I learned to give them a choice.

I learned that the less I did, the more powerful the result.

I learned to interact with their unconscious mind.

Everything is done for infants in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Food is pumped down their throats, air pushed into their lungs. Medical interventions keep them alive but don't make them particularly happy. When they express displeasure by crying, fussing and scratching, they're given drugs to calm them.

I approach them slowly and peacefully. When they're ready, I settle my hand on their forehead and we have a gentle interaction. They test me. Am I safe? When I pass the test, they relax and begin to let me in.

These babies are so delicate and sensitive I can't do much, but it doesn't take much to have a remarkable effect. They usually welcome containment, rocking, a bit of massage. But sometimes a kind hand on their head is all they need and want. I've had inconsolable babies fall sound asleep with a single touch.

They don't even need to be awake. I've treated babies while they're sleeping and their heart rate goes down. They usually sleep through the session, but when they wake up, they're happier. Everything I learned in the Pediatric ICU has been incorporated into Mind-Body Release to better serve people of all ages.