I am trained in the Arvigo Techniques of Mayan Therapy®.
The foundation of Abdominal Therapy is an external, non-invasive, abdominal massage combined with other supportive natural therapies.
These techniques were brought together by Dr Rosita Arvigo during her lifelong work as a healer and apprentice to the the last great Shaman of Belize, Don Elijio Panti. She combined his teachings, and those of traditional Mayan midwives, with a Western scientific understanding of the body to create The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®.
The massage itself optimises the position and functioning of the uterus, the bladder, the ovaries and the digestive organs by relaxing and toning internal structures. If the uterus is out of its optimum position, women can experience various symptoms of dis-ease including menstrual pain, infection, lower back pain, fertility issues, painful sex, and various other challenges.
Arvigo® restores the flow of blood, lymph and chi to and from these organs and promotes nervous innovation of these organs. The aim of Arvigo® is really to support the body to maintain its natural, healthy balance.
The techniques are particularly effective for gynaecological problems, digestive problems, fertility and post natal support and menstrual distress.
What happens during a session?
Education, understanding and self-help are particularly important in Arvigo® Therapy An initial session consists of a detailed consultation about various aspects of the clients life and issues. We will spend some time learning self-care massage to be carried out at home in between sessions.
The treatment itself focuses on the upper and lower abdomen. This is usually carried out fully clothed on a mat using oil. The client simply exposes the abdomen and the clothes are protected from the oil with towels and sarongs.
We may also discuss various supporting modalities which may include vaginal steams, wearing of a faja (a traditional lower abdomen supportive wrap), castor oil packs, guided meditations and lifestyle education.
An initial session takes 2 hours. Depending on the individual case, it is usually recommended to have 3 -6 treatments, one month apart. Some conditions (eg prolapse) may require longer.
Subsequent treatments after the intake session are 1.5 hours
I often combine Arvigo® Therapy with the other modalities that I offer, depending on the wishes of the client and the condition being addressed.
Who is Abdominal Massage suitable for?
The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy® are offered as a supportive modality to enhance health and wellness, and are not meant as an entire approach to health care. If you have any serious medical conditions, please consult your health care provider first.
For Women:
- fertility challenges
- preparation for pregnancy
- endometriosis support
- miscarriage/ termination support
- uterine prolapse support
- pelvic pain
- menstrual pain and discomfort
- urinary leakage or incontinence
- vaginal discomfort with menopause/ post menopause
- dyspareunia (painful sex), vaginismus, vaginal pain
- impact trauma
- fibroids and polyps
- chronic bladder or vaginal infection
For Men:
- Early stages of prostate swelling
- Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy (BPH)
- Prostatitis (mild)
- Fertility Challenges
- Erectile Dysfunction
For Fertility:
- Supports pre-conception by strengthening uterine ligaments, supporting overall
health of reproductive organs - Enhances ovarian function
- Relaxation to clients
- Improves male sperm counts
For Everyone:
- Headaches/migraines
- Digestive Disorders
- Low energy
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Gastro Esophogeal Reflux (GERD)
- Crohn’s Disease
- Chronic constipation
- Low Back ache
- Chronic indigestion or heartburn
- Gastritis
- Restricted breathing due to tension
Can I come to an appointment if I am menstruating?
I do not carry out the lower abdominal massage whilst women are menstruating.
For women trying to conceive I recommend making an appointment between days 4 – 13 of your cycle (i.e. not after ovulation or when you are menstruating), and for women with any other issues I recommend making an appointment between days 4 – 27 of your cycle (i.e. not when you are menstruating).
Can I receive a treatment if I am pregnant?
I do not carry out any massage at all in the first 3 months of pregnancy.
During the 2nd and 3rd trimester, Arvigo® techniques can be applied in order to encourage optimal uterine position, strengthen the uterus, facilitate nerve and lymph system function, promote blood supply to provide oxygen and nutrients and to remove toxins. Uterine ligaments and nourished and work to support their role in uterine positioning.
Clients who receive regular Arvigo® sessions and apply the self-care experience more efficient labour and birth with less need for surgical interventions.