Abdominal Massage: Diagnosis, Indications, and Specific Techniques

In the “Huangdi Neijing” it is stated: “Diseases arise from the imbalance of the five organs and the obstruction of the six viscera.” The abdomen, as the palace of the viscera, is crisscrossed with meridians and houses many important internal organs. It is also a key pathway for the distribution of qi and blood throughout the body. This tells us that the obstruction of the six viscera can lead not only to their own pathologies but also to diseases of the five organs. Abdominal massage is a direct method to resolve such obstructions. Commonly known as “belly rubbing,” abdominal massage is a crucial component of traditional Chinese massage therapy, involving techniques such as pushing, pulling, pointing, rubbing, and pressing with hands or elbows on the recipient’s abdomen.

Diagnosing Diseases through Abdominal Examination

Qi and blood are essential substances constituting the human body. Among them, qi is particularly crucial as it drives organ activity, blood circulation, fluid distribution, waste excretion, and metabolism. A common saying goes, “Man lives by a breath of qi,” implying that life depends on qi every moment. However, while qi is vital, its stagnation can cause harm. Therefore, treating diseases often starts with treating qi. Once qi flows smoothly, diseases are naturally resolved.

All chronic diseases can be associated with corresponding blockages in the abdomen. This means that chronic conditions can reveal their traces in the abdomen. Therefore, if a chronic disease persists without clear cause or effective treatment, one can search for blockages in the abdomen, such as hard lumps, painful points, water-filled cavities, or air pockets. Once these blockages are dispersed through massage, the chronic disease may also resolve.

Even if one has no apparent chronic illness, finding and dispersing any abdominal blockages can prevent future health issues.

The spleen and stomach are considered the foundation of postnatal life. Aging first manifests as disharmony in the spleen and stomach, leading to decreased nutrient absorption, imbalance in intestinal environment, and endocrine system disorders. By sensing changes in the abdomen, we can quickly adjust the viscera’s qi flow and help the body achieve metabolic balance.

Some people burp or pass gas immediately after starting the massage, indicating the upward movement of clear qi and downward movement of turbid qi, which is a sign of effective treatment. Others may hear gurgling sounds, which suggest the movement of stagnant water in the abdomen. If not expelled early, this dampness can cause various issues, including headaches, skin conditions, phlegm due to liver fire, and chronic diarrhea due to spleen deficiency.

“Disharmony of the stomach leads to restless sleep,” indicating that abdominal discomfort can affect sleep quality. Individuals with chronic sleep problems might find relief by massaging the abdomen to find and disperse blockages, resulting in better sleep.

If the abdomen feels firm but not painful, it may indicate trapped gas, which can be relieved by consuming gas-relieving foods or stimulating specific acupoints.

Chronic and persistent pain points may indicate blood stasis in addition to qi stagnation. Massaging these points, along with stimulating corresponding meridians, can help relieve these blockages.

If the abdomen feels soft without painful points but still feels uncomfortable, it may indicate deficiency of middle qi and lack of blood.

Gurgling sounds during abdominal massage often indicate movement of turbid water, which can be expelled through urination. Proper hydration is important but should be tailored to individual needs.

Indications for Abdominal Massage

Abdominal massage is effective for various disorders, particularly those related to the digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and urinary systems. It is especially beneficial for conditions such as spleen and stomach weakness, obesity, high blood lipids, fatty liver, diabetes, prostate enlargement, gynecological disorders, and sleep disturbances due to endocrine imbalance.

Indications by Medical Specialty

Internal Medicine: Gastric pain, gastroptosis, chronic gastritis, chronic colitis, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, insomnia, cold hands and feet, post-stroke sequelae.

Gynecology: Menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic inflammation, endocrine disorders, menopause syndrome.

Pediatrics: Diarrhea, constipation, food retention, milk retention, enuresis, convulsions.

Orthopedics: Cervical spondylosis, periarthritis of shoulder, lumbar muscle strain, lumbar disc herniation, knee arthritis.

Techniques for Abdominal Massage

Preparation: Ensure warmth, loosen clothing, lie supine on a bed with a low pillow, relax the whole body, calm the mind, regulate breathing, touch the palate with the tongue, and focus on the lower abdomen (dantian).

Heart Region Massage: Place the middle three fingers of both hands on the heart region (below the sternum), massage clockwise 21 times, then counterclockwise 21 times.

Circular Massage Along Abdominal Midline and Sides: Move the middle three fingers from the heart region downwards in a clockwise circular motion to the pubic region, then move fingers outward and upward to the heart region, repeating 21 times.

Midline Push-Press: Push down the abdominal midline from the heart region to the pubic region with the middle three fingers of both hands, repeating 21 times.

Right-Hand Circular Navel Massage: Circle the navel clockwise with the right hand, repeating 21 times.

Left-Hand Circular Navel Massage: Circle the navel counterclockwise with the left hand, repeating 21 times.

Push-Press Left Chest-Abdomen: Support the left side with the left hand at the waist, and push from below the left breast to the left groin with the right hand, repeating 21 times.

Push-Press Right Chest-Abdomen: Support the right side with the right hand at the waist, and push from below the right breast to the right groin with the left hand, repeating 21 times.

Precautions

Abdominal massage should be done with loosened clothing and in a supine position.

Perform massage with relaxed, gentle, and slow movements, avoiding forceful exertion and ensuring smooth breathing. Avoid rapid and abrupt movements.

Each session should last 30-40 minutes.

Enhanced gastrointestinal movement may cause stomach growling, belching, warmth, or hunger, which are normal effects requiring no intervention.

Avoid abdominal massage in cases of malignant tumors, internal bleeding, abdominal infections, and during pregnancy.

Effects of Abdominal Massage

Warm Abdomen: A warm sensation after several repetitions indicates gathering of internal qi.

Audible Gastrointestinal Movement: Regular practice results in noticeable bowel sounds, indicating smooth qi flow.

Clear Mind and Relaxation: Abdominal massage enhances the flow of clear qi to the head, reducing fatigue.

Expulsion of Stubborn Stools: Black, foul-smelling stools or diarrhea after massage indicate toxin expulsion from the gastrointestinal tract.

Improved Appetite: Enhanced digestive function leads to better nutrient absorption, weight gain in underweight individuals, and reduction of excess fat in overweight individuals.

Healthy Complexion and Strong Body: Long-term practice leads to a glowing complexion and strong body due to improved blood flow, endocrine balance, and abundant internal qi.

In summary, abdominal massage, as a traditional Chinese therapy, effectively alleviates various chronic diseases and regulates organ functions, improving overall health. Through proper techniques, hidden health issues can be identified and resolved, enhancing qi and blood flow for a healthier body. Abdominal massage offers significant benefits for both daily health maintenance and post-illness recovery. Embrace this ancient and effective therapy for a healthier and more enjoyable life.