Reflexology for Children

More than ever, life for children nowadays can feel very pressured – pressure to do well academically, with sports, activities and exams both in and outside of school, in their friendships and also with the ever-increasing invasion of social media and screens from an even younger age. Children are now used to having every moment of their waking day organised or with something to do or think about. This constant physical and mental busyness gives no room to breathe, assimilate and just enjoy (this applies to us grown ups too!).

Reflexology is an ideal treatment for both children and teenagers who are feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed. They generally react very positively to reflexology and find the sessions not only enjoyable, but a calming and relaxing experience which gives them a few moments out from the constant demands on their attention.

With emotional stress and anxiety, physical symptoms can also manifest – digestive problems, allergies and skin conditions, headaches and more, can often be attributed to emotional stress.  Reflexology is a holistic treatment which aims to balance the whole body, and may therefore have a beneficial effect on physical symptoms too. It has also been proven to help lower cortisol and stress levels and improve sleep – vital for children’s development.

Children’s reflexology sessions tend to be shorter, depending on the age of the child – between 15 to 30 minutes, and I also like to give the parents (and children) a few hand/foot reflex points that they can work on between treatments.

Baby reflexology

Working with mothers and babies is such a special and privileged experience. It is a time to bond with your baby and provide caring and nurturing touch to them. Sessions are short, informal and will be led by how your baby is feeling on the day, so no need to worry about crying, nappy changes or feeding as it is very much go with the flow!

If your baby is suffering with any of the following conditions, you may find reflexology beneficial:

• Colic and fretfulness
• Poor sleep routines
• Reflux
• Constipation/mild diarrhoea
• Teething
• Eczema, Psoriasis, Cradle Cap
• Earache
• Coughs and Colds

As sessions are generally quite short (approx 15 minutes depending on age), a lovely way to experience reflexology, especially with younger babies, is a mother and baby reflexology session where you will both receive a treatment. Mum can even hold baby during her session or have baby next to her if asleep. After your session I also give advice on techniques that you can also try with your baby.

You may prefer to have a home visit which may be more relaxing (and convenient) for mum and baby. Home visits are available within a 5 mile radius of Ruislip at an additional cost of £5.