Abdominal Massage

What is Abdominal Massage?

Abdominal Massage is a Tui Na (Chinese massage) technique that focuses on the whole abdomen, ranging from just under the rib cage to just above the pubic bone.  The massage technique itself is gentle and deep.  The purposes of Abdominal Massage are to:

  • Unblock emotions that are stuck in the organs
  • Improve digestion (in particular peristalsis of the large intestine)
  • Aid weight loss
  • Improve blood flow to the abdominal organs
  • Release accumulated tension and toxins from the abdominal cavity

Who should recieve this type of treatment?

  • Patients that have any type of digestive upset, i.e., constipation, IBS, diarrhea, bloating, etc.
  • Patients that have issues with infertility, i.e., high FSH levels, frequent miscarriages, blocked tubes, downbearing sensation in the lower abdomen, endometriosis, poor ovarian reserve, thin endometrial lining, etc.
  • Patients that are trying to lose weight.
  • Patients that have experienced intense emotional upset and need to have it released.
  • Patients that would like to learn more about how to help themselves, since the massage is taught as it is performed.

What will the treatment look like?

During the treatment, the patient lays quietly in a calm atmosphere on a massage table, either with their knees bent or with a pillow or bolster under their knees.  The pillow or bolster is to ensure that the abdominal muscles are relaxed which in turn ensures that the practitioner will be able to work easily and the massage will be comfortable for the patient.  The practitioner will begin with light rubbing on the abdomen in a clockwise direction and will slowly work deeper to the organ level.  The patient always has control.  If, at any moment, the massage is too strong, the patient simply says “too much” and the practitioner responds by lightening his or her touch. The massage should last about 30 minutes and can be used in conjunction with distal (on the arms and legs) acupuncture points.

What will I feel like after the treatment?

Patients generally report a great feeling of relief and ease after Abdominal Massage.  Most patients find themselves standing straighter and generally being more comfortable “in their own skin”.  There is a strong sense of relaxation and it is possible that the patient will have to rest for long periods over the following one or two days.  During such time, the patient should drink a lot of water in order to aid the release of toxins from the body.