Reflexology for kids,
by Oonagh. 👋
An alternative therapy to gently, yet powerfully, promote physical, emotional, and mental calm and relaxation in children and young adults - delivering excellent results in children with ADHD, autism and other behavioural conditions.
Practising in Cascais, PT and London, UK
reflexology
"Reflexology as a complementary therapy for children with behavioural challenges such as ADHD, Autism, and other related conditions."
Clinical experience and in-depth studies demonstrate that Reflexology holds great promise as a complementary therapy for children facing neurodevelopmental and behavioural challenges such as ADHD, autism, and other related conditions. While not a substitute for conventional medical interventions, reflexology can play a supportive role in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being in these children. Here's how:
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder):
Reflexology techniques aimed at stimulating specific points corresponding to the brain, nervous system, and endocrine glands can help regulate neurotransmitter levels.
By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, reflexology may assist in calming hyperactive behaviour and improving attention span.
Regular reflexology sessions have been reported to enhance sleep quality, which is often disrupted in children with ADHD, leading to improved focus and mood stability.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):
Children with autism often experience sensory sensitivities and challenges with emotional regulation. Reflexology's gentle touch can provide a calming sensory experience, helping to reduce anxiety and sensory overload.
Targeting reflex points associated with the digestive system may offer relief from gastrointestinal issues commonly seen in children with autism, such as constipation or irritable bowel syndrome.
Reflexology sessions can create a safe and nurturing environment for children with autism, fostering trust and improving their ability to connect with others.
For other Childhood Behavioral Challenges
Reflexology's ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress can benefit children with various behavioural conditions, including anxiety disorders, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorders.
By supporting the body's natural healing processes, reflexology often helps alleviate physical symptoms often associated with behavioural conditions, such as headaches, muscle tension, sleep problems and digestive issues.
The holistic nature of reflexology acknowledges the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit, offering a comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted needs of children with behavioural challenges.
Incorporating reflexology into a comprehensive treatment plan, alongside other therapies and interventions, can provide children with ADHD, autism, and other behavioural conditions with additional tools for managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life. However, it's essential to consult with qualified healthcare professionals before beginning any new therapeutic regimen to ensure safety and efficacy for each child's unique needs.
Can reflexology help my child?
In an age where children are exposed to a myriad of stressors, ranging from academic pressures to digital overstimulation, finding holistic methods to support their well-being has become increasingly essential.
Reflexology, a therapeutic practice rooted in ancient healing traditions, offers a gentle yet powerful avenue for promoting physical, emotional, and mental balance in children and young adults, and is successfully used as an alternative therapy to compliment more traditional treatments and modern medicine.
By gently targeting specific points on the feet, hands, and ears believed to correspond to various organs, glands, and systems within the body, reflexology harnesses the body's innate healing mechanisms. This non-invasive technique has gained recognition for its ability to relax, induce calm, alleviate discomfort, reduce anxiety, enhance relaxation, and support overall health.
Read on to learn more about how reflexology can benefit children, providing a holistic approach to nurturing their growth and development.
ADHD, Autism and other behavioural CHALLENGES
promoting calm, relaxation & restoration for the tiny mind.
Reflexology's magical ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress can bring great calm and restoration to all of our little ones. Often children come home from school wired and stressed and often turn to devices to unwind. A reflexology session is a fantastic gift to a child to enable calm after a long day of learning at school.
the PRACTITIONER
About Oonagh
Oonagh is a certified practitioner in Reflexology, graduating in 2002 with a Diploma from the IIR (UK). During her 20-year practice, she has worked extensively with adults and children but now focuses working with children and young adults, especially those with ADHD, autism, and other behaviour-related conditions.
Oonagh is married, with 3 children, and working between London, UK and Cascais, Portugal.
Certificates
IIR (International Institute Of Reflexology)
Oonagh received her Diploma from the International Institute of Reflexology - the world's leading authority on Reflexology, licensed globally to teach the Original Ingham Method® of Reflexology.
Key Course Content
Reflexology Theory and Practice
Anatomy, Physiology and Common Pathologies
Nutrition and Well-Being
Complimentary Therapy Practice Knowledge
General Adult Health
Babies and Children
Fertility
Maternity
Cancer and Palliative Care
Reflexology
Diploma in Reflexology • IIR (UK) • 2002
Holistic Body Massage
Diploma in Holistic Massage • Bristol Holistic Health Education Centre (UK) • 2004
TRAINING BACKGROUND
Indian Head Massage
Diploma in Indian Head Massage • (Bristol Holistic Health Education Centre) • 2006