The Heart of My Practice
The abdomen holds many of the body's vital systems, yet it is one of the most overlooked areas in massage therapy. This is gentle, focused support for the abdomen and pelvis, rooted in Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Massage®.
Whether you arrive with a specific concern or simply a sense that this part of your body is asking for care, you are welcome here. Together we will move slowly, with attention and intention.
Whether you arrive with a specific concern or simply a sense that this part of your body is asking for care, you are welcome here. Together we will move slowly, with attention and intention.
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Gentle, focused support for the bodyPeople come to this work for all kinds of reasons, some with a specific concern, others simply sensing their body is asking for care. You might recognize yourself in some of these:
Whatever brings you here is valid, and we will shape each session around your needs. |
The NAVEL Principle
In Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®, the abdomen is viewed as a central hub for several important systems within the body. Treatment is designed to encourage healthy circulation and movement within these systems while supporting the tissues of the abdomen, pelvis, and surrounding structures.
NNerve |
AArterial |
VVenous |
EEnergy |
LLymph |
Areas of Focus
Meeting your body where it is
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Digestive & Gut Support Digestive concerns can influence comfort, energy, stress levels, and overall wellbeing. Therapeutic abdominal massage works with the tissues of the abdomen to encourage mobility, circulation, and awareness throughout the digestive system. This approach may be supportive for those experiencing:
Treatment focuses on creating ease within the tissues while supporting overall digestive function and nervous system regulation. |
Pelvic & Menstrual Health Many people carry tension, discomfort, and restriction throughout the abdomen and pelvis without realizing the impact it can have on daily life. This treatment focuses on supporting pelvic circulation, tissue mobility, and overall comfort while creating a greater sense of connection to the menstrual cycle and pelvic region. This may be supportive for those experiencing:
Treatment is adapted to your unique experience and goals, with an emphasis on comfort, education, and whole body support. |
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Fertility & Preconception Preparing for conception often involves caring for the body as a whole. Therapeutic abdominal massage offers a nurturing space to connect with your body while supporting the foundations of reproductive health during the preconception phase. This treatment may support:
Sessions are individualized and may be incorporated alongside other healthcare providers as part of a broader support team. |
Post-surgical & Scar Recovery Abdominal surgery can influence the way tissues move and recover long after initial healing. This treatment offers gentle, informed care after procedures such as cesarean birth, hysterectomy, laparoscopic surgery, or abdominal reconstruction. Treatment may focus on:
All treatment is adjusted according to healing stage, individual comfort, and recommendations from your healthcare team. |
Holistic Abdominal Massage
Sometimes there is no single concern to address. Instead, there is a sense that the body is asking for attention, softness, or support. This treatment takes a broader approach to abdominal care, combining therapeutic abdominal work with nervous system support and whole body awareness.
Sessions may be beneficial for those seeking:
This is a gentle, integrative treatment that creates space for both therapeutic change and meaningful rest.
Sometimes there is no single concern to address. Instead, there is a sense that the body is asking for attention, softness, or support. This treatment takes a broader approach to abdominal care, combining therapeutic abdominal work with nervous system support and whole body awareness.
Sessions may be beneficial for those seeking:
- Stress relief
- Nervous system regulation
- Relief from abdominal holding patterns
- Greater connection with their core and breath
- Deep rest and restoration
This is a gentle, integrative treatment that creates space for both therapeutic change and meaningful rest.
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What to Expect
Comfort & consent, alwaysYour initial Therapeutic Abdominal Massage is 90 minutes and includes a comprehensive intake and exploration of your personal health story, an assessment, the treatment itself, and guidance you can take home.
Sessions work with the abdomen and the areas closely connected to it. Treatment involves external massage of your entire back, glutes, and sacrum alongside the abdomen. Working these areas systematically optimizes circulation throughout the body's systems, an approach known as NAVEL: Nerve, Arterial and Venous blood, Energy, and Lymph. Professional draping is used at all times, and consent is ongoing. You are always welcome to ask questions, request adjustments, or pause at any point. Follow-up treatments can be booked as 75 or 60 minute sessions. |
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Preparing for your visit
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Melissa with Dr. Rosita Arvigo, post Abdominal Therapy Training
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Rooted in tradition, informed by scienceMy Therapeutic Abdominal Massage work is rooted in the Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®, a holistic approach to reproductive and digestive wellness that supports and rejuvenates the abdomen, womb, and pelvic bowl. Through external massage of the abdomen, back, glutes, and sacrum, this work is intended to support the mobility of the abdominal and pelvic tissues while enhancing the flow of blood, lymph, and energy and supporting healthy nerve function.
