Maya Abdominal Massage
Could this therapy spell the end to painful periods and bad digestion?

Health and Fitness, August 2005
Catherine Francis reports

The healers and Shamans of Central America believe a woman's centre is her uterus, and that most 'female troubles' are the result of a 'wandering womb'.

'The uterus is suspended in position by 10 ligaments, which gives it the space to double in size during a period, and to move and expand during a pregnancy,' explains Hilary Lewin, who, practices Maya Abdominal massage, a traditional therapy from Central America. 'However, the uterus can become twisted, tilted or badly positioned through something as simple as a fall, over-strenuous activity or prolonged pushing in labour. If, for example, the uterus is folded, it has to work hard to empty its self during a period, causing painful cramps. Women may also notice old brown blood at the start or end of a period; or problems such as fibroids or endometriosis may develop. This can also affect hormone release.'

Maya abdominal massage aims to reposition the uterus and increase blood flow to the area. Helping to relax the tension in the diaphragm and intestines also boosts blood flow to the abdomen, to improve digestive and reproductive health.

Having suffered extremely painful periods since my mid teens, I was keen to see if Maya massage could help. At my session Lewin first took a detailed health history. I then stripped to my underwear and lay on my back on the treatment table, covered in towels.

Initially working through a towel, then directly on my skin with oils, Lewin began making deep, firm strokes, starting from my pubic bone and sweeping up my belly. She said she could feel my uterus was positioned low in my pelvis and tipped quite far forward, and that I had a slightly anteriorally (forward) tipped pelvis, all of which could explain my period problems. She worked on massaging and repositioning my uterus, also rocking my pelvis intermittently. It was a strange, deep sensation.

Lewin also massaged my diaphragm and intestinal area, which was tender and which she said felt tight, which could explain my digestive problems. Deep, circular strokes were used to relax my intestines and increase blood flow. Later, I turned over and lewin worked on my sacrum (lower spine) and pressure points, to increase energy and blood flow.

Lewin also taught me self-massage techniques to use at home. 'Self-care is vital' explains Lewin. 'Most people see a difference after one session with a therapist. But a few minutes of self-massage a day is the key to permanently repositioning the uterus and sorting out problems.'

Sure enough, at my next period I felt a clear improvement. I did experience some pain, but for the first time in 18 years, I didn't feel the need to take any painkillers (normally I have to take strong painkillers for three days just to stay upright). I've booked further sessions with Lewin, and am practising self-massage daily.

(These photos are from Hilary's files, showing an Arvigo Massage)