11/24/2025
‘Tis the season for feeling bloated and off schedule…
If you feel like things aren’t moving how they typically should, abdominal massage can help.
Either laying down with knees bent or in a seated position where the belly is relaxed, give this a try! Note: lotion feels nice but isn’t required.
1️⃣ Starting at the RIGHT hip bone, do upward sweeps or little circles 5-6 times. This is the “I”.
2️⃣Next, start at the RIGHT with an upward sweep, then move ACROSS at the upper abs. Same thing, sweeps or little circles a few times. This is the “L”
Side note: you might hear some gurgles, and if you do that’s a good thing!
3️⃣ Finally, start at the RIGHT with an upward sweep, move ACROSS at the upper abs, then move down at the LEFT side to the hip bone a few times. This is the “U”.
The direction of this is very important, because we want things moving out 💩 and the descending colon (the out path) is on the left 🚪
I also find that for bloating in particular, end with some sweeps from top to bottom across the belly is also helpful.
Final note: wear comfy pants and let that belly relax 🍗🥔🥦🍰
Can this be performed if you have a bun in the oven? Typically yes if you work around the baby bump, but check with your provider.
Disclaimer: we are pelvic floor therapists but not YOUR pelvic floor therapist. This is general advice, not medical, and does not replace medical guidance.
Any questions? Comment below and make sure to save this for later this week.