These techniques were developed by Dr. Rosita Arvigo following a 13-year apprenticeship with Maya healer Don Elijio Panti, together with her doctoral training in naprapathy, extensive anatomical study, and decades of clinical practice. Some of the methods trace back to ancient Maya abdominal massage. I had the privilege of training directly with Dr. Arvigo, and it remains some of the most meaningful work I offer: a chance to reconnect with the abdomen, an often-overlooked part of the body, while supporting physical and emotional well-being. I share this work with deep respect for its lineage and for the teachers who have helped preserve and pass these traditions forward. |
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Learn to care for yourself between sessionsI also offer appointments where I teach you how to do your own abdominal massage at home. It is a gentle, empowering way to maintain the benefits of treatment and stay connected to your body between visits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does it feel like? Does abdominal massage hurt?
It should not hurt. Most people have never experienced abdominal massage and may notice some tenderness or unfamiliar sensations at first.
How many sessions will I need?
This will be different for each person and depends on what you're seeking support with.
Abdominal massage is generally most effective when approached as a series of treatments rather than a single session.
As a general recommendation, I suggest starting with three treatments spaced two to three weeks apart, and reassessing from there. Some people choose to continue with monthly maintenance treatments, while others choose to return as needed.
* I also offer appointments where I can teach you how to do your own abdominal massage at home, which can be helpful for maintenance between sessions.
Abdominal massage is generally most effective when approached as a series of treatments rather than a single session.
As a general recommendation, I suggest starting with three treatments spaced two to three weeks apart, and reassessing from there. Some people choose to continue with monthly maintenance treatments, while others choose to return as needed.
* I also offer appointments where I can teach you how to do your own abdominal massage at home, which can be helpful for maintenance between sessions.
Can I still have Therapeutic Abdominal Massage if I have an IUD?
Yes. You can still receive Therapeutic Abdominal Massage with an IUD in place. However, if you are seeking support for uterine concerns, treatment options may be more limited because direct techniques over the uterus are avoided when an IUD is present.
What is the best time in my cycle for a session?
The ideal time for treatment is often between the end of menstruation and ovulation, though timing depends on your goals and individual circumstances.
For fertility support, sessions are generally recommended between the end of menstruation and ovulation. We can discuss your cycle and goals at the end of your initial appointment and develop a treatment plan together.
For fertility support, sessions are generally recommended between the end of menstruation and ovulation. We can discuss your cycle and goals at the end of your initial appointment and develop a treatment plan together.
Can I receive treatment during my period?
Yes. Menstruation is not a contraindication for abdominal massage. However, many people experience increased sensitivity or discomfort in their abdomen around moon time and may prefer to receive treatment at another point in their cycle. Deeper uterine work may also feel less comfortable during menstruation.
What will I be wearing during treatment?
You will be fully draped throughout the session and are welcome to undress to your comfort level. There is no right or wrong choice. Your comfort, preferences, and informed consent guide the session.
Can Therapeutic Abdominal Massage help with IUI or IVF?
Yes. Therapeutic Abdominal Massage can support all paths to conception, including IUI and IVF. Regular professional treatments and self-care abdominal massage (YAM) may help support circulation, relaxation, and a greater sense of connection with your body during the fertility journey. Nurturing touch and relaxation can help you settle into the process and reduce stress, whatever your path to conception looks like.
Do I need to know exactly why I want an abdominal massage before booking?
Not at all. Many people feel drawn to explore this area of their body, are curious about abdominal work, or sense tension and disconnection that they cannot quite put into words. We can discuss your goals together and determine whether this approach feels like a good fit for you.
I had an amazing session with Melissa Stewart and left completely relaxed, rebalanced, and connected to my body than I have in a long time. The combination of massage and craniosacral was the best choice for what I needed. The massage was both therapeutic and soothing, and the craniosacral work was subtle but incredibly powerful and left me with a deep sense of calm and clarity. Melissa has a very intuitive touch and a calming, professional presence and really care about your well-being. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for deep, holistic healing whether you are dealing with stress or physical pain or need to just need to reset. I will definitely be returning! Thank you! Much gratitude!
Linda R., Google Review