The abdomen is one of the most delicate and vital areas of the human body. It houses many important organs such as the stomach, diaphragm, colon, small/large intestines, liver, pancreas, and gall bladder. Traditional systems of medicine tell us that the abdomen is the powerhouse of the body and that all ailments result from an imbalance in the abdominal area. Modern medical science also supports this theory. In a healthy person, there is a continuous muscular contraction of the alimentary canal every twenty seconds. These contractions push food through the stomach and into the intestines, and also aid the process of excretion. When these contractions do not occur in a rhythmic manner, the process of digestion is delayed.

       This can lead to numerous disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, constipation, and spastic colon. When the digestive process slows down, the body does not receive sufficient nutrition and other parts of the body may be affected. The abdominal muscles also work in conjunction with the back muscles to help keep the spine erect. Any weakness in them can lead to chronic back ache, as the muscles of the back get overstressed from sharing the majority of the load.

        In case of women, the reproductive organs are also located in the abdominal area. Any disorders in the abdomen can lead to problems such as painful menstruation, difficult menopause, and infection. It can cause miscarriages or premature birth in pregnant mothers.

       Abdominal massage is a special kind of massage that seeks to alleviate all these problems associated with the abdomen by keeping the abdominal area healthy and strong, and promoting proper functioning of the organs inside the abdominal cavity. In this highly specialized form of massage, the client is made to lie on his or her back with knees drawn up. The therapist then uses his hands and fingers to gently knead the abdominal areas with gentle strokes. Abdominal massage strengthens the abdominal muscles and helps in relieving back pain. It also stimulates the functioning of the intestines and promotes the process of digestion and excretion. Thus, it is very beneficial in curing chronic constipation. Abdominal massage also stimulates blood flow to all the vital organs in the abdominal cavity, and improves their functioning. It also helps to alleviate pain associated with menstrual cramps and menopause.