Although their functions are quite different, the stomach is somewhat similar to the brain. Just as stress wears out the brain and can cause exhaustion, panic attacks and other mental issues can also harm the stomach in many ways.

Stress can cause a buildup of inflammation in the gut, impede digestion, and result in gastrointestinal complications such as diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. However, health experts recommend a two-minute stomach massage before meal to help ameliorate indigestion and relax abdominal muscles for improved digestion.

This easy stomach massage also helps to relax the nervous system, and prepares the gut before mealtime. Here’s how to perform an abdominal massage that allays constipation and indigestion.

1. Lie on your back on a flat surface such as yoga mat with knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Place your right hand on your stomach and inhale deeply three times. Try to release any tension stored in your abdomen.
3. Using your right hand, slowly make wide clockwise circles across your abdomen and its sides.
4. Apply gentle pressure to areas that feel tender. Move from the left to right side of your abdomen and then along the bottom of your rib cage. Repeat until the tight areas of your abdomen feel relaxed. Ensure that you deeply inhale and exhale throughout the massage.
5. Repeat step 1, then switch hands and repeat the entire procedure with your left hand.

This digestive massage is known to be effective for adults and infants to help with digestion complications and gassiness. Give it a try today!