Sheltering-in-place due to COVID-19 has upset our normal daily habits. Children in particular are susceptible to problems due to a lack of routine and rhythm. Has it been difficult for you to maintain a normal daily pattern for your child, including how much and when your child eats and exercises? If your child is struggling with digestive concerns during shelter-in-place, acupressure and herbal medicine can help!
All of us, and particularly children, need to eat regular balanced meals at consistent times daily. A consistent breakfast, a consistent lunch, perhaps an afternoon snack, and then a consistent dinner works well. Children also need movement throughout the day in order to support the physical movement of their digestive systems.
When the daily rhythm is upset, children can be prone to constipation, bloating, and gas. Disordered eating due to boredom, changed family schedules, and family over-indulgence can also lead to diarrhea and/or weight gain.
Acupressure and herbal medicine can both positively impact the digestive system. Acupressure directly on the abdomen and on the arms and legs supports increased peristalsis (movement of the digestive tract). Additional acupressure points can be used to reduce stress, which in turn will reduce the binding effect that stress has on the digestive system.
Similarly, herbal medicine can be used either to promote movement through the digestive system, to decrease stress and anxiety, to strengthen the digestive function, and to break up the stagnation of food that comes from overeating or indulging in foods that the child cannot tolerate.
When I work with children and their families on digestive concerns, I make sure to get to the root of the problem. For some children there are food sensitivities, for some children there is innate weakness in the digestive system that needs strengthening, and some children just need a slightly better diet and more routine in their eating habits.
If your child needs support with digestive health I am here for you! Call me for a consultation to see if acupressure and herbal medicine are right for your child.
