MASSAGE BENEFITS OF THE LYMPH SYSTEM

WHAT IS THE LYMPH SYSTEM?

The lymphatic system is a large network of vessels and nodes throughout the body. This complex system is directly linked to your immune system. The lymphatic system allows your body to detox by helping to remove waste products from body tissue. This is all dependent on other body systems such as blood pressure of the blood system and how well the circulatory system is working. If your other systems are not working well it can lead to a slower lymph system that has a delayed detoxification process.

MASSAGE BENEFITS OF THE LYMPH SYSTEM

This is where manual stimulation of the lymph nodes can be extremely helpful. Gentle massage can help speed up the process of the lymph system by eliminating toxins from the body. Your immune system is boosted and inflammation in that area is reduced. When the lymph system is slow, fluid accumulates in the tissue and can result in swelling in the affected area. When fluid builds up, it can cause discomfort, irritation, puffiness and also a dull complexion.

FACIAL MASSAGE

A lymphatic friendly facial should offer a gentle, soothing and relaxing massage which can reduce swelling in the eye and neck area, as well as the rest of the face. Having a boosted immune system is an extra bonus. There are other ways to stimulate the lymph system, such as dry brushing.

DRY BRUSHING

Some people prefer dry brushing as a way to stimulate the lymphatic system because it is simple and quick enough to be done on a daily basis. Dry brushing is where you brush dry, bare skin with a soft bristled handheld brush. Personally I do not prefer this method. In my opinion, massage is much more enjoyable and relaxing.

HOW TO ASSIST IN LYMPH DRAINAGE

In general gentle lymphatic drainage should consist of movements that move towards the heart. When focusing on the face, movements should be directional to the outside edge of the face where most lymph nodes are located, then move down the neck and away from the face.

GIVE YOURSELF A LYMPH DRAINING FACIAL

1. Cleanse face with a gentle cleanser. Apply an oil serum, such as the youthful glow oil serum.
2. Begin at the top, center area of the forehead. With medium, gentle pressure bring your first 3 fingers of each hand across the eyebrow ridge repeatedly for 15 seconds.
3. Follow with medium, gentle pressure with ring fingers underneath the eye area, right above the cheek bones repeatedly for 15 seconds.
4. Using your ring and middle finger, begin in the center of your eyebrows and gently slide fingers toward the outside edge of the face, tracing above your eyebrows to the temple area. Repeat 5-10 times.
5. With first three fingers make long strokes downward from right underneath cheekbones toward neck area. Repeat 5-10 times.
6. With first two fingers Apply medium to light pressure to the outside of the jaw area. Make a few circular movements and then move down toward the neck. Repeat 5-10 times.
7. Repeat massage if desired.
8. Drink plenty of water after you do the lymph drainage massage to assist in removing waste, toxins, and excess water from the body.