What is Lymphatic Drainage?
THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in the body's immune system, and also acts as a routine detoxification system. As the filter and purification system of the body, the lymphatic system is responsible for elimination of toxins and waste products, and delivery of antibodies and healing substances to tissues and organs. A decrease in lymphatic circulation can cause fluids that normally carry waste away from cells, to become trapped and stagnant. This stagnation can weaken the immune system and set off a cascade of inflammation. Excessive congestion of lymph fluid is also linked to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, lupus, lyme, lipedema, and a multitude of other auto-immune and inflammatory disorders. Symptoms of lymphatic congestion are often fatigue, allergies, joint pain and inflammation, recurring illness, swelling, slow healing, chronic constipation, breast congestion, prostate dysfunction, and difficulty losing weight.
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MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
Manual lymphatic drainage helps speed up the elimination of toxins and excess fluids, improves circulation and contributes to healthier cells, which can lead to a reduction in pain and general inflammation. Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle skin stretching technique performed by a trained professional, to assist the body with filtration of fluid containing regular waste products. The strokes performed with manual lymphatic drainage are directional to assist with re-routing lymph fluid from soft tissue so it can be properly filtered out of the body. For people with swelling and inflammation there is often a noticeable visual difference post completion of manual lymph drainage with limb and body shape/size. After treatment, patients feel lighter, more relaxed, and display improved tissue mobility and skin stretch.
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LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE AND BREAST HEALTH
Breast lymphatic massage is an important proactive, preventive step to improve and maintain good breast health. Many women experience lymphatic congestion of the breasts, which can manifest as breast heaviness or soreness. The lymph nodes in breasts help circulate nutrients and remove toxins throughout breast tissue, the armpits and the chest area. Regular breast lymphatic drainage can improve circulation, reducing swelling and sluggishness, and help women feel better during PMS, pregnancy, and postpartum.
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