In China, where Tui Na for children was established as a specialty as early as 500 B.C., child massage is available in all hospitals of traditional Chinese medicine, where it is used for the treatment of common childhood ailments. Now increasing awareness of Tui Na's benefits is reaching the West.

Maria Mercati studied in Shanghai under the two leading Chinese experts of Tui Na massage for children and teaches the technique in her clinics in London. Tui Na Massage for a Healthier, Brighter Child combines explicit instructions and full-color photography to demonstrate treatment routines for ailments such as colds, coughs, night crying, restlessness, colic, and teething; Tui Na has also been shown to help build a child's immune system, greatly improve blood circulation, reduce the symptoms of asthma, and help prevent chest and ear infections. And most important, Tui Na's techniques enable parents to deepen the loving bond between them and their child and fulfill their need for touch and affection.

MARIA MERCATI is a practicing Oriental Massotherapist and Acupuncturist and Britain's leading authority on Oriental massage. She is the originator of Bodyharmonics, which blends Oriental therapies (Chinese, Thai, and Indonesian massage) with perceptive listening in a unique fusion to promote physical, mental and spiritual health and well-being. She is the author of the highly successful Handbook of Chinese Massage (Healing Arts Press) and Thai Massage Manual (Sterling).