Arvigo Abdominal Massage as a complementary therapy for Endometriosis

Arvigo Abdominal Massage as a complementary therapy for Endometriosis

by Magüi Moreno

I recently had an abdominal massage as part of my research on complementary therapies for treating endometriosis. I wanted to share my experience for any other women out there who maybe thinking about it, and especially for those that are not yet aware of this technique.

The Arvigo techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy Simply was first devised by Dr. Rosita Arvigo, a US naturopath, based on ancient Maya healing practices from Central America. Like all massage techniques, it works to improve the flow of blood and lymph to the targeted area - abdomen, pelvis, and lower back. As with any other natural healing, the Arvigo Technique seeks to restore the body to its natural balance.

What's interesting about the Maya Abdominal Therapy is that it is based on the understanding of the importance of the correct positioning of the reproductive and digestive organs for pelvic and abdominal health. This technique claims to correct the surrounding muscles and ligaments, improve organ function, normalize hormones and flush out toxins.

My therapist emailed me quite an extensive consultation form prior to treatment. You only complete what you feel comfortable sharing, but it is quite exhaustive and goes beyond the usual medical history questions to include emotional and psychological wellbeing.

At the beginning of the first session, we had a lengthy chat over the questionnaire as well as issues important to me. The session included a 1-hour massage concentrating on the belly, pelvis and back (you start lying on your back and then turn around to lie on your tummy). My therapist also showed me a simple yet relaxing self-care massage sequence. In addition we discussed how other modalities, such as castor oil packs, can support my healing journey. The first session lasts up to two hours, subsequent sessions up to 60-90 minutes. I was very surprised how quickly the time went....

According to my therapist, most people will feel the benefits of Maya massage after just one session, and that is all they need. Some health conditions will take longer to improve and/or resolve. I found my two periods since the massage have been lighter and significantly less painful.

Ideally,  the massage needs to be 'carried on' at home by the patient - this is quite an important aspect of the Arvigo technique. There are several reasons for this:

1. First, we all need to feel empowered to influence our own healing and health. It is frustrating and emotionally damaging when other people appear to control our wellbeing and this is very much the case with endometriosis. By taking back responsibility for our health, through positive action, we benefit from both the physical improvements and the psychological assurance that comes from being able to do something positive for our bodies!

2.   Second, most medical conditions take a while to improve just as they took time to develop. While Maya Abdominal Therapy may jump start the healing process, a few minutes of self-massage a day can be really useful to restoring and supporting a sense of improved health.

3.   Third, you are always available to yourself, your Arvigo Therapist is not. You maximize the benefits from the treatment, and you can have far fewer treatments to get great results.

     Based on my personal experience, I would certainly recommend it bearing in mind that - at best, it can improve endometriosis symptoms (in my case, a lighter period and a lot less pain). At worst, it is a pleasant and relaxing massage, despite the fact that it can feel a bit weird to have your belly massaged. Because we tend to hold a lot of tightness in that area, it can be really beneficial. The lower back portion of the massage releases a lot of tension and is a real treat! 

      Having said all that, it is always worth including the disclaimer that, as with all therapies, it needs to be tailored to you and your circumstances. It is also vital that you find a trained, certified and well experienced therapist in this particular massage. Unfortunately in Scotland there are only 2 Arvigo Massage therapist (contact details below). The other aspect worth mentioning is that the cost can be significant (I paid £85 for the first 2-hour session and £55 for any 1-hour follow-up sessions). However, I was impressed about the focus on self-care and my therapist has been very supportive in this regard sending me detailed information about how to self-massage and the use of other related techniques that may be beneficial. If you see it as part-therapeutic, part-training (for your own use) then it is not that expensive.

For more information:

https://arvigotherapy.com, where you can find a directory of UK-based certified therapists

As far as I'm aware there are only 2 certified Arvigo therapists in Scotland:

Joanna Anderson
Practitioner in The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy
& Complementary Health Therapist

Mobile: 07833 685604
jo@joanna-anderson.co.uk
www.joanna-anderson.co.uk
 

Karen Harris

Practitioner in The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy
& Massage Therapist

Marischal Place

Edinburgh EH4 3NE

Mobile:  0774 0704159