Abdominal massage is part of Thai yoga massage that sometimes surprises people. “This is the first time I have had something like this”, they say to me. So let’s look at some of the benefits of abdominal massage and why we need to be doing it more!
Improves digestive function
Better digestion is probably the most obvious benefit of abdominal massage. In Thai massage we work on the lower abdomen in a clockwise motion. That follows the natural flow of the intestines and can really help get things moving.
Scientific studies have demonstrated that abdominal massage can stimulate peristalsis, decrease colonic transit time, increase the frequency of bowel movements in constipated patients, and decrease the feelings of discomfort and pain that accompany it.
Increases blood flow and stimulates internal organs
Abdominal massage increases blood flow to our belly. This increase in blood flow and oxygen can help to improve organ function, which in the case of the liver means more efficient breakdown and removal of toxins and waste products.
Boosts our immune system
There is strong link between the health of our gut and our immunity system. Our guts contain about 80% of our immune cells and a large number of lymph nodes. Abdominal massage can help boost gut health by promoting better elimination, improving blood circulation and lymph flow, positively affecting our immune system as well.
Reduces stress and create a sense of well-being
The gut-brain connection is common knowledge nowadays. And most of us have experienced that connection first hand – very often stress and anxiety will show up in our bodies as gastro-intestinal issues. Through massaging the abdomen we can influence our nervous system and shift the body into a parasympathetic state, inducing relaxation and promoting better sleep.
Alleviates menstrual pain
A 2005 study found that abdominal massage was very effective in relieving menstrual pain and cramping. Women who had a five-minute massage daily for six days before menstruation had significantly lower levels of pain and cramping compared to women who had no treatment.
Promotes better posture
Tight abdominal muscles can pull our chest down and contribute to our slumping posture. Relieving tension in the belly helps correct misalignment or holding patterns. As a result tension and pain in the shoulders, back and neck can also be reduced.
Improves breathing
Less tension in the abdomen and improved posture means that there will be more space for the main muscle of respiration – the diaphragm – to move freely. This encourages abdominal breathing which also switches on the “rest and digest” mode of the nervous system. Better breathing also means more oxygen for all our cells, better functioning of our organs and more energy for us.
Keen to have an abdominal massage and receive it’s many benefits – get in touch!
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