Elisabeth Andrio – Chi Nein Tsang
Chi Nein Tsang
Abdominal Massage
Chi Nei Tsang (CNT) is a specialized form of abdominal massage that releases tension, detoxifies, and promotes the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. The name translates to “working the energy of the internal organs.” According to tradition, this practice originated in ancient China, where Taoist monks of the White Cloud Order in mountain monasteries used CNT to cleanse, strengthen, and refine their bodies. This enabled them to sustain the energy needed for advanced spiritual practices. In more recent times, CNT traveled to Thailand and later to the West.
This holistic therapy integrates the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of our being. Toxins from food, drugs, pollution, and other environmental factors, combined with unresolved emotional stress, can create blockages or “knots” in the abdomen. These obstructions may hinder energy flow, eventually affecting overall health and leading to disease.
The belly is the center of our body—where breath, movement, and vital energy (chi) originate and are stored. Chi Nei Tsang benefits all bodily systems, including:
Digestive, Respiratory, Urinary, Reproductive, Cardiovascular, Musculoskeletal. Lymphatic. Endocrine, Nervous, Meridian system
In Chinese medicine, organs and their corresponding meridians are closely connected to emotional states, such as anger, grief, fear, anxiety, and joy. CNT helps train the internal organs to function more efficiently, supporting both physical and emotional well-being.
Potential Benefits of Chi Nei Tsang
Relieves intestinal blockages, knots, lumps, and scar tissue
Improves digestion and alleviates digestive issues
Eases menstrual cramps, infertility, impotence, and uterine fibroids
Addresses back pain, sciatica, and postural/musculoskeletal issues
Enhances breathing and blood circulation
Supports autoimmune disorders
Promotes better sleep and relieves chronic fatigue
Whether addressing existing conditions, accelerating healing, or serving as a preventative practice, CNT offers profound benefits.
What to Expect in a Session
A typical Chi Nei Tsang session lasts 90 minutes. It involves gentle yet deep touch on the abdominal area, working directly on the skin with a small amount of oil.
Elisabeth Andrio
Eli’s work is rooted in a profound curiosity about the relationship between the body, mind, and spirit. She has been traveling the world for the last two decades to study yoga, meditation, Taoism, Chinese medicine, and other. She integrates ancient wisdom with contemporary practices from the realms of somatic psychotherapy, polyvagal theory and various somatic practices as well as contact improvisation dance.
Water has brough deep transformation into her life and she loves to share her transmission with water therapy and water dancing.
Eli emphasizes embodied compassionate presence to access deep layers of connection and healing. Her trauma-informed approach and understanding of the nervous system allow her to hold safe, empowering spaces where participants can explore resilience and self-expression.
Based in Corfu, Eli is the creatress of the Flying Pool Project, a heated therapy pool, a space dedicated to the aquatic arts. She is also a co-creatress of Corfu Contact Festival and other community gatherings. Through those offerings she invites others to reconnect with themselves, their environment, and others in an authentic embodied way.
Preparation
Best not to have a meal 2-3 hours prior
Not recommended during pregnancy and menstruation.
Wear comfortable clothes.
