How To Improve Your Lymphatic Health
Improving your lymphatic health can have a positive effect on every system and organ in the body. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) sessions at Zen Body & Skin in Henderson, NV can help move stagnant lymph, reducing puffiness, and chronic pain, promote glowing skin, and help support your overall wellness.
What Is The Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is part of your immune system, delivering nutrients to your body while removing harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, toxins, and abnormal cells. It’s made up of vessels, nodes, bone marrow, spleen, thymus, adenoids, and tonsils.
Every cell in the body is bathed in lymph and constantly cleans and nourishes us. Because the lymphatic system is connected to every organ and system in the body (including your nervous system, digestive system and neurological system) healthy lymph is a crucial part of feeling healthy, energetic, and vibrant.
When it comes to your immunity and health, the lymphatic system is the unsung hero.
What Are Some Signs Your Lymphatic System Is Struggling?
When lymph becomes stagnant harmful substances build up and cause inflammation. Inflammation will lead to pain and stiffness. We may notice our face or other areas of the body seem puffy and heavy. We could start to experience a lack of energy and brain fog. We may notice acne breakouts, rashes, or just a lack of vibrancy in the skin. We may feel an increase in allergies and digestive issues.
- Inflammation & Pain
- Puffiness
- Eye bags
- Stiffness (Especially In The Morning)
- Brain Fog
- Lack Of Energy
- Skin Issues (Acne, Rashes, Psoriasis, Eczema)
- Poor Digestion (Gas, Bloating, Indigestion, Etc)
- Consistent Phlegm In Throat
- Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Tender Breasts
"The lymphatic system is going to play a role in everything. If you've got a symptom, you can most likely link it to the lymphatic system playing some kind of pivotal role in it."
- Dr. Nickelston, Stop Chasing Pain
10 Ways To Improve Your Lymphatic Health
In today’s world, there is a huge toxic load that is put upon our bodies. Processed food and a sedative lifestyle are large contributors. But there are also things beyond our control such as surgeries, injuries, and environmental toxins. Even when we are trying to live a healthy, active life, our lymphatic system often needs some extra help.
Here are 9 ways to improve the flow of lymph. Many of these things you can do from the comfort of your own home and cost little to no money.
- Stay Hydrated
- Movement
- Dr. Nickleston’s Big 6 Lymph Reset
- Dry Brushing
- Castor Oil Packs
- Breath Work
- Herbs & Teas
- Saunas
- Massage Therapy
- MLD Treatments
Lymph Will Become Stagnant Without Sufficient Water
Dehydration will inhibit the lymph’s ability to move. It’s no wonder as lymph is made up of about 96% water. If you are planning to receive an MLD treatment, make sure to come well-hydrated so you can achieve the best results.
Keep Moving To Move Your Lymph
The lymphatic system does not have a pump like your circulatory system. It relies on movement. Exercises like rebounding are a great way to pump your lymph. But just taking a brisk walk around the block will get things moving.
The Big 6 Lymph Reset is one of my favorite ways to encourage the movement of lymph. It's quick and easy to remember.
Just a few minutes out of your day each morning can make a huge difference in your lymphatic health.
But don't forget to breath and drink your water!
Dry Brushing To Soften Skin & Increase Flow
Dry brushing, referred to as gharshana in Ayurveda, is an ancient technique used to soften the skin, increase circulation, and encourage lymph flow. The ancient Egyptians pioneered this dry brushing thousands of years ago, and incorporated this into their beauty rituals.
Elevate Your Self-Care Rituals With The Revolutionary Lymph Brush
The lymph brush is one of the tools I’ve incorporated into my manual lymphatic drainage sessions. The brush’s density and pattern are specially designed to grip the skin and target the body’s superficial lymph vessels. Strokes with the lymph brush mimic the passive contractions of the lymph vessels to help move fluid and increase lymphatic flow.
Unlike traditional dry brushes, the lymph brush’s bristles are soft and won’t irritate the skin. This brush is the perfect self-care tool if you are trying to improve your lymphatic health.
Castor Oil Packs To Ease Inflammation
Castor oil packs date back to ancient Egyptians where is was used for medicinal and beauty purposes. It’s hight content of ricinoleic acid is said to help calm inflammation and support healing. Castor oil packs is made from a piece of cloth (ideally organic cotton) that is saturated with castor oil and applied over the abdomen or another area of the body. Castor oil packs are commonly used to improve digestion, relieve constipation, and ease period cramps. It is also believed to support increasing the flow of lymph.
Because castor oil is deeply penetrating so it’s important to choose a high-quality castor oil that is organic and hexane free.
Deep Breathing To Move Lymph & Calm The Nervous System
Deep breathing assists the lymph by changing the pressure in your abdomen and chest to encourage the movement of lymph back to the circulatory system. During diaphragmatic breating you are engaging your abdominal muscles to compress and stimulate your lymph nodes.
Diaphragmatic breathing also helps relax the body allowing fluids to move more freely.
Sip On This To Support Your Lymph & Digestive Health
The herbal tea also contains turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and mint.
Infrared Saunas To Release Blockages
Infrared saunas have been clincally proven to support the lymphatic system. Infrared heat supports the natural detoxification process, opening blockages and increasing lymph flow. Infrared heat is deeply penetrating and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
During my MLD treatments at Zen Body & Skin, I use a crystal infrared mat on my massage table to help you get the most out of your session.
Massage Therapy To Ease Tension
Massage therapy is one of the oldest healing modalities and is well known for it’s wellness benefits. By easing tension and relaxing tight muscles, fluids such as lymph and blood can flow more freely. You may combine massage with an MLD treatment.
MLD Treatments For Prevention & Wellness
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle touch that helps open up your lymph collectors and speed up lymphatic flow. It’s a relaxing, rhythmic treatment typically done by a massage therapist or other health care provider. It can help reduce inflammation and pain, boost the immune system, calm the nervous system, reduce cellulite, and ease swelling and puffiness.
Experience A Manual Lymphatic Drainage Treatment in Henderson
If you would like to experience the health benefits of manual lymphatic drainage session, request an appointment, or call or text Zen Body & Skin in Henderson, NV. I offer full-body MLD, as well as sessions focused on just the neck, face, and head.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informative purposes only and is not medical advice. Please talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing issues with your lymphatic system, or having any unexplained pain or symptoms. Never start a new diet or exercise plan without consulting your healthcare provider first. I encourage you to do your own research and discover what is right for you and your body!