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TCM for children (Shonishin)

Strong roots for little people - without tears

Parents in Winterthur are familiar with the situation: the child has a constant cold ("nursery viruses"), sleeps badly or complains of a stomach ache, but the pediatrician cannot find an organic cause. You want to spare the little ones medication as often as possible.

At Fly-TCM I have a clear message for all parents: Less is more. For children I use the Japanese method Shonishin. This is acupuncture without needles. It is gentle, playful and often even fun for the children. I help the little bodies to help themselves.

What is Shonishin? (Acupuncture without needles)

Shonishin (Sho = small, Ni = child, Shin = needle) was developed in Japan in the 18th century especially for children. Instead of sticking needles into the skin, I use blunt instruments made of silver or stainless steel, which look a bit like small spoons, brushes or chopsticks.

I use these instruments to gently stroke, tap and rub the meridians on the surface of the skin. This creates a rhythmic vibration that regulates the autonomic nervous system. The children usually experience this as a pleasant tickle or massage.

Why children react so quickly

In TCM, the guiding principle is: "Children are easy to treat but difficult to diagnose." Children's qi (energy) is extremely fast and dynamic. They fall ill quickly (e.g. high fever in the evening), but also recover just as quickly.

A few minutes of gentle stimulation is often enough to set an impulse that brings the system back into balance. I don't have to press hard, a gentle "nudge" is enough.

Areas of application: What does Shonishin help with?

I treat from infants to teenagers. Typical topics in my practice are

1. immune system & susceptibility to infections

For children who "take every virus with them". Shonishin strengthens the Wei-Qi (defense energy). Infections often become less frequent and are milder.

2. sleep disorders & restlessness ("cry babies")

If the child cannot settle down in the evening, is "over-excited" or often wakes up at night (night terrors). The treatment has a strong calming effect on the nervous system and promotes deep sleep.

3. digestion (three-month colic)

Tummy ache, flatulence, constipation or reflux in babies. I harmonize the "middle" so that the food is processed better.

4. concentration & development (ADHD)

For schoolchildren who are fidgety, have difficulty concentrating or suffer from test anxiety. I ground the "ascending yang".

Who is it suitable for?

My offer is aimed at:

  • Infants & young children: Shonishin only (no needles).
  • Schoolchildren: Shonishin.
  • Teenagers: Here I can (with consent!) sometimes insert the finest needles, e.g. for sports injuries or menstrual problems. But only if the teenager says "yes".

Atmosphere: No white coat alarm

I don't wear a white coat. The atmosphere at Fly-TCM is relaxed. The child can stay on mom or dad's lap or play on the couch. There is no pressure.

Procedure & costs in Winterthur

A child's session is shorter than for adults, as the child's system cannot tolerate so much stimulation. The treatment itself usually only lasts 10-20 minutes (plus conversation).

The costs are calculated on a time basis (tariff 590) and are covered by the supplementary insurance for complementary medicine (EMR). An important note: Many parents have taken out favorable supplementary tariffs for their children, which often fully cover TCM.

At a glance: TCM for children

  • ⏱ Duration: Short & crisp (approx. 45-60 min. incl. conversation).
  • 🧸 Method: Shonishin (stroking/tapping) - 100% pain-free.
  • 👪 Parents: Are always present and are often guided (homework).
  • 📍 Location: Fly-TCM practice Winterthur.
  • 🎯 Perfect for: Infections, sleep, stomach ache & anxiety.

Gentle help for the little ones.

Make an appointment for your child

Frequently asked questions

No, absolutely not at all. I do not injure the skin. I stroke the skin with a blunt metal instrument or tap it very gently. It feels more like a massage or a “tickle”. Most of the children giggle or visibly relax.

Treatment on the child alone often only takes 5 to 15 minutes. The child’s energy system is so fine and responsive that “more” would be harmful. I use the rest of the time to talk to the parents and give them tips for at home.

Yes, absolutely! The child needs security. With babies and toddlers, the treatment usually takes place directly on mom or dad’s lap or on a play mat on the floor. I do everything in a way that is stress-free for the child.

Shonishin thrives on repetition. In practice, I will show you simple stroking techniques (“home treatment”) that you can use at home when changing diapers or before sleeping. In this way, you become a therapist for your child and strengthen the bond.

Yes, through supplementary insurance for complementary medicine. Many parents are unaware that they often have very good cover for naturopathic treatments for their children. Check your policy (tariff 590).