Articles
Reflexology for colic
Tracey Collinson - Certified Reflexologist, Reiki Practitioner, B.A., CR, RP-CRA
Touch is the first sense to develop in the womb and as a result babies thrive if they are touched with love and care. Since babies have such tiny feet, providing them comfort with reflexology is really quite simple. Basically, if you work the entire surface of the baby's foot from the heel up to the tops of the toes, using forward creeping movements with your fingers or thumb, you are providing your little one with a mini-reflexology treatment. Reflexology can help babies with: colic, constipation, wind, coughs & colds, teething, sleeplessness & fussiness and simply rest & relaxation. If your baby is suffering from colic, reflexology can help their digestive system easing episodes of gas and pain.
During an episode of colic, try holding your baby's right foot with your left hand and use your right thumb to gently "walk up and down" the entire heel area 2-3 times. Then move up to the middle of the foot and apply gentle pressure from the outside to the inside edge 2-3 times. Repeat both steps on the left foot. By doing this, you are working your baby's digestive system and you will most likely hear some rumbling from his or her little tummy. This is an indication that there is increased muscular activity in the stomach and bowels and this should help reduce the pain of colic. Reflexology can be used anywhere at anytime, especially before a nap or bedtime. You'll be surprised just how relaxed your baby will be. Your baby will love receiving your attention and you will feel less stressed and calm knowing you have a tool to relax and comfort your baby right at your fingertips.