Lymphatic Drainage Benefits
Popular wellness habits can seem elaborate and over the top, and they’re sometimes flaunted on TikTok as if everyone’s reality consists of 25+ hours in a day. But, some of your favorite wellness influencers are actually onto something when it comes to lymphatic drainage. The main job of the lymphatic system is to transport the infection-fighting white blood cells. Similar to blood cells, lymphatic fluid is always moving- if it stops and builds up, extreme and unhealthy swelling can occur. There’s no pump for lymph fluid like there is for blood. The lymphatics rely on muscle contractions to push fluid unidirectionally toward the neck area where it empties into the subclavian vein. Treating your body with necessary care through a lymphatic massage is vital. Aside from the relaxed piece of self-care that this practice brings (the rhythm and cadence can feel like a calm ocean), there are multiple health benefits. The general practice moves fluid towards lymph nodes and detoxifies the body (and mind), resulting in a fresh, depuffed figure.
The benefits
The reduction of swelling and bloating
Helps reduce the appearance of cellulite
Promote digestive health
Lessen fatigue and stress
Encourage fluid, waste, and toxin drainage
Fight off infection
The practice even fights against unwanted cancerous cells, nitrogenous wastes, infectious viruses, and heavy metals. Yes, this practice can strongly benefit cancer patients- or anyone looking for a new way to feel refreshed in their bodies.
Image from Julia Friedman
Professionals demonstrate this practice through intense massages that deliver incredible depuffing results. But, anyone can do this to themselves and feel improved almost immediately.
How to…
Executing a lymphatic massage on yourself is actually quite simple. Following the structure of where lymph nodes are located on your body through gentle, rhythmic movements will cause any swelling to deflate. Here is a map that shows exactly where the lymphatic system is located and where to message it in order to drain it thoroughly.
Lymph strokes use the palm of your hand as much as possible, and it’s best to massage the entire body, as everything is connected. Your neck, belly and thighs are all connected and related through the lymphatic system.
Tools
Dry Brushing is a great way to not only remove dead skin cells but also remove toxicity in the body through the lymphatic system. Additionally, the practice unclogs pores through exfoliation, increases blood circulation and reduces inflammation. To achieve the best results, you must lightly brush up the body starting at the ankles to knee, the knee to the groin, wrist to elbow, then elbow to armpit. It’s best to brush downwards in the torso area and repeat each stroke 3-5 times.
Gua sha routine can be performed on the face or the body. To implement lymphatic drainage in the face with this tool, start at the chin, then sweep the gua sha tool along your jawline and up to the ear, move the tool behind the earlobe, and then down the neck and repeat three times.
Image from Top Knots and Pearls