Millions of people around the world have benefitted from lymphatic drainage massage since the 1930s. Visit Halcyon Bodyworks for this relaxing and healing experience.

Lymphatic drainage is a therapeutic massage with a gentle process. The massage uses very light pressure and long, gentle rhythmic strokes to encourage lymph flow and reduce toxins in your body to improve your mental and physical health.

 

What is the lymph system?

Composed of a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of waste, toxins and other unwanted materials, the lymphatic systems primary function is to to transport lymph through the body. Lymph is a clear fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, so a healthy lymphatic system is part of a strong immune system.

Similar to the veins and capillaries of the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is primarily composed of lymphatic vessels. The vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. The main lymph nodes are in the neck, armpits and groin. The lymph system has no pump, the movement from your muscles and pressure from your blood vessels pushes the lymphatic fluid around the body.

 

Why would you want a lymphatic drainage massage?

Like we’ve mentioned, good lymphatic drainage is a key component to a strong immune system. Lymphatic drainage can help your body fight off infection, and reduce healing time.

Many doctors prescribe lymphatic drainage massage after surgery to reduce swelling and speed up the healing in scar tissue.

The increase in blood flow from a lymphatic drainage massage can help reduce cellulite by breaking down the toxins that cause dimply skin. You can also read about how fascia blasting can reduce cellulite here.

Since the lymph system has no pump, if you’ve been sitting for a long time your lymph can’t flow freely which may make your feet or fingers swollen. A lymphatic drainage massage can help reduce this water retention.

Some people suffer from Lymphedema where their lymphatic system has a blockage. This can happen to people in cancer treatment when a lymph node has been removed. Regular manual lymphatic drainage can help since the condition itself cannot be cured.

 

Lymph Drainage Massage Helps:

Throat, Nose & Ears

• Lymphedema
• Lipedema
• Sinusitis
• Tinnitus
• Meniere’s disease

Other

• Chronic Fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• Toxic Poisoning

What is a lymphatic drainage massage like?

Similar to other therapeutic massage treatments lymphatic drainage is relaxing. If you show up a few minutes early to your appointment you can give your body time to decompress before heading in for your massage. This way when you lay down on our warm massage table your body is ready, open and receptive to relaxation. If you ever feel like the room is too warm or too cold, tell your massage therapist and they will make adjustments so you are completely comfortable.

Lymphatic drainage massage typically starts with your feet. Your therapist then uses long, gentle rhythmic strokes with light pressure to stimulate pumping through your lymphatic system, working their way up to your neck.

You may feel tired after your lymphatic drainage so give yourself time to recover. You’ll probably be thirsty. Your massage therapist will hand you a glass of water when you leave the massage room but make sure to drink water like it’s a bottomless pitcher of margaritas on Taco Tuesday for the rest of the day.

 

Take Home Tip

Lymphatic drainage flushes out your system, you can do this daily by drinking enough water.

Physical activity is so beneficial to your lymphatic system, as your muscles move they exert pressure on the lymphatic vessels and keeps them moving. This could be as simple as going for a walk or a hike, whatever gets your body moving. Dancing is fun too!