Reflexology for Kids & Teens

Although most of us believe that children and teens are pretty invincible to pain and injury, there are some benefits to introducing your kids to certain treatments that can help their overall health, such as reflexology. If you’re thinking about getting your child or teen involved in this process, there are some helpful things to know in order to make sure you understand what to expect and how to prepare.



So what is reflexology and how can it benefit your child or teenager? Reflexology is the act of applying pressure to the hands and feet using certain techniques of the thumb and fingers without massage oil or lotion. This practice is ideal for releasing tension, eliminating any strain or feelings of discomfort, and is also very soothing. While most kids and teens don’t have much to stress about, you’d be surprised by how well they not only adapt to reflexology, but how much they could end up enjoying it.



Reflexology isn’t just for adults. Many parents introduce this concept to their kids and teens as a way to promote relaxation and certain medical benefits. Kids tend to do well with short treatments within the 15-20 minute range. Teens can usually enjoy longer periods of reflexology. Some parents turn to reflexology in order to get their child to open up and become more active. Many reflexology therapists treat younger patients and report changes in their overall behavior and communication skills. Often quieter children that are normally withdrawn, tend to come out of reflexology more energized and talkative. For teens, this can be a way for them to release emotional tension and allow them to talk about any issues with their reflexology therapist.



However, the concept of reflexology does more than just treat the emotional issues most kids and teens face, it also handles the physical aspect as well. During these stages, kids and teenagers experience a lot of different changes in their bodies. Reflexology can help with any physical ailments or symptoms causing distress or discomfort. Professional reflexologists know to avoid treatment around the areas of the endocrine system in teenagers, since these parts of the body can react negatively to the presence of applied pressure. The most common area of treatment for kids and teens include the neck area, since most children in this age range often get aches and pains from sitting in front of the television or computer for hours on end.



If you feel your child or teenager could benefit from reflexology treatments, you should start looking for a licensed and highly qualified reflexology therapist. Make sure to find someone who has plenty of experience in treating younger patients and teens. Don’t just go with the first person you find. Pick a small handful and make sure that the person you ultimately hire for the job is someone that your child feels comfortable with.

Quoted from: http://www.carefair.com/Body/Reflexology_for_Kids_and_Teens_6191.html