A unique and beautiful way to bathe newborns has been developed by French nurse, Sonia Rochel. The process is very different from traditional bathing and may look a bit frightening to onlookers at first however, it quickly becomes clear that the replication of the womb is soothing and enjoyable to the infant.
Most infant baths create a shock to the baby’s system and induce crying however Sonia’s method is quite different and provides complete relaxation to the baby. Using a sink instead of a baby bath Sonia continually runs the faucet water creating white noise throughout the process.
Carefully cradling the baby’s weight and supporting the head she eases the baby into the running water, cautiously using her hand to guide the water over the baby’s eyes and away from the nose. She eases the baby into the water submerging the eyes and ears. Sonia turns the baby onto its stomach and uses her free hand to delicately massage the head and down the infant’s spine.
The baby is so calm throughout the process and seems to become completely relaxed. After the bath is complete she removes the baby from the water and places the infant tummy down on a towel. She then provides and gentle massage to the back and legs. Finally the process ends with the infant being wrapped in a towel in complete relaxation and or sleep. With a delicate touch Sonia Rochel shows infant bathing can be a truly magical experience.