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When most people think of acupuncture, they imagine thin needles and adults seeking relief from pain or stress. But did you know that acupuncture can also be a safe and effective option for infants and babies, including acupressure for babies?
Infant acupupressure is a gentle and non-invasive approach that supports the health and development of babies from as young as a few weeks old. Practitioners trained in paediatric acupupressure use specialised techniques, including a needle-free method known as Shonishin and Tui Na (massage), to help balance a child’s energy and promote natural healing.
What Is Infant Acupressure?
Acupressure for babies is tailored to the unique needs of infants. It is not simply a smaller version of adult acupuncture—it’s a specialised practice based on years of clinical experience and traditional wisdom. The treatment is incredibly gentle and often very quick. In most cases, babies are relaxed and even smile during their session.
What Is Shonishin?
Shonishin is a Japanese style of pediatric acupuncture that involves non-needle techniques to stimulate acupuncture points and meridians using soft brushing, tapping, and stroking tools or the practitioner’s hands. This makes it ideal for newborns, infants, and toddlers who may be too young or sensitive for traditional acupuncture needles.
Shonishin is soothing and calming, helping to restore balance in a baby’s developing system without causing pain or discomfort.
What Is Paediatric Tui Na?
Tui Na is commonly known by many names, including TCM Massage, Oriental Massage, Chinese Massage, Acupressure, or even Shiatsu. It is a therapeutic bodywork technique rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is suitable for all ages—from newborns to the elderly.
Paediatric Tui Na is a gentle and nurturing treatment where the practitioner uses their hands to softly stimulate specific areas and channels on the baby’s body. This hands-on therapy helps regulate and support the baby’s digestive, respiratory, immune, and nervous systems. The approach is based on yin-yang conepts, aiming to harmonise and rebalance the baby’s developing energy systems.
Parents are often shown simple techniques to use at home, making Paediatric Tui Na a beautiful way to strengthen the parent-child bond while supporting the child’s health and resilience.
What Conditions Can Paediatric Acupressure Help?
Parents often seek out paediatric acupressure to support a range of common infant health concerns, including:
- Colic and excessive crying
- Reflux and digestive discomfort
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Frequent colds or ear infections
- Sleep disturbances
- Teething discomfort
- Eczema and skin conditions
- Immune support and overall wellbeing
By addressing imbalances early, acupuncture can help support the immune and nervous systems, encouraging healthy development in both body and mind.
Is Acupressure Suitable for Babies?
Yes—when performed by a trained and experienced practitioner, acupressure for babies is very gentle. The treatments are carefully adapted to the infant’s size, temperament, and condition. Most babies find the sessions relaxing and respond quickly to treatment.
What to Expect During a Session?
During a paediatric acupuncture session, your practitioner will:
- Take time to understand your child’s overall health, development, and concerns
- Use very gentle, hands-on techniques (with no needles at all)
- Demonstrate Shonishin and Tui Na methods and involve parents in the process
- Provide practical guidance on home care, diet, and supporting your baby’s constitution
Sessions are typically short, and many babies enjoy the calming, rhythmic motions used during Shonishin and Tui Na.
A Holistic, Gentle Approach to Infant Health
As parents, we all want what’s best for our children. Infant acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free way to support your baby’s health in the early stages of life. Whether your baby is struggling with digestion, sleep, or general unsettledness, paediatric acupuncture may provide the gentle support they need to thrive.
Interested in learning more or booking a session?
Get in touch to find out how acupressure for babies can support your little one’s wellbeing.
