The Benefits of Reflexology for Babies

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Reflexology is a form of treatment started by the ancient Chinese in centuries past.  It was found that by stimulating specific reflexes of the feet and hands, you could not only bring healing to the body, but could cleanse the body of common toxic substances and even parasites.  Reflexology was brought to the West in the early 1900’s and has been proven to be a very successful therapy for most sicknesses and diseases.

So why is this technique so beneficial on babies and children?  The biggest reason that reflexology is so beneficial to children is that they do not have years of toxic buildup in their systems.  Furthermore, they have not yet been “programmed” to societies way of handling sickness.  When the mind is more receptive and does not contain the boundaries that many adults have, it is understood that the body works more effectively and efficiently.  Moreover, practicing reflexology on your baby is a great way to bond, stimulate and provide the tender touch that actually promotes health.

If you are curious as to what types of problems reflexology can alleviate in babies and children, here is a list I have compiled.  Keep in mind that it is just a sample list and in no way represents everything that reflexology can benefit.

• Ear infections
• Teething pain
• Asthma
• Colic
• Allergies
• Constipation & tummy problems
• Childhood eczema
• Colds and flu symptoms
• Sports related injuries
• Respiratory infections
• Depression and other emotional problems
• Hyperactivity & auditory problems
• Learning and concentration challenges
• Acne and psoriasis
• And many more

You may be asking how to do it safely and effectively.  First of all, I would recommend that you seek the advice and expertise of a trained reflexologist.  If you simply want to try the techniques for yourself without formal training, keep in mind that when applying pressure to an infant’s foot, it should be done with a gentle forward creeping motion.

If you want basic instructions on where to start, check out the information at universalreflex.com.  The following instructions are directly from their website.

• Start on the sole of the right foot start at zone 5 and work heel to toe, then move over to zone 4 and work heel to toe, then zone 3, 2 and finally zone 1.  Remember to work the inner aspect of the foot, which relates to the spinal reflexes. Stay on the same foot and follow exactly the same procedure – gentle pressure working from heel to toe, again starting at zone 5 and moving across to zone 1.  Finish off by gentle stroking of the entire foot. Move over to the left foot and carry out the same routine.

Because baby’s feet are so small, the procedure can be carried out once or several times and the entire session can be as short as a couple of minutes to just over five minutes. The golden rule is little, lightly and often! Better to give many two-minute sessions than one long one – or none at all!