Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

Massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction is intended to:

1. Move lymphatic fluid

2. Enhance skin absorption

3. Follow natural digestive motility

4. Alleviate stress

The correct answer is: Follow natural digestive motility

Massaging the abdomen in a clockwise direction is intended to follow the natural digestive motility. This direction aligns with the way food travels through the digestive tract, specifically through the large intestine, which moves in a clockwise pattern from the lower right abdomen, up to the upper right, across the top, down the left side, and then out the rectum. When a therapist uses this technique, it can help promote peristalsis, which is the wave-like muscle contractions that move contents through the digestive system. This can aid in digestion, relieve discomfort associated with gas or bloating, and improve overall gut health. The alignment with the body’s natural processes makes this technique effective for enhancing digestive function.