Lymphatic Massage: Makes Your Tummy Happy, Tames Inflammation & Much More

Spa-goers who seek to improve their overall well being will certainly be fans of manual lymph drainage (usually referred to as MLD or lymphatic drainage). It decreases facial puffiness, boosts the immune system, smooths cellulite and soothes sore muscles. Lymphatic drainage massage helps deliver cellular waste to the lymph nodes. Drainage is essential because the lymphatic system lacks a pump of its own to transport lymph through the body and must rely on movement and massage to flush the fluid. Blocked lymphatic systems contribute to acne, constipation and even cellulite. This type of massage is known to reduce swelling, heal acne, relieve fatigue, and help the body detox.

What are habits that contribute to a poor performing lymphatic system?

• Movement is essential. People who practice little movement, walking or exercise often suffer from a clogged lymphatic system. Proper flow requires movement. It’s suggested to practice exercises just like simple walking in the morning or jumping jacks to stimulate the lymphatic system.
• Dehydration, the mother of all illness. Drink Water. Unlike wine, people tend to have trouble drinking bottles of water. Hydration is critical to stimulate movement in your intestines. Drink water often.
• Stress which creates elevated cortisol, sleepless nights and high irritability also creates acidity which leads to lymph congestion.
• Processed foods introduced in the last century have further created an imbalance in our bodies. Foods that the body does not normally absorb genetically create a sluggish lymphatic system.

While imperative to circulation, the lymphatic system is not commonly discussed. A critical part of the body, twice as much lymph fluid exists in the body as blood. This network of tissues and organs has a sole purpose to rid the body of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. People who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and other digestive issues will benefit from a visit as part of the goal is to unblock the natural sewage treatment system.

What can you expect during a lymphatic massage?

• Interview with the masseuse. An experienced masseuse will ask you about your diet, about your circulation and about your digestive system.
• Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, beneath the breasts, close to the underarms, near the belly, throughout the leg. Lymphatic drainage occurs via perspiration in the armpits or urination. An experienced masseuse will try to move the fluids towards the pelvic area and towards the underarms.
• Depending on the machine used, the masseuse may hold glass vials with a rounded point to move the fluids in the lymphatic system. Movement in the lower body will steer fluid towards the pelvis. Movement in the upper body will steer fluid towards the underarms.
• During the massage, you will only feel the light touch of the vials. Slight ringing sound happens where a build up of lymphatic fluid exists but overall this would be considered a light touch massage.
• The purpose of Lymphatic drainage is to optimize fluid circulation throughout the body. Persist in this practice as it does take more than one massage to see results.

After the massage, drink plenty of water. Dehydration is often discussed during this treatment. Incorporate green foods, especially superfoods, to improve digestion. While these practices have become a little more mainstream today, it is still important to understand that the foods one consumes do reflect on the skin and in the body.

Post-lymphatic results:

• Improved elimination
• Improved skin texture
• Weight reduction
• Decrease in cellulite

In addition, to keep and maintain a fluid lymphatic system, here are a few tips.

• Continue with lymphatic massage once a month or more depending on fluidity. Ask your masseuse about methods you can include lymphatic drainage at home with dry scrubbing also.
• Drink a lot of water. Begin with a gallon a day and increase accordingly.
• Incorporate green foods into your diet, preferably organic. This will hopefully decrease the amount of processed foods you ingest.