Visceral manipulation is a type of bodywork that involves massaging and manipulating deep tissue to improve the functioning of organs in the abdominal cavity. It can increase circulation, remove adhesions, relieve physical and mental stress, and strengthen the body’s resistance to disease. The therapy has been practiced for centuries and is considered an alternative therapy. It is similar to a deep tissue massage and is performed by various professionals. The therapy induces the release of serotonin, improves mood, and has other reported benefits.
Visceral manipulation is the process of massaging and manipulating deep tissue to improve the functioning of the various organs in the abdominal cavity. There are several reasons why people choose to engage in this type of bodywork. Visceral manipulation is believed to increase circulation to affected parts of the body and is also used to remove adhesions that can restrict movement and cause discomfort. These adhesions often cause hypertonicity or increased tension in the affected area of the body. It is also believed that massaging the visceral organs helps relieve physical and mental stress and strengthen the body’s resistance to disease.
The viscera, or internal organs, typically included in this type of bodywork are those located in the abdominal cavity. These include the heart, liver, and small and large intestines.
Visceral manipulation has been a part of medical treatment since the beginning of time. There are ancient accounts of manipulation of the abdominal cavity as a treatment for disease or poor health. Visceral manipulation has been practiced for over 200 years in Tibet. In the late 1800s, visceral manipulation was used extensively by physicians as a treatment for many diseases. The practice fell out of favor as advances were made in other medical techniques. In 1985, however, the French osteopath Jean-Pierre Barral, devotee of the practice, brought it to the United States. Today visceral manipulation, like many other types of bodywork, is considered an alternative therapy.
Visceral manipulation is occasionally performed by an osteopath or physician, but just as often, a massage therapist, chiropractor, or physical therapist will offer this service. Regardless of who you visit for bodywork, you should know what to expect. There is a strict “no pain” rule surrounding this therapy. It is important to communicate with your therapist during the procedure if you feel any discomfort.
The process is similar to a deep tissue massage. For your session, you will either sit in a chair or lay down on a table. The therapist will target any restrictions or blocked areas through massage and manipulation, which challenge your range of motion. During the session, which typically lasts 45 minutes, you will feel stress leave your body and a greater sense of calm.
Even those who don’t believe they have adhesions can benefit from visceral manipulation. Many bodywork experts believe that visceral manipulation induces the release of the “feel good” hormone serotonin. This improves mood and relieves tension. Other reported benefits of the therapy are decreased healing times, increased immunity and, for men, increased virility.
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