In which direction should you massage your abdomen to promote digestion?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Generally, massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction promotes digestion. The lower left abdomen typically contains the descending colon, while the lower right abdomen usually houses the ascending colon. Massaging the abdomen from the right side toward the left, which corresponds to a clockwise motion, helps enhance digestion and facilitate the release of intestinal gas. Only when intestinal peristalsis is excessively active would one massage in the opposite direction to slow down motility and alleviate diarrhea.
Generally, massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction helps promote digestion.
In most cases, if indigestion is not particularly severe, symptoms can be improved by gently massaging the abdomen to enhance gastrointestinal motility. The lower left part of the human abdomen typically contains the descending colon, while the lower right side usually houses the ascending colon. Massaging the abdomen in a circular motion from the right side to the left—i.e., in a clockwise direction—helps facilitate digestion and release intestinal gas. Only when intestinal motility is excessively increased would counterclockwise massage be used, to slow down gut movement and alleviate diarrhea.
Although abdominal massage can help relieve discomfort, it's still important to actively treat the underlying cause to promote a faster recovery.
