Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialized form massage therapy that focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system to promote the flow of lymph, a fluid that carries waste and toxins away from the tissues. Integrative Lymphatic Drainage has a holistic approach, addressing both physical and mental wellness:
Who should get Lymphatic Drainage ? Lymphatic Drainage massage can be a very effective treatment for the following conditions:
AuthorAlisa is a Remedial Massage Therapist at Massage by the Sea, with a certificate in Integrative Lymphatic Drainage. Swimming and the Lymphatic System Studies show that water resistance combined with muscle movements generates a natural massage that helps drain the entire lymphatic system. Any exercise where you are moving and pumping the muscles, stimulates lymphatic flow. Exercising while submerged in water further enhances the flow of lymphatic fluid through hydrostatic pressure and its effect on deep breathing. 1. Hydrostatic pressure and compression As water is denser than air, it exerts more pressure on our bodies when we are submerged in it. This hydrostatic pressure compresses your skin, muscles, and joints like a custom compression garment, which stimulates lymphatic drainage. The fluids are pushed from the tissues in the extremities through to the venous and lymphatic systems and heads towards the central thoracic cavity: which means both your lymphatic and blood circulation and flow is increased. 2. Deep Breathing When swimming, surfing or just playing about in the water, your heart and lungs are already working harder due to the physical exertion of moving through the water and intermittently holding your breath when your head is underwater. The work of deep breathing is further increased by the compression of the chest cavity from the hydrostatic pressure of the water. Deep breathing stimulates the pumping in the thoracic duct, which is the largest of the two lymph ducts in the lymphatic system. As the lungs go from inhaling to exhaling, there is a clear switch in intra-abdominal pressure. This creates a vacuum-like effect and moves sluggish lymph fluid up the thoracic duct and into the venous system. Lymphatic drainage helps to keep the body “clean and lean” by detoxifying the body and removing excess liquid. At Massage by the Sea we are now offering integrative lymphatic drainage massage. A massage coupled with a swim in the ocean is the perfect way to boost and rejuvenate your body. Hmmm… makes me think of a place.. 😉 AuthorShareen is a nutritionist and director of Massage by the Sea Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as lymphatic massage, is a specialised technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays a vital role in our body’s immune response, waste removal, and overall fluid balance. It consists of a network of vessels and lymph nodes that transport lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells, to different parts of the body. During a lymphatic massage drainage session, the skilled massage therapist uses gentle, rhythmic movements and light pressure to stimulate the lymphatic system. This helps to facilitate the removal of toxins, excess fluid, and waste from the body, promoting overall health and enhancing the immune system’s functioning. This technique can offer several benefits, including: 1. Reducing Swelling and Oedema: By helping to move excess fluid out of tissues, it can reduce swelling, particularly after surgery or injury. 2. Improving Immune Function: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immune function by transporting white blood cells and other immune components throughout the body. 3. Detoxification: It can aid in removing toxins and waste products from the tissues, potentially improving overall health. 4. Promoting Relaxation and Stress Relief: The gentle, rhythmic nature of the massage can be deeply relaxing, reducing stress and its negative impacts on the body. 5. Enhancing Skin Health: Improved lymph flow can help reduce acne, puffiness, and other skin conditions by removing toxins and improving circulation. 6. Supporting a Leaner Appearance: By promoting the removal of excess fluid and toxins, lymphatic drainage can help reduce bloating and water retention, leading to a more toned and defined look. Improved circulation and detoxification can also enhance metabolic function, supporting weight management and overall body composition goals. Who will benefit from Lymphatic Drainage massage? Lymphatic drainage is a useful therapy for a variety of conditions, including:
Contraindications Avoid lymphatic drainage massage if any of the following apply to you:
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