Foot Reflexology and Its Positive Influence on Our Babies’ and Children’s Development
- Brainz Magazine
- Mar 13
- 4 min read
Written by Laura Mazzucato, Reflexologist
Laura Mazzucato is a reflexologist specialising in women's health, stress & anxiety management. After spending more than 15 years in a high-stress professional career, Laura reached a point of emotional and physical exhaustion, which led her to the path of Holistic therapy.
Foot Reflexology is a gentle and relaxing therapy that naturally helps alleviate physical and emotional tension and blockages. This holistic therapy is based on the theory that the feet act as a mirror to the rest of the body, showing a map of the body’s systems. Therefore, by applying soft pressure to specific areas on the feet, blockages can be safely released, restoring the flow of energy to the whole body.
This holistic therapy is especially effective for babies and children. They are particularly responsive to foot massage because their body’s systems have not yet matured, their immune systems are not fully developed, and their skin and bones are still soft. Therefore, it can provide a range of benefits for young, developing bodies and minds.
In addition, Foot Reflexology is highly appreciated by both children and parents because it promotes bonding. For babies, toddlers, and children, gentle and nurturing physical contact is essential for creating and developing a sense of security, attachment, and communication.
What is the impact on babies?
Newborns are extra-sensitive human beings. They only "feel and perceive"; their first sense, touch, is used to discover the world around them as they develop and slowly adapt to their new external environment. Therefore, newborns often experience discomfort, and crying or being fussy is the only way they know how to express themselves.
Foot Reflexology can help babies relax, alleviate pain, ease general discomfort, and calm them when they cry. Each part of the body (organs, hormonal glands, tissues, etc.) is reflected in specific areas of the feet. When the reflexologist applies gentle pressure and massage techniques adapted to a baby's feet, this stimulates and affects the corresponding body part, producing a nurturing and therapeutic effect.
From the first session, the gentle touch of a Foot Reflexology massage supports the functioning of all of the body’s systems and can help address a variety of conditions.
For the respiratory system and the head area (located on the toes and the upper part of the feet):
As the newborn takes their first breaths, Foot Reflexology helps evacuate fluids remaining from the mother’s womb, promoting better oxygen circulation. It also helps relieve nasal congestion, teething discomfort, and eye and ear complaints, thus improving energy flow for the baby’s development.
For the digestive system (located in the middle area of the foot)
As the baby learns to eat and digest, their digestive system remains sensitive because it is not yet fully developed. Issues such as reflux, colic, and constipation are common. Foot Reflexology facilitates assimilation and elimination in the digestive process.
For emotional well-being
In the womb, the baby was protected. Suddenly, they are confronted with the external world and its various stimuli, such as cold, noise, hunger, and overall discomfort. The baby may have even experienced a traumatic birth, for example, due to forceps use or a long, intense labour. Reflexology works on the nervous and hormonal systems, helping to offset birth-related trauma while promoting relaxation, a sense of well-being, and a feeling of protection.
How does it benefit toddlers and children?
Child development involves physical and emotional growth and changes. This period is significant as the child learns to communicate, think, and socialise. A child’s primary way of learning is through interactions with their parents, but other factors, such as nutrition, the external environment, physical activity, genetics, and community, also play an important role in development. These factors can influence a child’s physical and mental health, sometimes presenting challenges.
The benefits of Foot Reflexology for toddlers and children are numerous. It helps boost the immune system, provides relief from the aches and pains of growing, and promotes rest and relaxation for stressed or hyperactive children or those with sleep disturbances. It can also act as a pain reliever and help improve concentration, self-confidence, self-esteem, and more.
In conjunction with medical advice or treatment, Foot Reflexology supports child development in a non-invasive, gentle, and natural way. It helps maintain overall health while also preventing and easing sickness.
Conclusion
From birth, Foot Reflexology treatment can be introduced to children at any stage. The duration and pressure of treatment depend on the child’s age. It can be performed not only by reflexologists but also by parents who wish to learn techniques to strengthen bonding and communication with their child. Reflexology can be done at any time of day or even incorporated into a bedtime routine. When practised regularly, it can be incredibly beneficial for a child’s development and health; however, it must not be used as a substitute for medical advice.
Foot Reflexology is a complementary massage therapy that your newborn or child might greatly enjoy. In that case, why not continue it during puberty as well?
Laura Mazzucato, Reflexologist
Laura Mazzucato is a reflexologist specialising in women's health, stress & anxiety management. After spending more than 15 years in a high-stress professional career, Laura reached a point of emotional and physical exhaustion, which led her to the path of Holistic therapy. This was instrumental in her decision to change career paths; after attending her first reflexology treatment, she finally realised her true calling. Since then, Laura has been passionate about reflexology and amazed by its power on the body. She regularly attends training and workshops in order to enhance her skills and knowledge, and to maximise the benefits of treatments for her clients’ health. Her motto: Make Your Health Your Priority!
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