Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®
Founded in the ancient Maya tradition of abdominal massage by Dr. Rosita Arvigo, this external non-invasive manipulation releases restrictions in abdominal and pelvic organs and tissues. Maya Abdominal Massage as taught by Dr. Arvigo is the legacy of an unbroken chain of knowledge handed down from generation to generation of midwives, healers and shamans in Central America.
Arvigo® Therapy is very effective for supporting a woman’s health from menarche through menopause and beyond. The massage improves organ function by relieving congestion and increasing the flow of blood, lymph, nerve impulses and chi – all essential for good tissue health. By repositioning internal organs that have shifted – such as a prolapsed or tilted uterus – painful or difficult symptoms are relieved.
The Maya believe that a woman’s uterus is her second brain. As the famous Maya shaman Don Elijio Panti said “The uterus is a woman’s center. If her uterus is not in proper position and good health, nothing in her life will be right. She will be as out of balance as her uterus.” I originally studied Arvigo® Therapy to be able to use these ancient techniques with my pregnant midwifery clients, as Maya midwives knew that a well centered uterus allows for a more comfortable mama and a well-positioned baby, which allows for an easier childbirth.
The slow, rhythmic strokes of the massage have a soothing effect on the central nervous system, helping to reduce cortisol levels. As emotional pain can be held in the body, most commonly in the solar plexus and abdominal region, massage here can allow for release of long-held tensions and healing of past traumas.
Arvigo® Therapy is very effective for releasing scar tissue and adhesions from prior surgeries such as appendectomy, cesarean section and hysterectomy, or from infections and endometriosis, all of which can block circulation to and function of other organs. Common digestive disorders respond well to the increased blood circulation and relaxation of the diaphragm and spasmed intestines, thereby improving digestion, assimilation and elimination dramatically. Release of adhesions and scar tissue around the lumbar spine, sacrum and coccyx optimize nerve messaging from this area to the pelvic and abdominal organs.
In addition to the abdominal and lower back massage, the Arvigo® Therapy incorporates soothing castor oil packs, herbal bajos (pelvic steams), Rainforest Remedies tinctures formulated by Dr. Arvigo, fajas and Maya spiritual healing for a comprehensive holistic approach to health and healing.
What to expect during an Arvigo® Therapy session: Your initial session is approximately 2.5 hours long. In this time Abigail will begin by reviewing your intake form, take a detailed health history, and discuss with you your wellness goals. Next, she will apply a warm castor oil pack to your abdomen, followed by an external physical assessment of your pelvic/abdominal organs and lumbar/sacral area. Then she will perform Arvigo Therapy® over abdomen and lumbar/sacral area as you relax her cozy massage table.
The massage is gentle and external; you will be modestly draped throughout. As part of your initial appointment you will also receive instruction on Self Care Massage to enhance the effectiveness of your therapy. Self care abdominal massage provides you a means to take an active part in your own health and healing. The techniques are easy to learn in one session, and best results are achieved when clients apply them at home on a regular basis. Afterwards, you will discuss additional therapies that will support your health based on her findings such as diet/supplements/herbs, castor oil packs, a faja, bajos, or Maya spiritual healing.
Note: Arvigo Therapy® will be modified for 5 days before and during menses, with an IUD, during the first trimester of pregnancy, in the first month postpartum, for 6-12 weeks after abdominal/pelvic surgery and with mesh implants.
“The uterus is a woman’s center. If her uterus is not in proper position and good health, nothing in her life will be right. She will be as out of balance as her uterus.” – Don Elijio Panti, Maya Shaman
Initial appointment 2.5 hours | $250
Follow-up 1.5 hours | $150
For well over a year, I had intolerable pain with my periods. I took the maximum dose of anti-inflammatories. I am a Western physician and found myself completely unhappy with what Western medicine had to offer. My doctor said my uterus was lying to the right and my cervix was difficult to find on exams, but she also said that this had nothing to do with my pain. I thought that Maya abdominal massage might help, and then I found Abigail. The first time I got my period after starting her treatments, I didn’t even know I had started bleeding. I continued to improve and have now had three normal cycles in a row!! On my last doctor’s exam, I was told my uterus was in a completely normal position and that my muscles and tissues felt healthier. Abigail is a true healer. She offers miraculous massage and loving support. ~ J.B., Physician
