Abdominal Therapy is a holistic approach to reproductive and digestive wellness that supports and rejuvenates the abdomen, womb and pelvic bowl. This treatment involves an external massage of the abdomen, back, glutes, and sacrum which helps guide organs back into position and enhances nerve, blood, energy and lymph flow. The increased flow restores balance and allows the body to heal.
The techniques of Abdominal Therapy, also known as Maya Abdominal Massage, are a combination of traditional wisdom and modern science. Dr. Rosita Arvigo studied for 40 years with traditional healers in Central America and combined what she learned with extensive anatomical study and her Naprapathic* practices. Some of the techniques have roots in ancient Maya practices of abdominal massage.
Abdominal Therapy offers a multitude of benefits for various reproductive and digestive conditions and concerns, including:
Menstrual pain and endometriosis
Pelvic pain
Digestive issues
Ovarian cysts and PCOS
Urinary problems
Chronic yeast, BV & bladder infections
Postpartum recovery
Scar tissue & surgical recovery
Optimal fertility
Chronic low back/sacral issues
Anxiety, Depression & Emotional Well Being
Additionally, these sessions facilitate a meaningful reconnection to the abdomen, an under-treated area of the body, as well as supporting overall physical and emotional well-being.
What to Expect in an Abdominal Therapy Session
Your initial Abdominal Therapy appointment is 90 minutes, which includes a comprehensive intake and exploration of your personal health story, the treatment, followed by a brief digestion and instructions on how to preform your own self-abdominal massage at home.
The treatment involves an external massage of your entire back, glutes and sacrum in addition to your abdomen. Massaging these areas systematically and thoroughly optimizes the circulation of all the systems in your body. We call this NAVEL: Nerve, Arterial and Venous blood, Energy, and Lymph.
Follow up treatments can be booked for 75 or 60 minutes.
Melissa with Dr. Rosita Arvigo, post Abdominal Therapy Training
Can I still have Abdominal Therapy with an IUD? You can, but it’s not ideal if you are seeking help for uterine conditions. Pressure is not applied over the uterus when there is an IUD in place. Massage in the low abdomen is important for conditions like painful periods and surgical (cesarean) recovery. What is the best time in my cycle for a session? Typically, the optimal time is between menses and ovulataion.
What is the difference between Abdominal Therapy, Maya Abdominal Therapy and Arvigo Massage? The names Abdominal Therapy, Maya Abdominal Massage and Arvigo Massage are often use interchangeably. How many sessions will I need? A typical treatment plan includes one to two Abdominal Therapy sessions in the first month followed by monthly treatments thereafter. You may find that 3 sessions achieve the results you desire, while others may continue treatment for 6 months or longer. What does it feel like? Does abdominal therapy hurt? It should not hurt, but most people have never experienced abdominal massage, so they may feel some tenderness and other unfamiliar sensations at first. The massage is intended to be nourishing and relaxing.
Can Abdominal Therapy help with IUI or IVF? Yes! Abdominal Therapy support all types of conception. Regular professional treatments and daily self-abdominal massage can improve follicles, cervical fluid, uterine lining and blood supply. Nurturing touch and relaxation will help you settle into the process, reducing stress and opening the way for conscious conception… whatever your path looks like.