Today, lymphatic massage has become a major part of the wellness culture. Anyone seeking to detox and improve their general body function can do this because our body reacts with the changes in season, food, and daily physical activities.
Here’s how it works: the lymphatic system is made of lymph vessels and other tissues with connecting ducts that form a network under the skin. They are largely located in the neck, armpit, and groin region of the body.
Lymph nodes filter through the bodily fluids and contain different elements such as amino acids and wastes, and make sure that clear lymph is transferred to the veins which carry blood to the heart. In simple words, the lymphatic system is made to reabsorb unwanted fluid, filter it, and then take it to the part of the body where it needs to go.
What is lymphatic drainage massage?
A lymphatic massage is a form of massage that improves the flow of lymph fluids in the body. It has become more popular because of its numerous health benefits. It is a therapeutic form of massage that involves gentle movement in the direction of the lymph nodes to help the flow of fluids.
This procedure generally helps waste to pass through the cells. They are used to treat medical conditions like lymphedema, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic venous insufficiency.
Other benefits include:
- Reduces puffiness and swelling that may cause pains in the body.
- Enhances the immune system due to increased waste disposal.
- Provides general body relaxation which in turn promotes mental health.
- Is a beauty enhancing technique as a method of facial sculpting and cellulite reduction.
How to perform a lymphatic drainage massage
Medical experts advise getting a lymphatic massage from a trained professional therapist as they will be sure to perform a series of stretching and compression techniques. The therapist starts a manual lymphatic drainage massage by providing care to unaffected areas before moving to the congested regions. This can be achieved by performing the four basic techniques:
The scoop: This is a unique spiral movement done with one hand, palms arranged like a scoop. This is suitable for the lower part of the body.
Rotary: The hands are used to apply alternating strokes of continuous elliptical movement. It is performed on larger surfaces of the body.
Stationary: This technique involves stretching the skin in an oval-shaped motion. This movement is done on the face and groin regions where lymph nodes are concentrated.
Pump: The palm and fingertips are used on the skin over the affected area to perform circular movements which work on the lymphatic vessels.
You can always perform a lymphatic massage at home either by sitting standing or lying down. The procedure should take 45 to 60 minutes. You start the process by deep breathing, placing both hands on the stomach, inhaling through the nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth.
Then proceed to lie down on a comfortable surface, lift your elbows while raising one hand above your head and using your other hand to pull the skin inside your elbow. Minimal pressure is required as you only need to work the upper skin.
For your legs, start at the top while placing one hand inside the opposite thigh and gently stretch the skin towards the outside of your thigh. Go below your knee, placing one hand on your calf and massage by stretching the skin upward continue down to your ankles. End the massage by guiding the fluid in your toes upwards.
Some people recommend using the lymphatic massage wood and dry bush to perform the massage. In this case, you use the dry brush to perform a circular motion and the massage wood for upward movements. At the end of the session, you’ll need to drink lots of water to stay hydrated.
Measuring the effectiveness of massage
People who have had a lymphatic massage sometimes notice an immediate reduction in swelling and with continued sessions, the swelling did not worsen. You may also notice a feeling of general lightness and reduced stiffness, brighter skin for at least a few weeks, and a bloating free pass.
Tips to enhance a lymphatic massage
The importance of staying hydrated can not be over-emphasized as you can get dehydrated during the massage process. The following tips are great for getting the most out of your lymphatic massage:
- Rest well afterward.
- Wear a compression garment to prevent any future fluid build-up.
- Stay active and exercise regularly.
- Eat right, vegetables and limit processed foods.
In conclusion, a properly functioning lymphatic system is very essential for your well-being and can be achieved from a proper lymphatic massage session. It has been proven to work perfectly for proper fluid circulation.
The effects may not be visible to you after the first try but you should keep going till you achieve the best results. If you feel you can benefit from this procedure, you start by speaking to a therapist or searching for a lymphatic drainage massage near me.
