Abdominal Massage
In many schools, abdominal massage is not usually performed as a standard element of a massage procedure, but rather as a form of therapy. The digestive system and abdominal organs work almost continuously. In yoga, abdominal self-massage (Nauli) is recommended as a daily practice for prevention and improving the function of the abdominal organs. The benefits of performing Nauli are presented in the following words in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, one of the three classical texts of Hatha Yoga: “It increases the gastric fire”, improves digestion and removes all diseases.”
Therefore, abdominal massage should not be underestimated. When undertaking abdominal massage, one should already have experience, and it is best to perform it initially under the guidance of an experienced masseur and always after consultation with a doctor. Abdominal massage performed incorrectly can do more harm than good. The basic condition for its performance is an empty stomach. It also cannot be performed on pregnant women or during menstruation. Other contraindications include heart disease, high blood pressure, low blood pressure, hernia, gallstones, stomach ulcers, and it should not be performed on people recovering from surgical procedures in the abdominal and chest areas.
We massage 10 points, following the clockwise direction, thereby assisting the peristalsis of the
intestines. Another concept is presented by Harald Brust, one of the first authors of books on Thai massage, recommending performing abdominal massage in the opposite direction to the movement of food through the digestive system, that is, counterclockwise, based on the principle widely used in yoga that the best relaxation is achieved after prior tension. Therefore, according to this theory, by massaging in the opposite direction to the direction of the digestive system’s work, opposing its work, one promotes its relaxation. This does not adversely affect the work of the digestive system, as it is not a long enough technique to cause harm. It is difficult to unambiguously assess this approach due to the lack of scientific research on this matter. However, we can choose this direction of abdominal massage when the person being massaged has increased intestinal peristalsis.
The same author also explains what downward vertical pressure gives and what are the benefits of pressure applied towards the navel. In the first case, the abdominal muscles are relaxed, and in the second case, the internal organs are stimulated. The best effects are achieved by combining both techniques. Abdominal massage can be performed after the third or fourth stage of the massage. The legs of the person being massaged should be bent, and it is most comfortable to place a roller or rolled towel under the knees. We ask the person being massaged to relax. Ideally, the masseur’s movements should be synchronized with the breath of the person being massaged, applying pressure on the exhale and releasing pressure on the inhale.
Piotr Druzgała