Most people are familiar with deep tissue, hot stone, or sports massage and the therapeutic benefits they have on the mind and body. But many aren\u2019t aware of another type of therapeutic massage that helps to release toxins in your body \u2014 manual lymphatic drainage.<\/p>\n<\/div>
Lymphatic drainage is a gentle form of massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to promote the removal of bodily toxins and waste and encourages a healthy immune system. To fully understand the benefits of lymphatic drainage, it helps to learn more about the lymphatic system.<\/p>\n
The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections. It is made up of lymphatic vessels that carry lymph \u2014 a clear, watery fluid that contains nutrients \u2014 throughout the body.<\/p>\n
Lymph fluid flows through the lymph nodes, which act as filters trapping anything harmful that the body doesn\u2019t need. This includes bacteria, viruses, damaged cells, or cancer cells. When bacteria or other immune threats are present in lymph, lymph nodes increase production of infection-fighting white blood cells, which can cause the nodes to swell. The human body has between 400-700 lymph nodes depending on the person.<\/p>\n
The lymphatic system has no “pump” of its own to move lymph through the system. Rather, regular body movement and breathing function to move liquid lymph through the vessels and filters of the lymph nodes. For people who get too little exercise and eat too much processed food, the lymphatic system can easily be overtaxed and not function efficiently \u2014 leaving your body susceptible to infection and disease. By stimulating the lymph nodes through massage, it helps to clear any blockages and gives the lymphatic system a boost keeping it running healthy and strong.<\/p>\n<\/div>
Lymphatic drainage is a specialized hand technique that consists of very gentle and rhythmic movements, administered by a highly trained therapist. Each stroke slightly moves the skin in the direction of the lymphatic flow to encourage the drainage of fluid and waste.<\/p>\n
Depending what your complaints are, the focus of a lymph massage for general immune stimulation is typically on the upper body, including the face, neck, and arms. After your lymph massage, it\u2019s important to drink plenty of water, reduce your salt intake and avoid alcohol.<\/p>\n<\/div>
Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit just about everyone. The benefits are many and include:<\/p>\n