ABDOMINAL (BELLY) MASSAGE

• Symptoms of bowel dysfunction are:
• Constipation, frequent diarrhea
• Gases, meteorism, discomfort in the abdomen
• Nausea, nervousness
• Depression, anxiety
• Insomnia
• Bad breath
• Obsessions with foods
• Sexual problems
• Skin problems
• Swelling and cold feet

The major role of the alternative therapist is to recognize these symptoms and prevent any development.

Abdominal Massage is a deep tissue holistic technique that focuses mainly on the belly. That’s why first of all the therapist needs a detailed medical history. The session begins in prone position with a relaxing massage to loosen the ierolagonia area. Then in supine position the therapist uses all the energy points for body fluids movement. After he energies the inguinal lymph nodes, the main part of the massage begins. The session lasts 40 minutes and pressure, compression and stretching techniques are used. The therapist also moves and shakes the lower part of the body. When it is necessary we combine the technique with Shiatsu or Reflexology. The therapist gives useful advisees for detoxification and sometimes herbs when it’s necessary.

The benefits of Belly massage are similar to Colon cleansing (colon hydrotherapy) and it provides solution to:

• Constipation (even in chronic cases)
• Abdominal pain, flatulence
• Acne, skin problems (the skin shows brighter and clean)
• Psychological problems
• Nervous System problems

Abdominal massage also helps to reduce blood pressure and stress and the client feels full of energy.

The Large Intestine Massage based on the Ampuku technique that developed in Japan by Shinsai Ota, in the late 1600s. Ampuku is a part of Shiatsu and literally means "massaging the belly". According to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the region of the abdomen (actually a little below the belly button) is the "home" of our main energy Hara. When a Samurai wanted to comet suicide he cut his Hara (Hara-kiri!). Massage in this area controls the flow of Qi (energy) and creates harmony.

(This was my very first Belly Massage as a Therapist, a few years ago)

K.T. was a 53 years old woman with chronic constipation problem with a “strong” also chronic constipation history from her mother. Her diet was rather balanced, but she did not have enough water (1-1,5 glasses per day) or fruits. The "visits" to the toilet, every 3-4 days, leave her with a dissatisfaction feeling. Her belly, although she was thin, was bloated and hard. During the session, I felt the gut was blocked especially the anion and transverse section. Our “teamwork” was perfect and in the end of the session she was feeling very good. 2 hours later she called me and she was excited! For the first time in her life, she went 2 times consecutive in the toilet and felt her gut "empties". The same thing was repeated also the next morning!! It was the first time for me too; that I noticed myself how direct and effective is the Colon Massage!