Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Very few people understand the humble working of the lymphatic system. Basically, the lymphatic system consists of one-way channels into which excess fluids, called lymph, are absorbed. This fluid consists of waste materials and some white blood cells. It is not under pressure and only moves because of exercise or muscle contraction. Lymph moves towards the heart where it empties into veins. The two largest areas of lymph collection are just below the clavicles, areas that are often swollen or tender due to congestion in the lymphatic system. The left side carries more fluid than the right, explaining why so many people experience worse swelling on the left side. Many patients suffered from congestion or conditions such as mastitis before developing cancer. The lymphatic system benefits from alkalization of the diet and improved digestion. Dietary improvement and lymphatic stimulation—massage and exercise—combined with herbs that aid lymphatic purification support the lymphatic system’s ability to carry off debris. As a general rule, there will be only minimal improvement in places such as the axilla or groin until the thoracic duct is freed of stagnation.The lymphatic system is essential as the body’s drainage system for cleansing and filtering out of bacteria and toxins. Congested lymph pathways can cause soreness, aches, pains and flu-like symptoms. Lymphatic massage helps to unclog the lymph system. Beginning in a clockwise motion on the body, the lymph system is manually cleansed. Best performed in a series of six, or as part of a full detoxification program, this form of massage helps the body to heal itself from many common maladies. As with most massage, it is vital to drink lots of water after a lymphatic massage.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a gentle technique that works through the body’s fluid system to activate the circulation of the tissues and stimulate the functioning of the immune and parasympathetic nervous systems. The result of these actions can include reductions in oedemas, detoxification of the body, regeneration of tissue as well as many other benefits.

The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is critical to our body’s ability to operate at peak performance. This system drains fluids, detoxifies and regenerates tissues, filters out toxins and foreign substances and helps us maintain a healthy immune system. If lymph circulation stagnates however, toxins accumulate and compromise cellular functioning, which opens the way to physical ailments.

These special techniques are performed with hands and fingers simulating gentle, wave-like movements. They are neither tiring nor straining but light-touch and easy to use. These subtle manual maneuvers activate lymph and interstitial fluid circulation as well as stimulate the functioning of the immune and parasympathetic nervous systems.

It is shown that when these actions are accomplished, the results can be:

Benefits:

Many cases of disharmony on the body and mind are due to an exhausted lymph system. Th helps to clear the ‘passageways’. Excellent after surgery.

• Reduction in oedemas (swelling) and lymphodemas of various origins
• Detoxification of the body
• Relief of numerous chronic and subacute inflammations, including sinusitis, bronchitis and otitis
• Relief of chronic pain
• Regeneration of tissue, including burns, wounds, stretch marks and wrinkles
• Stimulation of the immune system
• Reduction in the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
• Anti spastic actions to relieve conditions such as muscle hypertonus and some forms of constipation
• Deep relaxation to aid insomnia, stress, loss of vitality and loss of memory
• Anti-aging effects
• Alleviation of oediposis and cellulite tissue

What happens in a typical Massage session?

The therapist will ask questions about your medical history; general health and lifestyle. This will help her decide which movements are most appropriate for you as an individual. A session lasts from 60 minutes, and costs £50 per hour.

Other Benefits

There are so many more benefits of lymphatic drainage and if you’ve never had one before, now is definitely the time to get one.

Remember prevention is better than cure. Once you show signs of improvement we will continue to work with you to keep harmony and balance already achieved. A regular treatment, depending on your timetable, will stop future stress from accumulating. We encourage you to have regular treatments to prevent illness and maintain a state of well-being.

Post Treatment Advice

In order to get the most out of your treatment and to aid the healing process, it is advisable to:

• Drink plenty of water. This helps flush out the toxins that have been released from your cells into your system.
• Eat a light diet. This is to prevent energy needed for healing from going to your stomach to digest a heavy meal! Eat raw foods such as fruit and vegetables if possible for vitality and cleansing effects.
• Avoid tea and coffee. These are stimulants and should be avoided after a treatment. Drink herbal teas or fresh fruit/vegetable juice instead.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking.
• Rest and relax as much as possible. This allows the body to commence healing.

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