List of the Benefits of Children's Massage

The human nature of touch can be underestimated.

Touch is the first human sense to develop, and it continues to be an important tool in a child's growth and development. Massage is a form of touch that has been used for centuries to convey a sense of trust and security to children. According to The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, "It is said that a touch can convey more than a thousand words, and children are known to thrive with the right amount of physical contact." Children's message provides you a way to promote the health and wellness of your children.

Trust and Security

The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkley in 2010 reported studies that basic warm touches signal safety and trust. It activates the vagus nerve, which reduces cardiovascular stress and also affects the body's "compassionate response." Parents can convey a sense of security and trust through massage.

Reduction of Stress and Anxiety

It is common for children of all ages to experience stress and anxiety. Massage creates a state of relaxation that can help alleviate stress and anxiety. A study by the University of Miami showed massage reduced anxiety and depression in child psychiatric patients. Levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, were lower after receiving 30-minute back massages over a five-day period.

Improves Mood and Behavior

Medications to treat mood and behavior disorders, such as ADHD, can put a strain on any family. Massage therapy offers an alternative solution to pharmaceutical treatments. A study by the journal "Adolescence" quoted by Questia reported adolescents with ADHD as being happier, less fidgety and more on task after a series of massage treatments.

Improve Communication

Massage is a form of touch communication. A report from the University of California, Berkley reported people were better able to sense emotions such as love, gratitude and compassion through touch rather than verbal or facial communication. Receiving positive touch by parents or in therapeutic settings conveys and teaches touch communication and can be used to reach the most difficult children.

References

• TS-SI: Tacticle Sensations Influence Social Judgements and Decisions
• PubMed: Massage Reduces Anxiety in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Patients
• CranePsych2: Massage Therapy Improves Mood and Behavior of Students With ADHD
• Greater Good Berkley: Hands On Research The Science of Touch
• Pacific College: Massage Therapy and Its Benefits for Children
• Massage Therapy: Children and Massage