5 Simple Ways to Keep your Lymphatic System Healthy
Have you thought about your lymphatics today? The lymphatic system is something we normally aren’t conscious of, but it is a very important system in the body that helps us to release toxin and cellular waste as well as defends our body against invaders. Research has shown that this system is integral in overall health and well-being and it could even be the key to relieving many common ailments.
Here are 5 simple practices you can do to help keep your lymphatic system in tip top shape:
1. Abhyanga & Dry Brushing
Due to the fact that the lymphatic system is a pumpless system, self massage with oil (Abhyanga) helps to stimulate movement. This is true for all parts of the body, but there is a special significance to self breast massage, since there are many lymph nodes and vessels in this area and by stimulating them, it can help lymph to flow more freely.
More Information & a very helpful how to video: https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/ayurvedic-living/living-ayurveda/lifestyle/self-oil-massage/
Another way to stimulate lymph drainage is by dry brushing. This can be helpful for those that normally do strenuous exercise such as running, spinning etc. When the body does a cardio workout, more fluid is created and dry brushing can help keep the lymph fluid moving, so it doesn’t stagnate and get congested. Make sure you are brushing towards your heart and circles around your abdomen. A good time to fit this in is right before you shower!
2. Gentle Movement - Yoga, Qi gong, Tai Chi, walking, rebounding
As I mentioned above, strenuous exercise can be taxing on the lymphatic system. Gentle movement such as Yoga, Qi gong, Tai Chi, walking and rebounding help stimulate the lymphatic system without pushing it into overdrive. There are specific yoga routines to stimulate the lymphatics. Here is one of my favorites:
Lymphatic Yoga flow (Brett Larkin)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCTkfyhQrJs
3. Pranayama - breathing exercises
The diaphragm is one of the main movers of lymph in the body. Doing simple breathing exercises each day can help to keep that lymph moving! A good way to fit this into your hectic daily schedule is to do a few minutes in the morning when you wake up and at night before you fall asleep. A few minutes truly makes a difference! My favorite is Kapalbhati (skull shining breath). Here are some different types of breathing exercises you can try:
https://www.yogajournal.com/poses/types/pranayama
4. Hydrate, Hydrate and Hydrate some more
Drinking water helps the lymph to flow easier through the system. Hydrating is especially important in the summer because of the increased heat. We don’t want the heat to take a toll on the functioning of this system and our overall wellbeing!
5. Regular Manual Lymph Drainage(MLD) / Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)
Monthly manual lymph drainage and/or Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD) can help support a healthy flowing lymphatic system. There are also many different benefits such as reduction of symptoms associated with chronic migraines, fatigue, muscle aches & soreness, and lymphedema to name a few. Click here to learn more about these benefits: https://www.solefulbeginnings.com/reflexology-lymph-drainage-rld
