Abdominal Massage For Constipation Relief

You can use abdominal massage for constipation relief. Massage can help stimulate peristalsis waves in your colon. Peristalsis (movement of an internal organ) helps move stagnant fecal matter out of your colon.

Caution: If you have undiagnosed abdominal pain or any conditions affecting abdominal organs, do NOT massage your abdomen without the OK of your healthcare provider.

Belly Massage For Constipation

For the best leverage, lie down to do the following abdominal massage for constipation. Alternately, stand in the shower and use a soapy solution for glide over your belly.

Take three to five minutes to do this massage. Notice if any areas feel slightly painful or tender. At first, use gentle pressure. After a few days you may want to use more pressure. If you have tender or slightly painful areas, the discomfort will probably decrease with daily massages.

Important: If you have deep or persistent pain, STOP this colon massage. If the pain continues, consult a healthcare provider.

Abdomen massage for constipation:

1. Starting on the lower right side of your colon, near the leg crease, make small circular movements or short strokes and massage upward to the bottom of the rib cage. 
2. Massage diagonally down and to the left until you are slightly below your navel (belly button). 
3. Massage diagonally up to the left until you reach your left outer rib cage.
4. Massage downward until reach your left leg crease.

The following video show you how to do your own abdominal massage to relieve constipation:

Essential Oils For Constipation

You can also use essential oil blends as part of a stomach massage for constipation. Here are three blends from The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy:

• 15 drops rosemary essential oil
• 10 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops peppermint essential oil

OR

• 10 drops orange essential oil
• 3 drops black pepper essential oil
• 3 drops coriander essential oil
• 2 drops cardamom essential oil

OR

• 15 drops patchouli essential oil
• 5 drops orange essential oil
• 5 drops black pepper essential oil
• 5 drops cardamom essential oil

1. Blend the essential oils in a small bottle with a cap.
   
2. For one ab massage, add 3 to 5 drops of the blend to one teaspoon carrier oil.

Note: If these essential oils are new for you, test a small patch of skin to make sure you're not sensitive to anything.

Preventing Constipation

To help prevent constipation, eat the recommended 25 grams or more of fiber each day (the average American eats only half that much) and drink lots of water. Whole grains, beans, and most vegetables and fruits are good sources of fiber. If needed, take a fiber supplement. If you haven't been eating much fiber, add it slowly to reduce side effects such as gas.

Also, be aware some medications can cause constipation, as can some supplements (such as iron). Taking magnesium can help relieve constipation (or even cause loose stools). Seeking professional advice is a good idea.

Tuina Abdominal Massage For Constipation Video

You can also get a professional massage that includes abdominal massage. The following video demonstrates tui na massage techniques for the abdomen.

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