Growing Well: Mind-Body Practices for Young Minds and Bodies
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tips/things-to-know-about-mind-and-body-practices-for-children-and-teens?nav=govd
Did you know? Nearly one in nine children and teens in the US are already engaging in mind-body practices like yoga and meditation! These techniques, encompassing various approaches to improve health and well-being, are gaining traction as parents and young people seek natural solutions to manage stress, enhance focus, and promote overall well-being.
While research on the specific safety of these practices for children is ongoing, there's encouraging news. Activities like relaxation techniques and deep breathing are perfectly suitable for older children and teens, even to practice independently with a little parental guidance.
Here are seven things to know:
- Biofeedback, guided imagery, mindfulness, and yoga are some of the mind and body practices that have the best evidence of being effective for children and are low-risk.
- Acupuncture appears to be safe for most children, but side effects can occur if it's done by poorly trained practitioners.
- Massage therapy appears to have few risks when done by a trained practitioner. However, massage therapists need to take extra precautions with people who have certain health conditions, such as bleeding disorders.
- Relaxation techniques are generally safe for healthy people, including children. However, there have been rare reports that some relaxation techniques might cause or worsen symptoms in people with epilepsy or certain psychiatric conditions, or with a history of abuse or trauma.
- Spinal manipulation is usually safe for healthy people but is also associated with rare but serious complications.
- Follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's vaccination recommendations to safeguard your child against vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccinating children helps protect our community's and our children's health.
- It's important that you talk with your child's healthcare provider about any complementary health approach that you're using or considering for your child and encourage your teenagers to do the same.
