What happens when you massage your belly?

Massaging your belly can be an incredibly effective way to promote overall health and well-being. As one of the most sensitive and exposed areas of the body, your belly is home to many organs that benefit from massage. In fact, studies have shown that regular belly massage can reduce depression, anxiety, belly bloating, and other common illnesses. But what does belly massage entail and what are some of the potential benefits you can expect to see? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at what happens when you massage your belly and the long term benefits of doing so.

What Does Belly Massage Entail?

Belly massage typically involves rubbing gentle strokes over the stomach area in a clockwise direction. Typical massage sessions can last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, but it’s not necessary to receive a lengthy massage to experience the benefits. A 15-minute abdominal massage twice daily can be incredibly effective at reducing belly bloating and improving your overall health. It’s important to note that it’s best not to massage a spine that your doctor considers unstable and to let your massage therapist know if you have any injuries. Additionally, it should not be done if you have sunburn or skin damage in the abdominal area.

Benefits of Belly Massage

Regular abdominal massage can come with a myriad of benefits. Research shows that it can reduce belly bloating, ease pain and discomfort associated with digestive issues, reduce PMS symptoms, improve metabolic function, and even relieve constipation. Massage on a regular basis can also improve your body’s natural defense system and make it easier to manage stress and get quality sleep.

Better Digestion

Massaging the belly can help digestion in a number of ways. It helps to stimulates the digestive organs which can help to break down food more easily. It also helps to reduce pressure on your intestines and stomach, allowing your body to process food more efficiently. Massage can also help to reduce levels of stress and anxiety which have been known to aggravate symptoms of indigestion.

Stimulates the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system is crucial for our body’s defence mechanisms and overall health. Massage helps to stimulate the lymphatic system, which is the body’s natural defence against infection and disease. Lymphatic drainage massage is a specific massage technique that can help your body to drain lymph nodes, move lymph fluids and reduce swelling.

Pain Relief

Massaging your belly can provide relief from a number of physical ailments, including gastrointestinal pain and menstrual cramps. Studies have shown that regular abdominal massage can reduce the amount of time it takes for waste to pass through your intestines, thus reducing the pain associated with constipation.

Improved Self-Esteem

Rubbing your stomach during a massage can represent a symbolic approval of the body in contrast to the usual sense of restriction. It is a way to tell yourself that you are worth taking care of, no matter your shape or size. It can be a powerful tool for improving self-esteem and body image and for boosting confidence.

The Bottom Line

Massaging your belly is an effective way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. From reducing belly bloating, to improving your body’s natural defence systems, to relieving constipation, to giving you better self-esteem, stomach massage offers a myriad of benefits. If you’re considering a massage, it’s important to speak with a qualified therapist who can ensure you’re receiving the right type of massage and the best possible care.