Question: I want to learn abdominal massage. I’m emailing you because you’re certified in nearly every abdominal modality and have a wealth of information. I’m exploring Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy and Chi Nei Tsang, but I’m just starting. Most information I’ve found, apart from committing to the full programs, is for self-massage. I agree that’s a good first step, which is why I’m considering your courses (Womb Care and Abdominal Scars). Would you recommend this as a starting place to offer abdominal massage? Or is this exclusively for self-care? I don’t have enough information to commit to one abdominal modality. I don’t know the best investment of my time and energy for a solid education in this area. Do you have any thoughts? Any feedback or suggestions would be appreciated.
Answer: I get this question a lot! I learned valuable but different lessons from the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®, Chi Nei Tsang, Functional Methods, and Visceral Manipulation™ training. I wrote about the differences here (when I studied them), https://alignmentmonkey.nurturance.net/2016/3-abdominal-therapies/. Choosing just one is challenging. The direction depends on your goals and available time. I suggest getting a session of each modality.
In this article, https://alignmentmonkey.nurturance.net/2019/belly-inspired/, I wrote about why I moved away from any one protocol. The Arvigo training has changed since I went through the program with Dr. Rosita Arvigo, and ownership has changed, so I can’t speak to the current training. The CNT training varies depending on the instructor. I studied Chi Nei Tsang (CNT) with Kyle Cline (Oregon) and Mantak Chia (Thailand). I recommend both. You can read about some of the courses I’ve taken here and here.
Self-Care Abdominal Massage
If you want to learn my abdominal massage approach, I offer 14 CEUs for the Womb Care and FTB courses together. MyAbdominal Courses are technically self-care, professional bodyworkers have learned valuable skills from them. Since I have many massage therapists, I’ve added a bonus page for professionals in the Womb Care & Free The Belly course.
In my courses, massage therapists will deepen their knowledge of abdominal layers, anatomy, contraindications to abdominal massage, diastasis recti causes, emotional holding patterns in the belly, and more. The practitioner page for massage therapists includes video lessons on approaching the abdomen, calming techniques, using flower essences, and accessing the breath. Read testimonials from other LMTs about my self-care courses on this page and the course description pages. Let me know if you have questions.
