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Dr. Cassone Holistic Medicine posted an update
Abdominal Massage for Constipation
To massage for constipation, lie down with knees bent and gently apply clockwise pressure and sweeping strokes to your abdomen, following the path of the large intestine: from the right hipbone up, across under the ribs, and down the left side. This technique, often called an “I L U” or “I love you” massage, can be done with fingers, knuckles, or the heel of your hand to help move stool toward the rectum.
Preparation
- Position: Best is to lie down on your back with your knees bent and a pillow under your knees to help relax your torso and abdomen.
- Timing: Perform the massage about 20-30 minutes after eating a fiber-rich breakfast to stimulate bowel movements.
Massage Steps
- The ‘I’ Stroke: Start on the lower right side of your abdomen and stroke upward toward the right rib cage.
- The ‘L’ Stroke: Move from the right rib cage across under your ribs to the left side.
- The ‘U’ Stroke: Then, stroke downward from the left rib cage to the lower left hipbone.
- Repeat: Repeat this entire “I L U” sequence several times.
- Circular Massage: Finish with 1-2 minutes of slow, gentle, clockwise circular motions around your belly button to stimulate the small intestine.
Tips for Effectiveness
- Pressure: Apply moderate, not intense, pressure.
- Focus: Spend extra time on any areas that feel hard or stuck to help soften stool.
- Breathing: Take deep breaths during the massage to help move gas and stool.
- Consistency: Perform the massage daily in combination with gentle exercise and a fiber-rich diet for best results.
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