How do I prepare for my session?

Please come on an empty stomach: no food for about 2 hours before, though water is OK. Wear something comfortable for the drive home, and give yourself a little quiet time afterward if you can.

Leading up to the session have small sips of water only, so you don't arrive with a full stomach.

What do I wear?

Whatever helps you relax. Most clients undress and rest comfortably under a sheet, and you're always welcome to keep on bottoms or a sports bra if you'd feel more at ease. Only your belly is uncovered.

What should I do after my session?

Skip cold food and cold drinks afterward. Your belly has just softened and opened, and warmth helps it stay relaxed while your body takes in the work. Warm water or tea is perfect. Give yourself a little quiet time if you can.

Who shouldn't book abdominal massage?

Abdominal massage is safe for most people, and your safety always comes first. Please wait, or check in with me (or your doctor) first, if any of these apply to you:

• Menstruating, pregnant, or within 6 weeks postpartum

• You've had abdominal surgery: please wait at least 12 weeks after surgery, plus your surgeon's clearance, before deep abdominal work.

• You're within 6 weeks of a vaginal birth, or about 8–12 weeks after a C-section (with your provider's OK)

• You have a hernia

• You have an abdominal aortic aneurysm

• Living with a pacemaker, active cancer, or history of thrombosis

• You have acute inflammation, an active infection, or a fever

• You have blood clots, or a history of them

• You have a recently placed IUD. With any IUD, please contact me before booking. Some abdominal work isn't done with an IUD, and we'll talk about what's possible.

***Women, you can't receive this work during your period. Please do not schedule within a few days of your period.

What is abdominal massage, and why the belly?

Abdominal massage is slow, deep, hands-on work on your belly, guided by your breath. Your belly is where stress, breath, and emotion meet, and so much of what you carry is held right here at your center. This work helps release the stress, anxiety, and emotion your body has been holding. It also helps detoxify the organs and release trauma stored in the body. We look for the origin, not just the symptom.

It can helps with constipation, bloating and gas, sluggish digestion, pelvic tension and cramping between periods, shallow or restricted breathing, low back and hip tension, and trouble relaxing or sleeping.

What does it feel like?

You'll rest on the table under a sheet. I use slow, deep, direct touch that follows your breath, with gentle breathwork to help it open. This isn't a light, feel-good belly rub. It's powerful, precise work, and it's always done with respect and at your pace. Your belly can feel tender at first, and that's normal. Most people find it deeply calming. The body relaxes so much that the thinking mind shuts off, and the session becomes a journey inward. Many describe it as a detox, releasing toxins held in the organs, physically and emotionally.

Does it hurt?

It's deep work, and your belly can feel tender, especially the first time. That's normal. Pressure follows your breath and feedback. You never need to push through pain. We can slow down or pause anytime.

What is The Unfolding Series?

Many experience lasting changes, often months or years, especially when combined with the restorative body positions and simple strengthening exercises your practitioner will teach you.  While ten sessions may not wholly change your lifelong habits, it will create the foundation for ongoing realignment.

Are emotions welcome?

Absolutely. Your emotions are a natural part of your experience and are always welcome in our sessions. Expressing them is up to you—there’s no expectation or requirement.

While our primary focus is structural bodywork, emotions such as grief, anxiety, joy, or anger will be met with care, respect, and attentive presence. You’re welcome to share, stay quiet, or ask for a pause. Your practitioner will follow your lead and respect your comfort throughout the session.

How do you recommend working together over time?

For ongoing abdominal work, I recommend The Unfolding Series: six sessions combining abdominal massage, bodywork, and emotional release. Working together over time lets us deepen the work, revisit what emerges, and explore the layers of tension and emotional holding at a pace your body can respond to.

Some sessions focus more on physical tension and breathing; others give more space to grief, stress, or whatever is arising in your life. That continuity helps us move beyond an initial release and build greater freedom in how you breathe, feel, and meet life.

How often should I schedule appointments?

With The Unfolding Series, we space them 1–3 weeks apart so your body has time to integrate between visits. Single sessions you can book as needed, whenever your body is asking for it.

Should I start with one session or The Unfolding Series?

Either. Many start with one session, then continue with The Unfolding Series. Not sure? Book a free abdominal consultation.