Reflexology For Babies And Toddlers
When it comes to seeking health and well-being for children, natural techniques to alleviate discomfort always draw attention. This is because this type of technique has no contraindications or side effects. Among them, reflexology for babies and children stands out. But what is it about?
Reflexology is a very old method used as a natural healing technique. It is based on pressure at different points in the body, relieving pain and providing health and relaxation benefits.
This practice is not only used on adults. In fact, little ones can also benefit from this massage to alleviate numerous discomforts. Furthermore, reflexology is a means of increasing physical contact with parents and strengthening the emotional bond between them.
The best known reflexology therapy for infants and children is foot reflexology. This practice is used because the feet contain a large number of nerve endings that maintain connections with the rest of the body through the central nervous system.
This technique consists of massaging through pressure and finger movements on the sole of the foot. Its benefits will be reflected in the organs corresponding to each nerve ending.
Areas worked on reflexology for babies and children
A child’s foot is very different from an adult’s foot. As it grows, more reflection points will appear. Thus, the areas where massages are performed are much smaller.
Smaller babies’ feet can be separated into six areas to perform therapy. Pressure and massage are applied in a circular fashion to a particular area, depending on the child’s discomfort.
The central part of the fingers corresponds to the paranasal sinuses. Paying attention to this area is ideal for alleviating cases of sinusitis in the baby. In turn, the tip is connected to the head and teeth, which offers a solution in cases of pain during the teething phase.
A massage on the part of the foot that is under the toes will help to improve discomfort related to the chest area. Meanwhile, the point in the middle is connected to the solar plexus.
For abdominal discomfort, it is necessary to lightly rub the middle of the foot. The middle part is connected to the stomach and the lower half to the lower part of the belly. In this way, it is possible to treat constipation, acidity or indigestion.
Benefits of reflexology
Reflexology for babies and toddlers offers multiple benefits. It is a technique that differs by far from a traditional massage. It is based on pressure from certain points on the feet, hands or face that are connected to other parts and organs of the body in order to relieve pain.
This practice can help improve the immune, respiratory, and digestive systems by stimulating the corresponding point. In the same way, we can also eliminate the stress and tension caused by an illness.
A frequency of at least three sessions a week is recommended, even when the baby is not experiencing discomfort. Reflexology for babies and toddlers will help to strengthen defenses and prevent future illness.
The practice of reflexology
For reflexology to be performed, it is recommended that the place be comfortable, without much noise and with good lighting. That is, we must create the most pleasant environment possible. We can even put on some relaxing music in the background.
Start with your toes, with gentle circular motions. The objective is to work all the regions and then go down until you finish at the heel.
If the baby experiences any discomfort, pay more attention to the specific area by making slow, gentle movements. Then, to finish, you should press the solar plexus point, which is located in the center, just below the forefoot. The duration of these massages must be a maximum of 15 minutes.
Just a few minutes of reflexology a day gives your baby many physical and mental benefits. The advantages of this practice are even more notable when children are young, as they are more receptive to these stimuli.
Without a doubt, reflexology is a great option to improve the quality of life for adults and children. Try it!
