Mayan abdominal massage, also known as Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy (ATMAT), is a non-invasive, external massage technique that focuses on repositioning internal organs that have shifted, thereby restricting the flow of blood, lymph, nerve, and chi energy. Here’s a detailed overview:
History and Origin:
Dr. Rosita Arvigo developed the technique after apprenticing with Don Elijio Panti, a renowned Mayan shaman in Belize, for over ten years. She combined her knowledge of Western medicine (as a naprapath) with Mayan traditional healing methods to create ATMAT.
It’s deeply rooted in traditional Mayan beliefs about health and wellness, with a focus on the position and health of the uterus and surrounding organs.
Benefits:
Reproductive Health: Helps to realign the uterus to its optimal position, which can alleviate symptoms of painful or irregular periods, bladder or yeast infections, and fertility challenges.
Digestive Health: Can improve various digestive issues such as constipation, indigestion, and bloating by enhancing blood flow and lymphatic drainage.
Prostate Health: For men, it can help alleviate prostate swelling and frequent urination problems.
Emotional Well-being: It can help release trapped emotions and traumas stored in the abdominal region.
Pregnancy: Preparation for conception and improved pregnancy outcomes by ensuring optimal uterine health.
Postpartum Recovery: Assisting in the return of the uterus to its normal position and shape.
The Technique:
Assessment: The practitioner will begin with a comprehensive review of the individual’s current and past health concerns.
Massage: Using hands, the therapist gently massages the abdomen to find and then correct misaligned reproductive and digestive organs.
Follow-up: The therapist often provides self-care instructions so that individuals can continue the technique at home between professional sessions.
Self-Care and Home Practice:
Part of the Arvigo therapy involves teaching individuals to perform self-care massage at home. This regular practice enhances the benefits of the professional sessions.
Precautions:
It’s not recommended during menstruation as the therapy can increase blood flow.
It’s not advised for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive through assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF during active cycles.
As with any therapeutic technique, individuals should consult a qualified healthcare provider to discuss their specific conditions or concerns.
Training:
The Arvigo Institute provides training for practitioners. It includes hands-on instruction, anatomy and physiology related to the technique, and spiritual healing aspects rooted in Mayan tradition.
Conclusion:
Mayan abdominal massage, or Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy, offers a holistic approach to many common issues related to reproductive, digestive, and emotional health. Like all therapeutic approaches, it may be beneficial for some individuals but not for others. Always consult with a qualified practitioner and be informed about the potential benefits and contraindications.
Advantages and disadvantages of mayan abdominal massage
Mayan abdominal massage, particularly as defined by the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy (ATMAT), has gained attention for its potential benefits, especially in relation to reproductive and digestive health. However, as with most therapeutic approaches, it has both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
Holistic Approach: ATMAT emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. By focusing on the abdomen, it addresses root causes of health issues rather than just the symptoms.
Non-Invasive: The technique is external and non-invasive, which means it lacks the risks associated with surgical procedures or invasive treatments.
Addresses Multiple Concerns: The massage can address a variety of health problems, from digestive disorders to reproductive issues, making it a versatile tool.
Emotional Release: Apart from the physical benefits, the massage is believed to help release trapped emotions and trauma stored in the abdominal region.
Empowerment Through Self-Care: Practitioners teach clients self-care techniques, which empower them to actively participate in their healing journey.
Natural Fertility Boost: For those trying to conceive naturally, the therapy may enhance fertility by improving uterine and organ position and health.
Improved Circulation: Enhancing blood, lymph, nerve, and chi flow in the abdominal region can benefit overall health and wellbeing.
Disadvantages:
Not Scientifically Proven: While many individuals report benefits, scientific research on Mayan abdominal massage is limited. Some claims, especially those related to enhancing fertility, may not be conclusively proven.
Not Suitable for Everyone: There are contraindications. For example, the massage shouldn’t be done during menstruation or for those undergoing certain fertility treatments.
Potential for Misdiagnosis: Without adequate training, a practitioner might misinterpret the underlying causes of abdominal pain or discomfort, potentially delaying necessary medical treatment.
Cost: As with many alternative therapies, regular sessions can be costly, and they may not be covered by health insurance.
Unregulated Practice: While there are training programs, the field isn’t as regulated as other medical professions. This could lead to varied skill levels among practitioners.
Temporary Discomfort: Some people might experience temporary discomfort or emotional release during or after the massage.
Limitations: While beneficial for many, it’s not a cure-all. Some conditions may not respond to the massage, and other medical or therapeutic interventions might be necessary.
In conclusion, while Mayan abdominal massage offers various potential benefits, it’s essential for individuals to research and consult with trained professionals. Combining this approach with other medical or therapeutic treatments may also provide a more comprehensive healthcare strategy.
Compare mayan abdominal massage and deep tissue massage
Mayan abdominal massage and deep tissue massage are both manual therapies, but they focus on different areas of the body and have distinct purposes, techniques, and benefits. Here’s a comparative overview:
1. Primary Purpose:
Mayan Abdominal Massage (ATMAT):
Primarily aimed at addressing reproductive and digestive health concerns by repositioning internal organs, especially the uterus, to improve blood, lymph, nerve, and chi flow.
Deep Tissue Massage:
Targets musculoskeletal issues, such as strains and sports injuries. It primarily addresses muscle tension and aims to alleviate pain by manipulating deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues.
2. Technique:
Mayan Abdominal Massage:
A non-invasive external massage technique focusing on the abdominal region and sometimes the lower back.
Gentle, yet firm, massage strokes guide the organs into their optimal positions.
Deep Tissue Massage:
Uses slow, firm strokes and deep finger pressure to release chronic muscle tension.
Might involve friction techniques across the grain of the muscle or stripping long, elongated strokes.
3. Benefits:
Mayan Abdominal Massage:
- Reproductive health improvements: can alleviate symptoms of painful/irregular periods, fertility challenges, and more.
- Digestive health improvements: can help with issues like indigestion, constipation, and bloating.
- Emotional release from trapped traumas in the abdominal region.
Deep Tissue Massage:
- Alleviation of chronic muscle pain and stiffness.
- Improved range of motion in joints.
- Reduction of muscle spasms.
- Breaking up of scar tissue and improving recovery from injuries.
- Relief from repetitive strain injuries.
4. Duration and Frequency:
Mayan Abdominal Massage:
Sessions might be less frequent but can be supplemented with self-care abdominal massage techniques taught by practitioners for daily or regular practice.
Deep Tissue Massage:
Frequency varies based on individual needs, but it can range from once a week for acute issues to once a month for maintenance.
5. Target Audience:
Mayan Abdominal Massage:
Individuals with reproductive health concerns, digestive issues, or those seeking a holistic approach to general well-being.
Deep Tissue Massage:
Athletes, individuals with chronic muscle pain, those recovering from physical injuries, or anyone dealing with prolonged physical stress or tension.
6. Contraindications:
Mayan Abdominal Massage:
Not recommended during menstruation or for certain fertility treatments. Also, pregnant women should consult a qualified practitioner before receiving the massage.
Deep Tissue Massage:
Not recommended for individuals with certain conditions like blood clots, fractures, open wounds, skin infections, or weakened bones (such as from osteoporosis).
In summary, while both Mayan abdominal massage and deep tissue massage offer therapeutic benefits, they target different areas and address unique health and well-being concerns. The best approach would depend on individual needs and health goals.