Lymphatic drainage massage, lymphatic self-massage, and lymphatic facials
Manual lymph drainage uses gentle, rhythmic strokes, creating a wave-like sensation in the body that follows the paths towards the lymph nodes, where toxins are then filtered out. The specific pumping strokes could circulate immune cells through the body and can reduce inflammation. A simple lymphatic self-massage sequence a few nights a week may help to:
- Increase the carrying capacity of the lymph system, allowing it to process more fluid than normal.
- Increase the flow through the lymph nodes, filtering out waste products, dead cells, excess proteins and toxins from the tissues.
- Increase the production of lymphocytes, thereby increasing your body’s ability to fight infections.
- Activate the parasympathetic response, producing a body-wide relaxation effect.
Movement
The lymph system depends on muscle movement to pump and decongest stagnant lymph fluid, acting as a natural lymph flush. In other words: exercise is key to lymphatic health. Yoga is a great way to get your movement on because it utilises your entire muscle network, which pumps lymph through the one-way vessels. Also great is jumping on a rebounder trampoline and swimming in a salt-water pool (the water pressure could act as a compressant to the lymph vessels).
Use clean skincare, and reduce environmental and emotional toxins
A large percentage of what you put on your body gets absorbed into the lymph system, and chemicals in household products should be avoided whenever possible. You can lighten lymphatic processing load by choosing non-toxic, clean beauty products for your body and home. Check out our growing range of remedies for some of the newest and cleanest products on the market: 202 Eastbourne Street West, Hastings.
Make healthy food choices
Gut health = lymph health! Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants and vegetables is optimal. Reduce salt and alcohol intake, find a healthy food plan you can maintain, avoid chemicals in diet foods, and consult with our recommended herbalist about herbs and probiotics, to boost your gut health and immunity. Let us refer you to our Holistic nutritionist and lifestyle cleanse practitioner about high grade supplements.
Hydrate
Our bodies are aquariums. You can increase fluid flow and flush out toxins and pathogens by bathing fluids in antioxidants. Additionally, drinking plenty of water with lemon and electrolytes throughout the day will help circulate and nourish your lymph cells. Check out our range of simple tonic teas that are specifically designed to support immunity and are super hydrating.
Support the parasympathetic nervous system
Infrared Biomats offer light, heat, and gem therapy designed to be a natural detox and pain reliever. The deep cellular relaxation received from lying on a biomat set to your own body temperature, may support the body to drop into the parasympathetic system where healing occurs. Meditation, deep breathing, breathwork, and laughter can also help counter stress and support the nervous system.
Dry brushing
Dry Brushing is an excellent way to remove dead cells from the surface of your skin, so your lymph system doesn’t have to process the extra cellular waste. Brush lightly and towards your heart.
