Massage is a technique used to both relax the body and help cleanse it of stored toxins. Abdominal massage is something often missed in Western massage approaches, though it is almost always incorporated in Eastern practice for its benefits to the digestive system. Men who suffer from digestive ailments such as constipation, acid reflux and gas can particularly benefit from abdominal massage. There are several techniques, some of which are more easily performed by a practitioner, and some you can do yourself. Consult your doctor before using massage techniques to self-treat any health issues.
Chi Self-Massage
One way to perform abdominal massage for men is through a chi self-massage technique. This massage technique is particularly good for relieving constipation, Mantak Chia writes in the book "Chi Self-Massage: The Taoist Way of Rejuvenation." Begin by lying on your back with knees bent and feet flat. Rub your hands together and use the middle and index fingers to make small clockwise circles as you massage around the navel area. Begin at the lower end of the right side of the stomach and move up and across to the left side and down the lower left side. Imagine energy flowing through and down the large intestine.
Chi Nei Tsang
Chi nei tsang is a type of abdominal massage can be helpful for men suffering from toxic overload, Gilles Marin explains in the book "Healing from Within With Chi Nei Tsang." One chi nei tsang technique involves a practitioner placing a hand below your navel and applying pressure. Meanwhile, you expand your abdomen when you inhale and release it during your exhale. The muscle contractions that occur during this technique can move chi --- or energy --- through the body, and expel toxins through the colon.
Stroking
Another abdominal massage technique for men that can help with gas and flatulence is called stroking. According to the book "Therapeutic Management of Incontinence and Pelvic Pain" by Jeanette Haslam, this technique involves gentle stroking up the abdominal wall. It continues across the back, over the vagus nerve and iliac crests and down both sides of the pelvis toward the groin. This technique is best employed by a trained massage therapist who understands the anatomy of the stomach and intestines.
Maya Massage
There is a form of abdominal massage focused on the upper abdomen which author Rosita Arvigo calls "Maya massage." This technique, discussed in her book, "Rainforest Home Remedies," involves only the abdomen above and around the belly button. Using lotion or oil on the finger tips, begin by placing the fingers directly below the ribcage in the middle of your stomach, and start moving the fingers downward toward the navel three times. Repeat this on both sides of your stomach. Arvigo claims this form of abdominal massage can help with releasing deep-seated emotions, gastritis and lack of appetite.
References
- "Chi Self-Massage: The Taoist Way of Rejuvenation"; Mantak Chia; 2006
- "Healing from Within With Chi Nei Tsang"; Gilles Marin; 1999
- "Therapeutic Management of Incontinence and Pelvic Pain"; Jeanette Haslam; 2007
- "Rainforest Home Remedies"; Rosita Arvigo; 2001
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