BOOK A SESSION NOW:
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE
Manual lymphatic drainage, also known as lymphatic drainage massage, is a gentle yet powerful form of bodywork that is intended to stimulate and encourage the natural movement of lymph. It is a technique based on gentle, rhythmic and constant movements that mimic the natural flow of lymph through the body.
THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
The lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels, lymph nodes and ducts that move fluid throughout the body. Its’ job is to move toxins and waste products away from healthy cells and tissues and out of the body for elimination.
Essentially, the lymphatic system is your body’s own waste disposal system. It takes the waste from each individual cell and, through a complex system of tiny vessels and lymph nodes, brings this waste to the kidneys so it can leave the body through the urine.
Although there is about twice as much lymph fluid in your body as there is blood, and even though the lymphatic system carries fluid in a similar way to blood, it does not have its own pump (i.e. your heart for your blood). Thus, congestion and blockages can easily manifest causing the lymphatic system to become overloaded, with nothing to keep it moving. Over time this leads to a host of problems such as:
- Increased susceptibility to viruses and pathogens
- Poorer immune function
- Increased toxicity in the body
- Fluid retention
- Swollen glands
- Feeling run down …and more
Your lymphatic system is also a very important part of your body’s immune system. Blocked lymphatic vessels and nodes can affect the white blood cell count leading to increased vulnerability to illness and allergies.
The lymph also carries germ-fighting compounds to assist cells when they are under attack by pathogens or viruses, making the lymphatic system a key player in your immune function.
WHY DO I NEED LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE?
Although fluid moves through the lymphatic system, it does not have its own pumping mechanism. Lymphatic drainage is a type of therapy that aims to help the body produce a free-flowing lymphatic system.
A lymphatic drainage massage primarily focuses on specific lymph nodes and points of the body, as well as the natural flow of the lymphatic system. This process reduces blockages of the lymphatic system, which in turn promotes a healthier body.
Lymphatic drainage massage is indicated for many people, including healthy individuals or those with (but not limited to) the following conditions:
- Autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia etc.)
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Neuropathy
- Cellulite
- Fluid Retention / Bloating
- Lymphoedema
- Circulatory disorders
- Chronic immune deficiency
BENEFITS
Lymphatic massage, although not as common as other types of massage modalities, is highly therapeutic. Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit you, if you are:
- Feeling sluggish
- Experiencing bloating or oedema
- Recovering from an injury or operation
- Wanting to support your elimination pathways and enhance detoxification
- On a weight loss program
- Having trouble getting rid of cellulite
- Constantly getting sick or feeling run down
- Dealing with chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema
- Wanting to boost your overall immune system
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Although lymphatic drainage is beneficial for a number of conditions, it is not for everybody. Contraindications include:
- Congestive heart failure
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Recent / undergoing chemotherapy treatment
- Acute inflammation or infection
- Active cancer / malignancies
- Arteriosclerosis
- Acute cold/flu
- Fever
- Some medications
- First trimester of pregnancy
**Please remember when booking a session: Make sure you book at a time that enables you to go home and rest for the remainder of the day. Also, it is not recommended that you eat a big meal prior to the appointment. The deep abdominal work can get uncomfortable right after eating.
Please drink plenty of fluid after the session to help flush out all the toxins that were mobilised from the massage **