Keeping your lymphatic system flowing is necessary for optimal health
We are exposed to a ton of toxins daily and our body has natural detoxication processes to deal with these toxins. This is where the lymphatic system comes in play. The lymphatic system cleanses the fluid that surrounds the cells in the body by removing impurities and waste products. It is also responsible for maintaining a balance of fluids within the body’s network of lympatic vessels and nodes. This helps cells in the body to function properly.
However for a variety of reasons such as lifestyle choices – diet & nutrition, de-hydration, certain medical conditions, injuries, after surgery, adjusting to a change of season, unprocessed emotions can be the cause of toxins building up. When our organs become overburdened and our system can become sluggish causing accumulation of fluid and toxins throughout the body, often in the limbs. This compromises our overall health.
An unhealthy lymphatic system can cause a variety of symtoms and even lead to more serious health problems.
The reality is, most people have never heard of lymphatic drainage or even give much thought to their lymphatic system. This is because it is not often talked about, however, in 2012 researchers at The University of Southern California (USC) made this statement: “… the lymphatic system is no less essential than the blood circulatory system for human health and well-being.” Researchers found that the lymphatic system is vital for both tissue repair and controlling inflammation in most organs of the human body. Ineffective drainage of the lymphatic system, results in an impaired immune system, or even tumours in the lymph nodes.
The lymphatic system is a fluid system that requires constant flow. Some ways to support and encourage optimal flow in your lymphatic system and the body’s natural detox processes are:
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic massage/manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle, non-invasive technique that can have a powerful effect on the body, working directly on the lymphatic system. It is also valuable as a wellbeing treatment for anyone who wants to give their system an overall cleanse and boost.
Aromatherapy Treatments
The use of essential oils can assist the body to detox. Some key essential oils that I have found useful to assist lymphatic draining – stagnant fluid in the body are:
Lemon, Geranium, Grapefruit, Juniper, Cypress, Cedarwood, Peppermint, Ginger
These can be combined with a manual lymphatic drainage massage as well as applied daily as a body oil.
As everyone has unique needs these need to be taken into account when selecting essential oils to assist with lymphatic drainage or for other wellbeing needs.
Herbal Teas
There are many herbs that can assist with fluid flow and balance and the organs of detoxification – especially spleen and liver. Warm water is also useful to assist the lymphatic system.
Food
Eating a variety of local seasonal, organic is best for our overall health and wellbeing including lymphatic health. There is a lot of toxins in our food and its hard to avoid them. The body has to process everything consumed, being aware of what is contained in what you are consuming is important. If it isn’t grow in soil by nature then it has low or basically now nutritional value. Commit too doing what you can.
Water
Well hydrated cells are necessary in order for the lymph to move toxins through and out of the body.
Movement
The body needs to move in order for the lymph to move, any form of exercise is good the the lymphatic system – walking, rebounding qi gong and yin yoga are especially good.
Dry Skin Brushing
Dry brushing stimulates the circulatory and lymphatic system to help eliminate toxins and relieve lymphatic congestion.
Castor Oil Packs
An age old treatment these have the ability to improve lymphatic flow. To stimulate the lymphatic system apply to the lower abdomen.
Eliminating or limiting electronic and environmental pollutants
Having time away from electronic devices is extremely important especially when sleeping.
Being aware and limiting environmental toxins, chemicals and pollutants is also just as important.
Sweating
Perspiration is one of the best way to get rid of toxins. Saunas and bath raise our bodies temperature, thus sweat glands.