A session incorporating integrative whole body massage through the focus of abdominal therapy. In this work we start and return to the belly and the pelvic bowl – your root – as we work to address the body as a whole. Tending to your physical tissue as well as your emotional and energetic stories, we make space to work in all areas of the body as things present. This session uses gentle external manipulation that helps to reposition internal organs of the digestive and reproductive system. This can create healthy and optimal flow – from blood, lymph, nerve and energy movement – and restore vitality for the whole body to thrive.
Abdominal Therapy is about bringing the body back into alignment and balance. It is known to help release embodied stress, support fertility, encourage hormone balance and healthy digestion. This is work to help you return to the core of your being – your foundation. Using gentle external techniques the work helps guide internal organs into their proper position for improved function and optimal health. Treating the abdomen, lower back and hips the work is best known for encouraging a uterus into alignment, support prostate health in men and for relief of many common digestive disorders.
Working to soften the musculature and release armoring in the trunk we can help improve the flow of nerve impulses, blood, lymphatic fluid and energy in this vital area of the body. Abdominal Therapy helps with coming into a place of comfort and ease in one’s body. Assisting the flow of fluids and energy allows the body to nourish and repair itself. Helping to clear congestion from the pelvis and abdomen we are supporting the body’s natural ability to be self-regulating and self-regenerating.
This important time-honored work was handed down by Mayan healer Don Elijio Panti to Dr. Rosita Arvigo. Don Elijio would say “If a women’s uterus is out of balance, so is she”. Many midwives and healers agree that being balanced in this area is paramount for holistic wellness.
The following are the most common phases of life, conditions and symptoms that Abdominal Therapy may help address:
Benefits for Everyone (all ages):
- Fertility enhancement
- Chronic headaches/migraines
- Digestive disorders/concerns, such as reflux, indigestion, constipation IBS and Crohn’s
- General energy levels
- Chronic low back pain
- Restricted breathing due to anxiety and tension
Benefits for Women:
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Menstrual issues (painful/irregular cycles)
- Pelvic organ congestion (endometriosis, cysts and fibroids)
- Pre-conception through postpartum
- Discomforts of pregnancy
- Birthing preparation
- Chronic bladder/yeast infections
- Pelvic surgery recovery
- Perimenopause and menopause
Benefits for Men:
- Early stages of BPH (Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy)
- Mild Prostatitis
- Impotence, erectile dysfunction
To begin your Abdominal Therapy journey you start with an initial 120 minute session. Prior to the session you digitally submit a detailed health history form. At the top of our session we have a conversation reviewing the information gathered and find out how I can best support you. We will discuss several facets of your lifestyle and health in addition to defining any goals and answering any questions you have for me. The initial session starts with a castor oil pack on the abdomen while I utilize craniosacral therapy techniques to allow your body to drop into a state to receive the abdominal therapy. During the session we focus on the abdomen – from lower ribcage to the pubic bone – the low back and the glutes. You will be unclothed and draped for comfort throughout your session. You will be taught a self-massage during our session together. It is recommended you fold this massage into your self-care rhythms. Self-care massage done frequently increases the benefits of the work. You also leave with your own castor oil pack to continue those at home. Follow-up sessions for Abdominal Therapy can be 60 minute or 90 minute based on preference.
Please note: We avoid abdominal therapy during the first trimester of pregnancy, during menses (no lower strokes), for 6 weeks following birth, 12 weeks following abdominal surgery, if there is an acute infection or fever present, if there is an IUD or mesh in place, or if you are currently undergoing chemotherapy or cancer is present with the pelvis.
If you have any questions about timing of the work please feel free to reach out to me prior to booking in order to time your session based on your specific needs and goals.
A message to female clients:
If you are actively trying to conceive the best time to come in for a session is after your bleed up until ovulation. If you are not trying to conceive (and know you are not pregnant) the best time to schedule a session is after your bleed up until about 5 days before you start your bleed once again. After the initial session if you choose to come in during bleeding (which may be indicated for digestive support) we will allow the lower abdomen & uterus to rest and release and thus will skip the lower strokes of the massage.
A message to male clients:
I am happy to work with male clients. Given that this work is known for its benefits to the prostate I have received a vast array of questions. So for clarity’s sake: I do not do prostate massage and there is nothing sensual or sexual about my work. All abdominal work performed is above the pubic bone and while I work standard draping is used including a sheet and blanket for comfort.
