There is a wealth of evidence out there pointing towards the benefits of complementary therapy for babies, children and young people. Research conducted by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine identified that massage had very tangible affects:
1. Facilitates weight gain in premature babies
2. Enhances attentiveness
3. Alleviates depressive symptoms
4. Reduces pain
5. Reduces stress hormones
6. Improves immune function
In the UK there are already organisations, centres and projects which are blazing a trail in the 'complementary therapy for Bright Young Things' arena. During my time working in the NHS, it was apparent that infant massage or 'baby massage' was gaining popularity and now, it forms a part of many parent-child development programmes and interventions. The benefits of baby massage are as as apparent for the baby as they are for the parent.
Baby Massage Benefits for Babies:
* Smoothes transition from womb to world
* Develops a feeling of love and security
* Develops body, mind, awareness and coordination
* Can help to reduce the discomfort of colic, wind and constipation
* Helps to regulate and strengthen baby's digestive and respiratory systems and stimulate circulatory and nervous systems
Baby Massage Benefits to Parents:
* Promotes bonding between babies and parents
* Enhances parent's confidence in dealing with baby
* Can help with postnatal depression
There is anecdotal evidence that Reflexology can help to relieve childhood illnesses such as
· Ear ache
· Sore throat
· Sleeplessness
· Hyperactivity
· Constipation
· Asthma
· Eczema
· Coughs & Colds
In 2008, I ran a workshop at the International Forum for Child Welfare when it was in Cardiff and was both in awe and inspired by a project running in Carmarthenshire, which sees complementary therapies used in particular comprehensive schools, focussing around the 'massage in schools' movement. They are already seeing the benefits in terms of pupils' stress levels and improvements in attention and concentration. Wouldn't it be something to see this as part of the curriculum in all schools?! The evidence suggests that the stresses and strains of growing, physically, mentally and emotionally, and the transition between the stages of growth could be eased quite considerably by complementary therapy interventions. If you are a parent, carer, child or young person, the information is at your fingertips and the professionals are within your reach. Seize the opportunity to broaden your horizons and reap the benefits for your children!