Most people have heard of reflexology but not everyone knows what it is and the benefits it can bring. Reflexology is a relaxing foot massage that works by stimulating the nerve endings in the feet, which correspond to organs and zones of the body. In this way reflexology treats the entire body and tones the system. Reflexology for babies complements baby massage but is very different. Rather than setting time aside at home for a massage session, baby reflexology can be done any time anywhere; in the car, on a picnic, or waiting outside the school gates, as it only involves removing a bootee and can be done in minutes while Mum or Dad hold baby.
If you have ever been standing in the supermarket queue with a screaming toddler or have had sleepless nights when your little one just will not settle, then this is the answer! Reflexology is suitable for babies from birth to 2 years old.
Until the age of 3 years, children's feet generally are oval in form since the arches are not developed. Small feet are easy to treat. In order to carry out reflexology on your baby, cover the whole foot with tiny forward movements of the thumb; work up from the base of baby's heel to the point where the toes join the foot. Start with the right foot and massage this way across the foot to the outside edge, repeat on the left foot in the same manner; make sure you cover all the energy zones and on most of baby's body systems.
Certain common ailments of newborns respond well to more concentrated work on one or more areas. You can use reflexology as a natural healing therapy for acute illnesses as well as a preventative maintenance tool for good health, but as with anything if you are concerned about your child you should consult a doctor or other qualified health professional. A traumatic birth for baby could come from undergoing induced labour procedures, breeched positioned babies, being born by forceps delivery, or long intense labour.
Help to offset the trauma to baby by massaging their feet for a minute or so each time. Concentrate on the spine, head and neck areas as described next. Support the top of baby's foot with your right hand, with left thumb; apply pressure to the general area beneath and over the toes.
