abdominal therapy for digestive health
Soothing the gut and calming the nervous system
Many people come for abdominal therapy to ease digestive complaints such as IBS, bloating, constipation, or discomfort linked to stress - often after having tried everything else.
You may have already cut out foods, followed elimination diets, and seen some improvement — only for symptoms to linger or return. That’s because digestion isn’t only about what you eat — it’s also about how your body receives and processes life. Stress, anxiety, and long-held tension in the abdomen can keep the gut in a state of contraction, even when your diet is perfect.
The gut is often called the second brain — home to millions of nerve cells that communicate constantly with the rest of the body. When we’re under stress, this communication can become disrupted, leading to tension, inflammation, and pain. Abdominal massage works at this deeper level — calming the nervous system, improving circulation, and helping your digestive organs move freely again.
Circulation and lymph flow are increased, helping to clear stagnation and inflammation.
The diaphragm relaxes, allowing deeper breathing and improved oxygen flow.
The vagus nerve (the body’s main “rest and digest” pathway) is soothed, helping the whole digestive system to settle.
Clients often describe a feeling of deep relaxation and ease after a treatment — a sense that their belly has exhaled.
(This therapy is suitable for both men and women seeking support.)
💫 Did you know?
About 90% of the body’s serotonin — the chemical linked to mood and wellbeing — is created in the gut.
For many people, abdominal massage also brings a sense of emotional release. Because the belly is so closely linked with the nervous system and emotional memory, softening this area can not only improve digestive complaints, but also have a powerful effect on your whole emotional landscape to help restore a deep sense of calm and connection.
what to expect in a session
Each session begins with a comprehensive review exploring your personal health story— exploring your digestive patterns, stress levels, and any physical or emotional factors that may be contributing to discomfort. This allows me to understand how your body is functioning as a whole and tailor the treatment to meet your unique needs.
The hands-on work involves a massage of the abdomen, back, hips, and sacrum to help stimulate circulation through the digestive organs, calm the nervous system, and encourage the natural movement of the intestines. This can bring relief from symptoms such as bloating, sluggish digestion, tension, or pain, while helping your belly feel softer, lighter, and more at ease.
During the session, I often incorporate a castor oil pack — a traditional, soothing treatment that helps to reduce inflammation and support lymphatic flow through the abdomen. The gentle warmth combined with the oil encourages relaxation and enhances the therapeutic effects of the massage.
Healing the digestive system takes time, especially when symptoms have built up over months or years. A series of treatments (typically 3-6) allows the body to gradually unwind and re-establish its natural rhythm. Throughout your sessions, I’ll teach you how to support your digestion at home — including self-massage, using castor oil packs, how to support your lymph and other lifestyle practices, to help keep your belly soft and flowing between treatments.
Testimonials
"Suffering with an upset stomach for ages ,came across Maria's abdominal massage, although a little hesitant to try at first , I found it to be most helping in aiding in recovery/ treatment.. the whole experience was a positive and relaxing, definitely would recommend to anyone, and something I will be using again as part of my overall healing path , great therapist, healing hands"
Mr J L Hargie
"Maria's Abdominal Massage was fantastic for relaxation and helped calm my abdomen after having a long flare up (from Crohn's disease). The massage helped relieve pressure I was feeling and since then (touch wood) it has been less painful and has helped me to relax. I plan to return for further treatment in the near future"
Sophia
"My pain level is half what it was. My wee is flowing again. I had the best night sleep after the treatment. " (client experiencing abdominal pain for 6 months following abdominal surgery)