Massage therapy and sensory therapy

Here is a safe, effective and child-friendly massage therapy routine specially designed for hyperactive children -ADHD -sensory seekers. These techniques help reduce restlessness, improve body awareness, calmness, and promote sleep. ⸻ ⭐ Massage Therapy for Hyperactive Child (Occupational therapy–based calming protocol) ⸻ 1️⃣ Deep Pressure Massage (Most Effective) ✔ Helps calm the nervous system ✔ Reduces hyperactivity ✔ Increases body awareness How to do it: • Use both hands to give firm, slow pressure. • Start from shoulders → arms → hands → back → legs → feet. • Press like giving a “gentle hug” — firm but not painful. • Move slowly, not fast. Duration: 5–7 minutes ⸻ 2️⃣ Joint Compression (OT technique) ✔ Excellent for reducing hyperactivity ✔ Provides proprioceptive (heavy work) input How to do: • Hold child’s wrist gently and push their elbow inward (toward shoulder) 10 times. • Do the same for shoulders, knees, ankles. • Push gently but firmly. Never jerk. Duration: 1–2 minutes ⸻ 3️⃣ Slow Rhythmic Stroking ✔ Best for bedtime calming ✔ Reduces anxiety and restlessness How to do: • Use your palm and slowly stroke from back of head → neck → shoulders → back. • Pressure should be slow, rhythmic, continuous. Duration: 3–5 minutes ⸻ 4️⃣ Coconut Oil -Sesame Oil Massage ✔ Natural calming effect ✔ Warm oil works best for relaxation How to do: • Warm the oil slightly (not hot). • Massage legs, arms, palms, feet using circular motions. • Combine with slow breathing. Duration: 10 minutes before bath or sleep ⸻ 5️⃣ Hand & Finger Massage ✔ Reduces fidgeting ✔ Improves attention How to do: • Rub each finger slowly • Massage the palm in circles • Apply firm pressure in centre of palm Duration: 2 minutes ⸻ 6️⃣ Foot Massage (Highly calming) ✔ Best for hyperactivity at night ✔ Helps sleep How to do: • Press the heel area (deep pressure) • Massage toes one by one • Stroke bottom of foot slowly Duration: 3–5 minutes ⸻ 7️⃣ Scalp Massage ✔ Reduces emotional overload ✔ Calms nervous system How to do: • Use fingertips and give circular slow pressure • Avoid fast rubbing—keep movements slow Duration: 2–3 minutes ⸻ ⭐ Total Routine (15–20 minutes): 1. Deep pressure massage 2. Joint compressions 3. Slow strokes 4. Foot or hand massage 5. Warm oil (optional) ⸻ ⭐ Best Time for Massage • Before sleep • After school • During meltdown or restlessness • After heavy activity ⸻ ⭐ Important Safety Tips • Avoid ticklish strokes (they increase hyperactivity) • Do slow, not fast movements • Pressure should be firm and calming • Stop if the child is uncomfortable • Avoid spine pressing—