Give Yourself a Lymphatic Drainage Self-Massage 3 Classes

FREE for EVERYONE to JOIN!🎉 Donations welcomed and greatly appreciated✨
There are three primary functions of the lymphatic system: first is the maintenance of fluid balance, second is the facilitation of the absorption of dietary fats from the gastrointestinal tract to the bloodstream for metabolism or storage, and third is the enhancement and facilitation of the immune system.

Lymphatic Massage​: simple lymphatic drainage (SLD). Lymphatic draining techniques provide regular stimulation of the lymph vessels under the skin.​ The lymph system forms a major part of our immune system, thus it is an important part of keeping us healthy.​ Our aim is to help the body maintain proper blood circulation, body fluid balance, and immune functions.

​S​LD is a form of gentle massage that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body​ by gently manipulating specific areas of your body to help lymph move to an area with working lymph vessels.

Manual Lymph drainage (MLD)
MLD is a light, skin-stretching​ massage ​(stretching, compressing, gliding, to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote the movement of lymph fluid throughout the system​) that helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid out of the swollen limb. It should not be confused with a traditional massage. MLD is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. Therapy is applied to your unaffected areas first, making it possible for the fluid to move out of the affected area, or “decongest” the region. MLD helps open the remaining functioning lymph collectors and move protein and fluid into them, as well as to help speed up lymph fluid flow through the lymphatics.​
Because lymphatic capillaries are in the dermis your massage is gentle, you gently manipulate certain areas of the body with only light touch.

Deep breathing techniques called diaphragmatic breathing are usually done at the beginning and end of a therapy session to help open the deep lymphatic pathways. It’s not only relaxing, but it helps increase movement of fluid toward the heart​.
It's important to be well hydrated - drink enough water beforehand and after your massage session.

All LiL classes are recorded so don't worry if you missed a live class, simply register at your convenience and watch the class on demand as many times as you want.

​Learn about the Lymphatic System:
https://www.uc.edu/content/dam/uc/ce/images/OLLI/Page%20Content/OLLI%20-%20The%20Lymphatic%20System.pdf

​*Lymphatic drainage massage is typically considered safe and low-risk. However, this technique may not be safe for people with conditions that can move lymphatic fluid back to the heart or kidneys. These conditions include: Blood clots.

​**Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic drainage massage. Some people, however, complain of headaches, nausea and fatigue. When that happens, you should ask your healthcare provider about managing your side effects.

**​*Ms. Paolini is not a medical professional. The Content in this series is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.