Massage?

So when we brought Aliyah home from Rwanda, she quit sleeping through the night.  And unlike what we expected from someone accustomed to sleeping with 20 other potentially crying babies, she demanded absolute quiet.  We would spend up to an hour and a half putting her to bed.  That with 2 WILD and very NON silent boys running around was next to impossible and very stressful!  She also has a habit of pinching my nose when she's mad.  You know the death grip pinch that makes you tear up immediately.  Going to sleep is not her favorite time of day and was not on my list of favorites either.  Several weeks ago as I sat rocking her in tears (from the nose pinch) I remembered Kyle's need for sensory input would often cause him to unintentionally (at least most of the time) hurt us.  So, I took Aliyah's tiny, but naughty little hand and began to press down.  Immediately her tense body that was fighting sleep with all she had, began to relax.  It was like magic.  I went with it.  I'm no expert in massage, but this stuff works!  


While were in Rwanda, we met several ex-pats who volunteered at the Home of Hope.  One mentioned that they used to do baby massage in the baby room.  The woman told me that unfortunately they were soon told that they were no longer allowed to because the babies were becoming too attached.  I know.  I know.  Frustrating.  But I guess you could argue both ways on this one.


Anyway, I feel sure Aliyah benefited from some of this massage.  Or maybe it's just "her thing".  But I do know for sure, the girl can't get enough TOUCH.  Her little body just craves the replacement of what was missing for so long.  Her skin is chocolatey smooth and pretty irresistible, so that helps.  I just take her little feet and press down and rub.  And then move onto her little hands.  Her eyes will start to roll back, and often just when I think she's almost out, she'll kick her foot up in my face requesting, "more on this foot please".  It's really cute and a sweet bonding time as well!


Anyway, just wondering if that might be something any of you adoptive moms have tried or have seen work.