Digestive and Therapeutic Abdominal Massage

Gut Health massage

Helps the gut work efficiently - relieves constipation, bloating and improves digestion

Digestive issues like bloating, constipation and diarrhea cause physical discomfort and difficult symptoms that really impact quality of life. More and more people are affected by a poor digestive system. 1 in 8 adults in the UK are affected by constipation and 1 in 6 people worldwide live with irritable bowel syndrome.

By helping the digestive system work effectively Bodkin’s digestive abdominal massage addresses negative symptoms and supports good gut health. This therapeutic massage encourages the flow of movement and energy through the digestive system. It works with the natural muscular movements of the large and small intestine to encourage regular bowel movements. It is a natural indigestion remedy. Techniques are applied to gauge the right amount of pressure so the massage provides therapeutic benefit without discomfort.

Lymphatic drainage massage

Revives vibrancy - reduces water retention

Bodkin’s natural lymphatic drainage massage breathes life into a tired body and helps defend against infections. The clearing effect of this massage helps move stagnant lymph fluid, allowing your body to eliminate toxins more efficiently and reduce swelling and water retention. Through gentle massage of the abdomen and lymphatic system, blockages are cleared and the body’s natural functions are given a kick start.

Mindfulness abdominal massage

Improves wellbeing and calms anxiety

Our thoughts, mood, emotions and physical state are interconnected; one affects the other. So when we feel pressured and stressed it’s common to experience poor sleep and studies show we are more vulnerable to infection and physical ill health.

Being in an emotionally bad place can lead to physical ill health. Equally, living with physical illness can affect our mental wellbeing.

Bodkin’s mindfulness massage helps to release negative emotions held in the body and encourage the flow of positive energy. As a result, general mood and wellbeing is improved.

The power of touch is underestimated, even a heartfelt hug can really lift the spirits. So this massage practice developed to support the spiritual, physical and emotional makes a real positive impact to wellbeing.

A therapeutic massage – what to expect

The first half of an initial session will be spent talking to understand an individuals needs and medical history.

The second half will be skin-on-skin massage of the abdomen. The first few techniques relax the body. This is followed by a prescribed set of practices to evaluate the pressure level that suits the individual. The abdomen and associated organs need to be approached with care and are best worked on gently over time. The skin-on-skin massage will cover the abdominal area, potentially the lymphatic system and may also include breathing techniques.

This massage, like many therapeutic practices, may stir emotions in the receiver but this is a very natural part of the experience.

Similarly, some people experience auras and see colours during a session whilst others won’t. Everyone has their own unique experience.

Contraindications for digestive and therapeutic massages

There are some basic contraindications for these therapeutic massages ie conditions which mean you can’t have the massage. You can’t have any of our therapeutic massages if you have any of the following:

  • an infectious disease

  • thrombosis

  • acute inflammations

  • cancer

  • skin infection

  • aneurism

  • are pregnant or suspect you maybe pregnant

  • have an IUD

  • have a pacemaker

You need to be over 18 to have one of these massages.

How to prepare for a therapeutic massage

It is best to wear a skirt or trousers with an elasticated waist or something with an easily loosened waste band.

You mustn’t eat for at least 4 hours before the massage. You are advised to eat vegetable soup the day before a massage and drink plenty of water.

After care

Relax, drink plenty of water and be kind to yourself.

Sessions

1 session is a good initial taster. However, a minimum course of 3 sessions is recommended as the benefits accrue over a number of sessions. It’s best to have no more than 2 weeks between each session to get the best effects.

5-8 sessions is the optimum number as this allows the benefits of the practice to build.

Prices

  • 1 session £95

  • 3 sessions £240

  • 5 sessions £375