Benefits of breast massage 

Breasts deserve their own specialised massage with specific essential oils that respect the integrity of the breast as a mammary gland with jobs to do. Of course there might be a time when the breasts are responsible for milk production and secretion during lactation. Otherwise, the breast is a pocket of skin with adipose tissue that is a type of connective tissue that stores energy in the form of fat, provides insulation and cushioning. The breasts contain estrogen receptors, making them sensitive to hormonal changes. When we understand the complex interactions between hormones, breast tissue and overall health, we can wisely start to care for our breasts with self massage and aromatherapy blends that respect the physiological complexity of breast tissue. Certain essential oils are considered precursors for estrogen or may have a phyto-estrogenic effect meaning they may mimic or interact with estrogen in the body. The oil’s phyto-oestrogenic constituents help the body regulate its own hormonal activity within the breast. Such oils include: geranium, clary sage, ylang-ylang, lemongrass. Other oils like fennel, anise or fenugreek are galactogogues that promote milk flow in nursing mothers and sage dries up excess bodily fluids including milk, sweat and menstrual fluid. We can take our pick for what is appropriate.

The skin on the breasts is actually thinner and more delicate compared to other areas of the body. Breast skin is estimated to be around 1-2 mm thick in contrast to the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet, which can be up to 4-5 mm thick. The skin on the breasts is also more sensitive and has a higher concentration of nerve endings, which can make it more prone to sensitivity and tenderness. Additionally, delicate breast skin is more prone to stretching and sagging due to hormonal changes, pregnancy and breastfeeding, which can lead to changes in the skin's texture and appearance. It is important to take good care of the skin on the breasts by keeping it moisturised, avoiding harsh chemicals and regularly massaging them with emollient, protective essential oils diluted in nourishing cold pressed oils. In this way, stretch-marks can be diminished and prevented, while increasing the skin’s elasticity.

Breast massage is integral to feminine care

Regular massage of our own breasts is a smart pre-emptive practice to detect any abnormalities and certainly for early detection of breast cancer, helping women become more aware of their breast tissue. Massage helps to stimulate the lymphatic system, which can help to reduce swelling and promote healthy breast tissue. Breast tissue extends its little wing to the upper and outer quadrant of our chest to our armpit, right into the area of our vital lymph nodes for drainage. Coincidentally this can be the area where most cancers are found. Lymphatic drainage requires movement and so massage is a perfect way to enhance proper lymphatic drainage of the breasts and chest area and to improve blood flow and circulation.

Massaging the breasts can help to regulate hormones, which can be beneficial for women experiencing menstrual cramps, PMS and menopause symptoms while also relieving associated breast pain and tenderness. Massaging the breasts can help to stimulate milk production and relieve engorgement during breastfeeding. Whether it’s an excess of fluid or related to the pectoral muscles under the breasts, massage can help alleviate the tension, discomfort or soreness. Gentle aromatherapy massage can help to reduce scar tissue and promote healing after breast surgery. All breasts are beautiful and self-massage is special way to honour and accept them just as they are.

Focus on abdominal massage

Massaging the abdomen is quite different to massaging the general musculoskeletal system, because this is the location of the body’s soft tissues, vital organs and the digestive system that is central to good health. Using specialised massage oil blends is imperative to reduce friction; we can press more deeply in some areas if suitable too. Massaging the abdomen can help calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones. It promotes emotional release; the abdomen is often referred to as the "second brain" and massaging this area can help release emotional blockages and tension. Abdominal massage stimulates the immune system, building resilience.

Abdominal massage can help stimulate and nourish the organs in the abdominal cavity, including the liver, kidneys, and intestines as well as help stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting the removal of toxins and waste products. We can be specific to some organs like massaging the liver that is located just under the ribs on the upper-right side of the abdomen. If there are gallbladder problems, we can massage this area just below the ribs in a circular motion. Using effective hepatic oils such as ginger, rosemary, lemon, peppermint and fennel can be most advantageous especially when one is trying to hasten detoxification in the body. Improving digestion is a key outcome of regular abdominal massage. Abdominal massage can help stimulate digestive enzymes, relieve constipation and reduce symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Breathe deeply when massaging to encourage relaxation and digestion. Use carminative essential oils like peppermint, fennel or lemongrass in a tummy rub blend to ease bloat and discomfort. Tinderbox's Tummy Calm is perfect for this application. 

Hands on our belly

Start by rubbing the hands together to generate warmth; this helps relax the abdominal muscles and prepares the area for massage. Firstly, we release tension in the diaphragm and enhance relaxation by placing one hand just below the rib cage and the other on the upper abdomen. We apply gentle pressure and hold for a few seconds while taking slow deep breaths. Using the pads of the fingers, we begin massaging in a clockwise circular motion around the navel that will focus on the small intestine. Use gentle pressure, enough to feel the skin and underlying tissues but not too firm to cause discomfort. For the targeting the stomach, we massage the upper middle abdominal area, just below the ribs, in a circular motion. Moving the hands slowly outward in a radial pattern from the centre navel area towards the sides of the abdomen follows the path of the large intestine. This helps promote peristalsis - the wave-like contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Feeling the tone of our organs

One of the real gems of self-massage is the development of interoception, which is perception or awareness of the physiological condition of the body. It is associated with the autonomic nervous system and autonomic motor control. This means that we start to notice the functions of the body, like breath, heartbeat, circulation and digestion that happen unconsciously or automatically by default.  Normally these functions occur under the radar of our consciousness. It is invaluable to be able to feel how they are slowed and become calmer in our deeply relaxed state.

