World Championship Massage 2025
Next Championship June 27 – June 29 2025 in Copenhagen
How Massage Benefits the Digestive System - World Championship Massage 2025

World Championship Massage 2025

Next Championship June 27 – June 29 2025 in Copenhagen

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How Massage Benefits the Digestive System

Massage therapy has long been celebrated for its ability to reduce stress, alleviate pain, and promote overall well-being. While most people associate massage with relaxation or relief from muscular tension, few realize that it can also have a profound impact on the digestive system. This article explores how massage therapy supports digestive health, contributing to better gut function, relief from digestive disorders, and enhanced overall wellness.

Understanding the Digestive System

The digestive system is a complex network of organs responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste. Key players include the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Together, these organs perform the critical task of converting food into energy and essential nutrients that the body needs to function.

However, the digestive system can be easily disrupted by factors such as stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms like bloating, constipation, indigestion, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are common complaints that can significantly affect one’s quality of life. This is where massage therapy can offer surprising benefits.

The Connection Between Stress and Digestion

To understand how massage can benefit digestion, it’s essential to recognize the connection between stress and digestive health. The gut is often referred to as the “second brain” due to the presence of the enteric nervous system, which communicates directly with the brain via the vagus nerve. Stress can trigger the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can slow down or alter digestive processes, leading to issues like constipation or diarrhea.

Massage therapy, particularly when targeting areas like the abdomen, back, and lower torso, can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system—the “rest and digest” mode. This shift reduces the production of stress hormones and promotes a calm, relaxed state, which is conducive to healthy digestion. By lowering stress levels, massage helps to normalize gut motility and reduce symptoms of digestive distress.

Types of Massage Beneficial for Digestion

Several types of massage can specifically benefit the digestive system:

1. Abdominal Massage: This technique involves gentle, circular motions applied directly to the abdomen. Abdominal massage can help stimulate peristalsis, the series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. It can also relieve bloating, constipation, and gas by encouraging the movement of waste and reducing tension in the abdominal muscles.

2. Swedish Massage: A full-body Swedish massage promotes relaxation and improves circulation, which can indirectly benefit digestion. By reducing overall stress and improving blood flow to the digestive organs, this type of massage supports more efficient nutrient absorption and waste elimination.

3. Reflexology: This form of massage involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to different organs, including those of the digestive system. Reflexology can help balance the body’s energy flow, reduce stress, and stimulate digestive function.

4. Shiatsu: A Japanese form of massage that uses finger pressure on specific acupressure points, Shiatsu is believed to balance the flow of energy (Qi) in the body. When applied to points related to the digestive system, Shiatsu can relieve symptoms like indigestion, bloating, and constipation.

Specific Digestive Benefits of Massage

1. Improved Digestion and Nutrient Absorption

Massage therapy can enhance the body’s ability to digest food and absorb nutrients. By improving circulation and stimulating the digestive organs, massage ensures that blood flow is optimal, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to these organs, thus enhancing their function.

2. Relief from Constipation

Abdominal massage, in particular, is highly effective in relieving constipation. By stimulating the muscles in the intestinal walls, massage can help move stool through the colon, reducing the discomfort associated with constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.

3. Reduction of Bloating and Gas

Bloating and gas are often the result of trapped air in the digestive tract. Massage can help to alleviate these symptoms by encouraging the release of gas and reducing the tension in the abdominal muscles. Gentle abdominal massage can also help to break down gas bubbles, making them easier to pass.

4. Support for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and is often triggered by stress. Massage therapy, by reducing stress and promoting relaxation, can help to manage IBS symptoms. Techniques like abdominal massage and reflexology can also soothe the gut and regulate bowel function, providing relief from pain and discomfort.

Incorporating Massage into Your Wellness Routine

To reap the digestive benefits of massage, consistency is key. Regular sessions with a professional massage therapist can help maintain digestive health, especially for those who suffer from chronic digestive issues. However, self-massage techniques, such as gently massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction, can also be effective for daily digestive support.

In addition to massage, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating regular physical activity can further support digestive health. Combining these practices with massage therapy creates a holistic approach to wellness that not only addresses digestive concerns but also enhances overall physical and mental well-being.

Conclusion

Massage therapy offers more than just relaxation—it can be a powerful tool for improving digestive health. Whether through direct stimulation of the digestive organs or by reducing stress and promoting relaxation, massage helps to keep the digestive system functioning smoothly. For those looking to support their gut health naturally, massage provides a therapeutic and enjoyable solution that contributes to a healthier, happier life. 

