?
All babies can benefit from the Shantala massage. However, before giving the massage, it is advisable to consult the baby's doctor to confirm if there are any specific limitations in your particular case.
Can I give my baby the Shantala massage at home?
Yes, the Shantala massage can be done at home by parents. In fact, this is one of the goals of TOPSPA's Shantala massage: to teach parents the techniques so they can replicate the massage for their babies, becoming increasingly independent.
Can I practice the Shantala techniques on my baby every day?
Yes, the Shantala techniques can be practiced on your baby every day. Continuing with the sessions will help these little ones grow into emotionally balanced adults, as the massage acts sensorially on their body awareness, enhancing their confidence and self-esteem.
These effects will also positively influence their relationships with others and their perception of the world.
Where are TOPSPA's Shantala massages available?
At the Asian-inspired Mandalay Spas, you can experience the Shantala massage in Lisbon, Porto, or Óbidos:
- Mandalay Spa Liberdade, at PortoBay Hotel in Lisbon;
- Mandalay Spa Flores, at PortoBay Flores Hotel in Porto;
- Mandalay Spa Royal Óbidos, at the Evolutee Hotel, Royal Óbidos Resort.