Uncovering the Benefits of Chi Nei Tsang for Digestive Health

Dr. Jacintha "Jaz" Roemer
Aug 31
5 min read

Updated: Nov 16

Woman receiving a relaxing Chi Nei Tsang massage

✨ What Is Chi Nei Tsang?

Chi Nei Tsang (pronounced “chee-nay-song”) is an ancient Taoist healing technique that focuses on the belly — the center of digestion, detoxification, and emotional processing. The name translates to “internal organs chi massage.”

Unlike a spa massage, Chi Nei Tsang:

Works directly on the abdomen
Improves organ function and circulation
Balances energy (chi) throughout the body
Helps release emotional tension stored in the gut

🌱 What Does Chi Nei Tsang Treat?

Chi Nei Tsang is especially supportive for digestive and stress-related conditions, including:

Bloating, constipation, and sluggish digestion
IBS and chronic gut imbalance
Liver congestion and detox support
Postpartum abdominal healing
Anxiety and stress stored in the belly
Low energy, fatigue, or feeling “stuck”

Many clients notice not only improved digestion but also better mood, sleep, and overall vitality.

🏯 Where Does Chi Nei Tsang Come From?

Chi Nei Tsang was popularized in the 1980s by Master Mantak Chia of the Universal Healing Tao system. He believed that Taoist abdominal massage and Qigong practices should be shared widely to help people maintain their health at home. Today, Chi Nei Tsang is practiced globally in clinics, wellness centers, and retreats. It is increasingly recognized for its unique ability to address both physical and emotional wellness.

💡 The Benefits of Chi Nei Tsang

For Digestion

Stimulates peristalsis (natural intestinal movement)
Reduces bloating and trapped gas
Supports liver and pancreas function
Helps balance the gut microbiome

For Detox & Circulation

Encourages lymphatic drainage
Releases stored toxins from abdominal organs
Improves blood flow to the digestive system

For Emotional Wellness

Releases emotions stored in the gut (anger, fear, grief)
Activates the parasympathetic “rest & digest” state
Promotes calmness, grounding, and mental clarity

For Energy & Vitality

Clears stagnant chi
Boosts overall vitality and resilience

Gentle pressure on the abdomen for belly massage

🛋 What to Expect in a Session

A typical session lasts 45–60 minutes. Here’s what you’ll experience in my San Diego clinic:

Intake & Discussion → We’ll review your digestive health, stress levels, and goals.
Comfortable Setup → You’ll lie on a massage table, draped to reveal only your abdomen.
Gentle Hands-On Work → I’ll use specific abdominal massage techniques to locate and release blockages.
Breath & Visualization → You’ll be guided in deep breathing and imagery to support the process.
Closing & Aftercare → You’ll leave feeling lighter, calmer, and more grounded — often with digestion already more active.

Clients frequently describe the experience as “nourishing” and “transformative.”

⚠️ Safety & Contraindications

Chi Nei Tsang is safe for most people, but may not be recommended if you:

Are pregnant (unless cleared by a provider)
Have had recent abdominal surgery (<3 months)
Have an active infection, hernia, or severe illness

Always share your full health history with your practitioner.

🧘 Self-Care Between Sessions

To extend the benefits of Chi Nei Tsang:

Gentle Self-Massage → Rub your belly in a slow, clockwise circle daily.
Breathing Practice → Place your hands on your belly and take 10 deep breaths before meals.
Warm Foods & Drinks → Support digestion with soups, teas, and cooked vegetables.
Hydrate → Drink water after sessions to flush out toxins.

📌 Ready to Heal Your Belly and Reset Your Digestion?

Experience the power of Chi Nei Tsang for yourself — and take control of your digestive health.

💆‍♀️ Book an in-person Chi Nei Tsang session at our San Diego clinic for hands-on relief and deep abdominal healing.

📚 Prefer to learn at home? Join my Buddha Belly Program, where I’ll teach you self-massage techniques to support your digestion daily.

📩 Not ready to commit? Download your free Beat the Bloat Guide or 3-Day Gut Reset and start feeling lighter, calmer, and more energized right away.

➡️ Book Your Session today!

❓ FAQ

1. What is Chi Nei Tsang massage?

Chi Nei Tsang is a Taoist abdominal massage that detoxifies the organs, improves digestion, and releases emotional tension stored in the belly.

2. Can Chi Nei Tsang help with bloating or constipation?

Yes. It stimulates the intestines, encourages peristalsis, and releases trapped gas, helping reduce bloating and ease constipation.

3. Is Chi Nei Tsang safe after childbirth?

With gentle technique, it’s safe after your doctor’s clearance — usually 6 weeks postpartum for vaginal birth, or 8–12 weeks after a C-section.

4. How many sessions will I need?

Many clients notice improvement after one session, but chronic digestive or stress issues may benefit from weekly treatments for 4–6 weeks.

5. Can I combine Chi Nei Tsang with acupuncture or other therapies?

Absolutely. We often combine Chi Nei Tsang with acupuncture and medical massage for faster, deeper results.

🌼 Additional Insights on Chi Nei Tsang

Chi Nei Tsang is not just a massage; it’s a holistic approach to wellness. By focusing on the abdomen, it addresses both physical ailments and emotional blockages. This dual focus makes it a unique therapy that resonates with many individuals seeking comprehensive healing.

The Connection Between Gut Health and Emotions

Research increasingly shows that our gut health is closely linked to our emotional well-being. The gut is often referred to as the "second brain." This connection means that emotional stress can manifest as digestive issues. Chi Nei Tsang helps to break this cycle, promoting both digestive health and emotional balance.

Incorporating Chi Nei Tsang into Your Wellness Routine

For optimal results, consider integrating Chi Nei Tsang into your regular wellness routine. Regular sessions can enhance your overall health, making you more resilient to stress and improving your digestive function.

Conclusion

Chi Nei Tsang offers a pathway to improved digestive health and emotional well-being. Whether you seek relief from specific symptoms or wish to enhance your overall vitality, this ancient practice can be a valuable addition to your health regimen.

📍 Visit Us in San Diego — Or Start Your Healing Journey Online

Dr. JazHands Acupuncture and Therapeutic Massage is located at San Diego Herbal Medicine & Acupuncture is centrally located in Hillcrest, San Diego, and serves the surrounding areas including Downtown San Diego, North Park, Mission Valley, La Jolla, and Pacific Beach. We also work with patients from Los Angeles, Orange County, Escondido, Oceanside, Irvine, and Huntington Beach, as well as virtual clients worldwide from India, Singapore, Europe, and beyond.

🌀 Whether you're seeking digestive relief, emotional balance, or a deeper connection to your health through Chi Nei Tsang, Acupuncture, or our signature Buddha Belly Program, we're here to support your journey—in person or online.