  • Article by Jeppe Tengbjerg

Read another article about the benefits of massage on the Endocrine System here or this article about about the benefits of massage on the nervous system.

Also Toksen and Bamboo massage can help the How Massage Benefits the Digestive System – here given by IMA Teacher Christina Blei

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Have you seen what our particpants have to say?

Sami StressadeSami Stressade
10:45 20 Sep 24
The International Massage World Championships (IMA) in Copenhagen was an extraordinary experience. It provided a unique platform to compete with the best massage therapists in the world and learn advanced techniques at the highest level.The professional exchange, the valuable feedback from the jury and the inspiring atmosphere have significantly expanded my skills. An absolute recommendation for anyone who wants to perfect their art and make international connections.A special thank you goes to Jeppe Tengbjerg, founder and CEO of the International Massage Association and organizer of the World Championships in Massage. Without his vision and commitment, this outstanding event would not have been possible.
Amanda J M.Amanda J M.
03:52 18 Sep 24
Thank you very much for the lessons that IMA has shared with the public... this knowledge will forever be useful for me to grow even more.. hugs and kisses 💆‍♂️🌎🕊🙏😇
semenuk-t Tanyasemenuk-t Tanya
14:45 25 Aug 24
Very interesting, informative. A colossal experience. Exchange of skills and techniques. Friendly atmosphere....❤️❤️❤️It is worth taking part in order to grow and become better.
I have attended the IMA World massage Champs since 2017, it’s a must in the June calendar each year. Go visit or compete!! Copenhagen is a great City break aswell.
Tereze BelkovaTereze Belkova
19:06 24 Apr 24
An excellent school where you can not only learn different massage techniques, but also improve your skills. A place that brings together massage professionals from all over the world by organising the World Massage Championships in Denmark.
Michael PedersenMichael Pedersen
21:24 05 Mar 24
Huge praise for holding dm in massage 2024.Warm atmosphere, good energy and super well organised.A school that is passionate about giving students the best possible education.Can only warmly recommend the school.
Carsten AnderslundCarsten Anderslund
20:12 05 Mar 24
Carl NewburyCarl Newbury
11:28 29 Feb 24
I have been attending Jeppe's events in Copenhagen since 2017. The World Championship in Massage is the highlight of my year networking with massage therapists from all over the World. Well Done Jeppe
Victoria BilousovaVictoria Bilousova
12:54 07 Feb 24
Thank you so much for an amazing World Massage Championship organized in a high level! A lot of new friends and inspiration I found there😇
It was with great pleasure to teach at your school in Denmark, I experienced a good atmosfeer, an interesting class and you as host/teacher mr. Jeppe Tengbjerg.Also thank you for the colaboration to teach at my school in Lelystad the Netherlands last year, it is of great interest to learn from each other and I welcome you again, this year in september 2024.SoeReiMas Courses & CoachingLelystad the Netherlands
Chutima HälgChutima Hälg
00:47 07 Feb 24
I recently had the pleasure of attending a massage seminar jointly organized by IMA Academy and Chiida Academy, and I must say it was a truly enriching experience. The seminar, led by a professional instructor, was a perfect blend of theory and practice, offering valuable insights into the art of massage therapy. The theoretical aspects covered were comprehensive and informative, providing a solid foundation of knowledge for all participants. From anatomy and physiology to various massage techniques and their applications, every aspect was explained with clarity and depth. It was evident that the instructor was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about imparting their expertise to the students. What truly stood out about this seminar was the emphasis on hands-on practice. Participants were given ample opportunities to apply the theoretical concepts they had learned in a supportive and nurturing environment. The instructor's guidance and feedback were invaluable in honing our skills and techniques. Moreover, I was impressed by the caring attitude and thoughtfulness shown towards the students throughout the seminar. From providing necessary materials to addressing individual queries and concerns, the organizers ensured that everyone felt valued and supported. I would like to extend my gratitude to Mr. Jeppe Tengbjerg for his exceptional leadership in making this seminar a resounding success. His expertise, patience, and genuine dedication to the art of massage therapy were truly inspiring.In conclusion, the collaborative effort between IMA Academy and Chiida Academy in presenting this massage seminar was commendable. It was a rewarding experience that left me feeling empowered and equipped with valuable knowledge and skills. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of massage therapy or embark on a career in this field.
Corpore VitalCorpore Vital
16:13 06 Feb 24
Professionalism and education at the highest level. The students are very attentive and involved in the way the information is conveyed and because there is a lot of practice, the course becomes even more exciting. Congratulations for the interactive way in which you transmit the information.
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