Abdominal Massage: A Dietitian & Massage Therapist Explain
Have you explored our affiliates page? Serena Benali is a certified affiliate of the Strive Holistic Massage company; not only because of her incredible expertise, but her compassionate, comforting and friendly demeanor. After receiving a session from her personally, I wanted to feature her collaborative thoughts on the benefits of abdominal massage.
Medically reviewed by Serena Benali, Registered Dietitian and In Good Nutrition owner, & Miranda Horvath, Registered Massage Therapist, and Strive Holistic Massage owner.
Curious about how abdominal massage can benefit your health? Today we’re delving into the benefits of abdominal massage and its connection to nutrition and health. As experienced registered massage therapist we are always looking at how we can holistically support our clients, that’s why we’ve teamed up with Serena Benali, a registered dietitian from In Good Nutrition to unravel the significant role that abdominal health plays in maintaining nutritional health, digestion and overall well-being.
Don't miss exploring the extensive range of nutrition services offered by In Good Nutrition. In addition, they also offer an array of free resources and a meal plan at your disposal.
What is Abdominal Massage?
Abdominal massage is a therapeutic technique that involves gentle manipulation and stimulation of the abdominal area. It has been practiced for centuries in various cultures as a means of promoting physical and emotional well-being, from traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda in India to ancient Egyptian healing traditions.
This specialized form of massage focuses on the muscles, organs, and tissues of the abdomen, aiming to improve circulation, enhance digestion, and relieve tension. The hands-on pressure and rhythmic movements applied during abdominal massage can help release tension, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the body. With its holistic approach, abdominal massage offers a unique opportunity to nurture and support the health of the abdominal region, fostering a sense of well-being and vitality.
The Benefits Of Abdominal Massage
Here we explore the health benefits of abdominal massage to gain valuable insights into how this therapeutic technique can impact our health and well-being.
Enhanced Digestive Function
A belly massage can offer significant benefits in improving digestive function. By gently manipulating and stimulating the internal organs, this therapeutic technique promotes optimal digestion, alleviates bodily tension, and supports a healthier gastrointestinal system.
Relieve Constipation:
One of the notable benefits of abdominal massage is its aid in constipation relief. The gentle movements and pressure applied during the massage can help stimulate the digestive system, promoting bowel movements and easing constipation. By improving the flow of stool and supporting proper bowel function, abdominal massage can provide natural relief from constipation and contribute to a healthier, more comfortable digestive system.
Incorporating abdominal massage into your routine can be a beneficial approach to addressing constipation and promoting regularity. Watch this video on Abdominal Massage For Constipation, to learn step-by-step guidance and techniques.
If you’re struggling with constipation, download In Good Nutrition’s free meal plan with some high fibre meals!
Relieve Bloating and Gas
Abdominal massage can alleviate common digestive discomforts such as bloating and gas. The gentle pressure applied during the massage helps to stimulate the movement of the digestive tract, promoting better digestion and reducing the build-up of gas. By addressing these digestive issues, abdominal massage can bring relief and restore a sense of comfort in the abdominal region.
Alleviating Symptoms of Digestive Disorders
Abdominal massage has shown to be particularly beneficial for individuals with IBS. The gentle pressure and rhythmic strokes used during the massage can help stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract, facilitating movement and reducing symptoms of constipation or diarrhea. This also helps reduce bloating, a common symptom experienced by those with digestive disorders.
Additionally, abdominal massage has been found to help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Stress is known to exacerbate symptoms of IBS and other GI diseases, and the calming effects of massage can help individuals better manage their condition by reducing stress levels.
Improved Blood Flow and Lymphatic Circulation
Abdominal massage serves as a powerful tool in stimulating blood flow and lymphatic circulation throughout the body. Through the application of gentle pressure and rhythmic movements, this therapeutic technique encourages the smooth movement of blood within the abdominal region, promoting circulation to vital organs and tissues. Improved blood flow ensures the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to cells, supporting their optimal functioning and overall health.
Additionally, abdominal massage facilitates the movement of lymphatic fluid, which plays a crucial role in immune function and waste removal. By stimulating lymphatic circulation, this massage technique aids in the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste products from the body. As a result, the lymphatic system can function more efficiently, promoting a healthier immune response and overall well-being.
Enhancement of Natural Detoxification Processes
In addition to stimulating the lymphatic system, abdominal massage also aids in the enhancement of the body's natural detoxification processes. By improving circulation and oxygenation, this therapeutic technique supports the optimal functioning of organs involved in detoxification, such as the liver and kidneys. Abdominal massage helps to enhance the efficiency of these organs, enabling them to effectively eliminate toxins and waste from the body.
Reduction of Menstrual Pain
Abdominal massage can offer much-needed relief for menstrual pain. The gentle pressure applied during the massage helps to alleviate cramping, discomfort, and other symptoms associated with menstruation. By promoting relaxation and improving circulation to the reproductive organs, abdominal massage can contribute to a reduction in menstrual pain and hormonal imbalances.
Improve Sleep and Insomnia
Abdominal massage has been found to have a calming and relaxing effect on the body, which can help improve sleep quality and alleviate insomnia. By reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and balancing the nervous system, abdominal massage can contribute to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience.
Seeking Professional Guidance in Abdominal Massage
Working with a qualified massage therapist or healthcare professional who specializes in abdominal massage ensures that you receive safe and effective treatment. Additionally, a trained practitioner can tailor the massage to your specific needs, considering any underlying health conditions or concerns.
New patients can book a 60 minute treatment and receive an extra 15 minutes for free! Book Your New Patient Treatment Here.
Seeking Support from a Registered Dietitian
Just like the benefits of abdominal massage mentioned in our blog, our dedicated team of registered dietitians focuses on holistic health, considering both your physical and nutritional needs. Whether you're striving for weight management, improved digestion, or a boost in energy levels, you can expect personalized, tailored to you nutrition care from our dietitians. Book a free 15 minute consultation with a dietitian to see how we can help you!
Key takeaways: Benefits of Abdominal Massage
Abdominal massage offers a multitude of benefits that enhance overall well-being. These include improved digestive function, increased circulation, stress relief and relaxation, and support for detoxification processes.
By incorporating abdominal massage into your self-care routine, you can experience these key benefits and promote a healthier, more balanced body. Whether seeking professional guidance or practicing self-massage techniques, abdominal massage can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine, supporting optimal health and vitality.
If you’re surprised about the benefits of abdominal massage, you’re not alone! Many patients don’t even know that abdominal massage exists. Book a treatment here, or email myself, the owner, for any questions you may have prior to receiving an abdominal treatment at info@striveholistic.com. We’re a local downtown Edmonton massage clinic located out of the Evolve Strength downtown gym and nestled in the 124th street downtown Edmonton district!