Within the abdominal cavity, our organs each harbour their own internalised patterns of unresolved emotional trauma. Each organ reflects the deep emotional imprints we carry within, contributing to the intricate tapestry of our physical and emotional well-being. In time we start to locate and feel the tone of our organs determining their physical vitality but also the emotional burden they carry in their tissue. By directing the laser focus of our attention and sensory awareness, we can gently massage these organ areas with specific essential oils to catalyse a shift, freeing us from the patterns that hold us back from true peace.

Loneliness or rejection may wound the heart and we can use rose and neroli to catalyse release. For the lungs, niaouli, eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils can help us let go of grief; cypress and carrot seed support the liver in processing anger; ginger, orange and chamomile soothe the stomach, easing worry. The pancreas responds well to juniper and lemon, aiding in the release of anxiety, while the kidneys work well with rosemary, cedarwood and black pepper to dispel fears. Basil, fennel and cypress assuage the spleen that holds on to habits of overthinking and obsessing. Rose, lavender and frankincense comfort and balance the uterus to restore emotional balance and self-esteem.

Belly Button - Linked to our Lineage

Massaging the marma point located inside the belly button (also known as Nabhi Marma in Ayurvedic tradition) offers many benefits for digestive health by balancing the digestive fire (Agni), reducing bloating, constipation, and indigestion. It enhances blood and lymphatic circulation, helping in the detoxification process and has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety. The belly button point is connected to the Manipura (solar plexus) chakra, which governs personal power, self-esteem and transformation. Stimulating this point with massage can help balance and activate this energy centre to help release stored emotions.

The umbilical cord, which connects a foetus to the mother, is not only a conduit for physical nourishment but also for emotional and energetic exchange. The belly button, or umbilicus, holds all our memories and patterns inherited from our mother and by extension, to our ancestry and lineage. Emotions and experiences, especially those from early childhood and in utero, are imprinted and stored in the navel, which is why massaging this area can be such a powerful practice to connect with their inner selves and familial roots.

Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Abdominal massage can help ease menstrual cramps, bloating, and other PMS symptoms by improving blood flow and circulation, which can help to reduce inflammation, congestion and relieve cramping. Abdominal massage can help to normalise menstrual flow by promoting a healthier balance within the reproductive organs.

Use these essential oils: geranium, bergamot, sandalwood, lavender, cypress, clary-sage, coriander, chamomile, rose.

Pregnancy belly rub

Massaging the pregnant belly is such a beautiful thing to do for an expectant mother who wants to caress and communicate with her baby in an affectionate, loving and tactile way. Self-massage allows the mother to connect with her baby and feel more aware of its movements and presence. Of course the unborn babe will perceive and be receptive to this kind of prenatal attention and the bond between mother and baby will be strengthened in all the best ways. Belly massage can help the mother feel more comfortable, confident and empowered throughout her pregnancy journey. Massage stimulates the release of serotonin and hormones like oxytocin and dopamine, promoting feelings of happiness and bonding. This promotes relaxation and stress reduction, to help calm the expectant mother and helps her sleep more soundly.

Sometimes the woman can experience nausea and digestive sensitivities and massage most helpfully stimulates digestion, reduces constipation and alleviates bloating. Rhythmic belly massage can alleviate any cramps, spasms or pain in the abdomen and ease the lower back and hips. Massage can help stimulate the baby's growth and development by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the placenta. Daily belly massage can even help the baby move into a more optimal position for birth, reducing the risk of complications. Pregnant belly massage helps relax the uterine muscles preparing the body for labour to make delivery easier.

Aromatherapy is a perfect way to safely and efficaciously soothe the little being yet to be born. Choose calming, essential oils like chamomile, lavender, tangerine, petitgrain, sandalwood, mandarin or neroli. Add these essential oils to richly emollient base oil perhaps calendula infused oil to help prevent stretch marks and increase the stretched skin’s elasticity. The same blend may be used after birth to help get the distended abdominal skin back into firm condition.

Perineum massage

Perineal massage before birth is recommended to prepare the perineum, the area between the vagina and anus, for the stretching and pressure it will experience during childbirth. Massaging the perineum with specific safe and nourishing plant oils helps to soften and stretch the tissues, increasing elasticity. This reduces the likelihood of tearing the perineum or the need for the surgical intervention of an episiotomy, a cut made at the opening of the vagina during childbirth to aid a difficult delivery. Perineal massage can lead to a more relaxed childbirth experience because women feel more comfortable and less anxious about potential damage during labour.

Women who massage the perineum become more aware of the sensations in that area, which can help to relax and work with the body's natural processes during childbirth. Many women experience faster healing and less discomfort in the postpartum period compared to those who did not. Use essential oils lavender, patchouli, chamomile, tangerine, neroli in a quality carrier oil.

Stay tuned for part four...

Relevant Tinderbox products: Beautiful Breast Massage Oil, Tummy Calm, Woman's Massage Oil, Wise Woman's Massage Oil, Pregnancy Belly Rub, Childbirth Massage Oil