Bellies. We all have them. Some are softer than others, and some are more "defined." Regardless of what sort of outer-belly we each have, they all serve the same purpose and function in day-to-day life. Some work better than others, but no human lives without one.
In my work, I have found that abdominal massage is not high on anyone's list of priorities. It should be. The abdomen is a sacred space--why else would there be phrases such as "gut reaction," or "gut feeling?" It is the core, the center, the first home. Cravings, pangs, longing--we feel these things viscerally. If massage has the power to de-stress, then doesn't it stand to reason that this might be a place that could benefit greatly from therapeutic touch?
I recently read an article (which you should read: HERE, thanks to my friend Aine for finding it for me!) in which the author discussed studies that show that the neurons in our digestive tract don't only receive signals from the brain, but also communicate the other way. Not only does stress affect our stomachs and beyond, but digestive troubles can affect our mental state in the forms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and many more!
WHAT?!?!
I get clients all the time who write down on their intake form that they deal with various digestive issues, including constipation, but decline abdominal massage. Of course there are many different potential reasons for this, all of which I don't presume to know--but one thought is that in this age of photoshop, there are unreal expectations put on us--women, in particular--to look a certain way, and we are afraid to be shamed if we don't. That is absolutely not to say that it is shameful to be thin, or skinny, or toned, or to want to look your best. I'm not going to get on a soapbox about it, but as a massage therapist, it would be wonderful if more clients knew that when you are on a massage table, you are equal. Equal in the number of muscles, bones, joints, etc. that make up our bodies. Equal in being human. I try to see bodies as whole. It is not my place to pass judgment, but to assist in promoting health and wellness through massage.
Abdominal massage can also help with low back pain, hip flexors (Psoas work is amazingly beneficial!), menstrual cramps, prenatal conditions, deep breathing, meditation, and grounding. Ask for it at your next massage! (Make sure your practitioner ALWAYS uses a clockwise motion--aiding peristalsis (the direction of digestion) rather than reversing it.)
Be well.
Dani
Dani
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