Hara - Asian abdominal massage The abdomen plays a very important role in the health of a person. In Japan it is believed that a person’s abdomen reflects the person’s life, his/her health and strength. The abdomen, in Japan called “hara” is a focal point of many eastern arts - martial arts such as judo and karate, but also arts such as Ikebana or calligraphy. Shiatsu, a healing art, utilizes the hara to determine and treat the client’s condition. During the hara work, the area between the lower edges of the ribs and the upper edges of the pelvic bones is palpated and various techniques are used to release stagnation or increase vibrancy. The hara work increases the blood flow in the abdominal region and the organs it contains (stomach, spleen, liver, gallbladder, large and small intestines); stimulates peristalsis, and increases the overall health of the client. Hara work brings great results in conditions such as lower back pain, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, menstrual difficulties (cramps, missed periods), diarrhea, constipation, Hara work is also a wonderful and pleasant way to restore the muscle tone and vibrancy of the area for women after childbirth. Periodical hara work in the long term leads to improved posture.