Babies comforted through massage

Maya Dutton has that trancelike look in her eyes that only a massage can elicit - utter relaxation.

But Maya is not your typical massage client. She’s wearing pink bloomers and is only 8 months old. And her masseuse is her own mother, Wendy Dutton.

The two are enrolled in an infant massage class at Hela Spa in Georgetown where they’re learning to give and receive massage.

“It’s comforting and restful for both of us. And it allows for focused attention,” says Ms. Dutton, adding that infant massage is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the big city, perfectly illustrated by M Street, the District’s premier retail corridor, just outside the spa window.

Inside, however, warm natural light dances through the window along with New Age music flowing from hidden speakers.

Seated on the floor on a white, fluffy comforter is class instructor Mary Szegda and three mother-infant pairs.

“Breathe deeply and place your hand on your baby’s tummy,” Ms. Szegda says in a calming voice while illustrating on a baby doll.

The real babies are lying on their backs, stripped to their diapers and bloomers.

As Ms. Szegda shows the mothers how to do the “Indian milking stroke” - moms gently but firmly grab and embrace one ankle and move up baby’s leg - it is perfectly quiet, harmonious and peaceful.

“It’s a kind of hug-and-glide stroke,” Ms. Szegda says.

And then one of the little ones - ages range from 8 weeks to 8 months; the class is geared toward pre-mobile babies - starts whimpering. The tenuous silence is broken.

Ms. Szegda reassures and says babies and mothers are welcome to take a cuddle break whenever it’s needed.

“One of the most important things we can do in this class is to listen to the baby’s cues,” Ms. Szegda says.

Infant massage is not about replicating adult massage, she says. It’s true that it’s partly about improving blood circulation and relaxation, which can lead to improved sleep and digestion, but it’s primarily about creating a strong bond between child and parent.

Suzanne Reese, author of “Baby Massage - Soothing Strokes for Healthy Growth,” echoes the sentiment.

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