The Benefits
No need to ask the children at the end of a massage session how they feel…their smiles and sighs will say it all!
The Peer Massage Project® has had wonderful positive feedback from children of all age groups , moreover, research and studies show that :-
- Children learn to differentiate between good and bad touch….they learn Positive Touch
- Children feel relaxed and calmer after a massage (see testimonials)
- Their heart rate drops (actual recorded data from Latchmeres Junior School)
- Breathing is deeper and calmer and thus more efficient
- Self esteem and confidence are boosted
- Friendship and respect are enhanced
- Bullying and aggressive behaviour becomes less frequent
- Children learn how to express their feelings
- Massage encourages audio, visual and kinaesthetic learning
- Massage boosts the immune system by lowering levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that weakens the immunity
- Massage is a mood enhancer: it induces relaxation and wellbeing and raises levels of oxytocin, a hormone which helps to lower negative emotions
- Massage can help to harmonize and nurture the body and mind
- Peer massage works to promote the social and emotional aspects of learning
- No child should feel pressured to give or receive peer massage because each child must always ask the other for their consent to massage
- All children should be included in the workshop sessions as they can learn even from just watching and listening.
What children at Christ Church School year 5 have said about Peer Massage…
“Very relaxing, lifts my soul and calms us”
Max
“It was a fantastic element of relaxation”
Rosie
“I liked the cup bit”
Dean
“Such a lovely sensation! Brilliant! Loved it!”
Saya“I loved the massage”
Henry
“Every school needs a Carole approach to peer massage! She brings a well structured yet simple programme which enhances the emotional health and well being of children and adults alike.”
Pauline Sharratt