We all wish to feel calm and relaxed. However, the pressures of life and work can cause stress physically and mentally. Experts suggest getting a massage to relieve tension and boost overall wellness. Lately, lymphatic drainage massage has become a trend among health personalities and celebrities.
They claim this massage can eliminate toxins from the body and boost the immune system. Some even suggest it can help people shed unwanted weight. Is it true? Can you get all the mentioned benefits by undergoing the lymphatic drainage massage? Let us learn more about it before deciding.
About Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Before learning the details of Lymphatic drainage massage, you must understand the lymphatic drainage system in the body. The lymphatic drainage system has a network of blood vessels and organs lying under the skin. It plays a part in keeping your immune system healthy. It acts like a garbage disposal system by draining the waste and bacteria from the body.
However, the lymphatic drainage system may not function properly due to illness or other physical issues. Due to the problems in the lymphatic drainage system, the lymph fluid collects in the arms and legs. It leads to edema or swelling.
French massage therapist Emil Vodder and Estrid Vodder, a naturopath, developed the lymphatic drainage massage after extensive study on the lymphatic system and its vessels. The gentle massage style focuses on aiding the lymph flow through the body. Lymphatic drainage massage targets the lymphatic system to move the fluid to working lymph vessels.
A trained masseuse uses gentle strokes to massage the body and promote fluid draining. Lymphatic drainage massage is a powerful tool to eliminate edema in people with compromised immune systems due to injury, illness, or surgery.
Working Of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system in the body. It operates by moving the lymph through the circulatory system. It leads to the flushing of toxic waste from the body. Lymphatic drainage massage or manual lymphatic drainage can move the lymph to the natural path for more efficient functioning.
When done by an expert masseuse, you can enjoy several lymphatic drainage massage benefits. It includes reducing the excess fluid accumulated in the tissues and better immune system functioning. Undergoing manual lymphatic drainage can shape your body and enhance your overall wellness.
The massage therapists use gentle upward strokes to push the lymph to the drainage points under a person’s collarbones. They also apply gentle pressure on the lymph nodes and massage the neck, abdomen, chest, groin, armpits, and knees.
The massage therapists focus on the exact location of lymph nodes in the body. During the massage, they also check for swollen lymph nodes that feel different to touch.
They can detect the swollen lymph nodes with the change in skin color due to the fluid accumulation and excess pressure in the area. The massage therapists constantly move the strokes upward to follow the natural trajectory of the lymphatic system drainage.
Difference Between Lymphatic Drainage Massage And Deep Tissue Massage for your Health
Is deep tissue massage and lymphatic drainage massage the same? While people choose deep tissue massage to feel relaxed, it differs from manual lymphatic drainage. In deep tissue massage, the therapist works deep into the muscles.
The therapists work on tissues closer to the skin surface in manual lymphatic drainage. It makes you feel relaxed without causing redness or bruising of the skin. Clients may see reduced swelling in their limbs. It may give them a slimmer and less bloated appearance.
Benefits Of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Why should you book an appointment for a lymphatic drainage massage? Here are some benefits of manual lymphatic drain.
1. It May Debloat And Depuff
Fluid retention can occur commonly in all people around their legs or belly. Water weight due to fluid accumulation may lead to bloating and puffiness. Massage therapists can ease the fluid towards lymph nodes with lymphatic drainage massage. It can make you feel more energized and lighter.
2. It Can Break Down Fall Cells And Cellulite
The massage therapist can focus on cellulite using manual lymphatic drainage. Over time, it can smoothen the dimpled skin. Undergoing the massage may also aid in the fat cell breakdown. Some clients have reported that manual lymphatic drainage may have contributed to faster weight loss.
3. It May Enhance The Glow Of The Skin
Massaging the skin improves blood circulation. It can lead to glowing skin. Apart from draining toxins, lymphatic drainage can boost blood circulation. Clients may notice a glow to their skin due to the stimulated blood flow.
4. It Can Reduce Post-Injury Swelling
Injuries can happen at any time. When you develop one, the affected area may not circulate fluid properly. It leads to swelling. When you observe excess puffiness, it indicates the malfunctioning of the lymphatic system. Undergoing a manual lymphatic drain may ease swelling.
5. Manual Lymphatic Drainage May Optimize Liposuction Results
Clients undergoing body sculpting treatment or liposuction can book manual lymphatic drainage after the treatment to boost the result. You can reduce swelling and improve the contoured results. You can book an appointment after consulting your doctor for the best results.
6. It Can Ease Tension In The Body
The massage therapist uses gentle strokes to ensure good relaxation. Sweeping gestures can increase blood circulation. It also boosts lymph flow. Hence, you feel built-up tension draining away. People with pent-up mental stress can allow a massage therapist to release stress. It may make you feel good.
Tips To Maximize The Benefits Of Lymphatic Massage
Lymphatic massage may offer complete therapy to the body. However, you can follow some tips to maximize the benefits. These tips can continue the process of gentle detoxification, starting with the lymphatic drainage massage. Following it after the lymphatic massage may result in enjoying the positive effects longer.
- Ensure good hydration after the massage to move and process lymph with efficiency.
- After the massage, eat a light meal. Avoid heavy meals that can overwhelm the digestive system.
- Stimulating the circulatory system can ensure better processing of the lymph. You can try some light exercises like yoga, short walks, or Pilates to maximize the positive impact of the massage.
- You can feel tired after the massage. Try to get a good night’s sleep to relax the body and calm the nervous system.
Conclusion
A lymphatic drainage massage may help you feel calm. Consult an expert to determine if the lymphatic drainage massage can benefit you. People with health issues like heart problems or kidney ailments must avoid manual lymphatic drain.
Also, you must book an appointment with a certified massage therapist to enjoy the benefits. Only a skilled and experienced masseuse can complete the massage without errors. They use proper techniques to give clients the best results.
