Many moms today are giving their little ones gentle rubdowns. The reason: Infants who are massaged regularly are less fussy, sleep better, and have stronger immune systems, according to studies done at the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami in Florida.

Massaging your grandbaby may improve your health, too. A study by researchers at the TRI found that adults who gave infants regular massages for a month reported less anxiety, fewer symptoms of depression, and improvements in mood.

Ready to give it a try? Start by coating your hands in baby oil or lotion. Rub your hands together to warm them, then gently stroke your grandbaby's face, chest, and tummy in a smooth, rhythmic motion.

Next, hold one of your grandchild's arms in both your hands. Using a light wringing motion, work your way slowly from the top of baby's arm to the wrist. Repeat with baby's other arm. After this, use the same massaging motion on your grandbaby's legs, starting at the thigh and moving down to the ankle. Take a deep breath and enjoy.