ABDOMINAL MASSAGE:
I am always surprised at how little attention the abdomen receives during a typical massage session, given the number of vital organs housed in this area. Provided the client is comfortable, I always like to incorporate just a few minutes of therapeutic touch to this area. Not only is it extremely relaxing, but focusing just a little energy onto such an important area in the body can be very impactful to overall well-being. It can be a nice way to reintegrate a part of the body that some women feel uncomfortable with, too. However, if you prefer that your stomach not be touched …the best part about the abdominal area is that you can perform the most basic of the techniques on yourself!
Some benefits of abdominal massage are:
*increases blood flow and oxygen to organs
*can help relax the muscles surrounding the colon
*stimulates the digestive tract and helps relieve constipation
*releases emotional tension
*massaging the sides of the abdomen can release tension in the lower back
To perform a very basic abdominal massage on yourself, first add 1-2 drops of peppermint or lavender essential oils to carrier oil and rub on your hands. Peppermint is cooling and stimulating, but it is very good for calming cramps or nausea. Lavender is good for relaxation. You can use other oils but these two are very common oils most people already have, and they are safe for use in this area. Lay down in a comfortable place; I like to light candles and put on soothing music. Rub the oil in a clockwise direction over your entire abdominal area. “Clockwise” meaning is if a clock were laid on top of your belly facing up, so 3:00 would be your left side and 9:00 would be your right side. It is important to go clockwise as this is the direction of the flow in your colon. Use light to medium pressure, making large circles then smaller circles. Repeat for a few minutes or until you fall asleep 😉
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