Enlighten Massage Blog: Lymphatic Drainage Massage, What Is It and How It Can Benefit You
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Simply put, a lymphatic drainage massage is a form of soft massage that restores the movement of lymph fluids around the body. Initially developed in the 1930s by Danish physicians Emil and Estrid Vodder as a treatment for lymphedema. Lymphedema is the swelling that occurs in your arms or legs, it is most caused by the removal of or damage to your lymph nodes as part of cancer treatment. When blockage occurs, this prevents lymph fluid from draining and the build-up causes swelling.
Lymphatic drainage massage uses very mild pressure and long, gentle rhythmic strokes to increase the flow of lymph and reduce toxins in your body. This type of massage often leaves people feeling sleepy and relaxed, you may want to rest or minimize your commitments for the remainder of the day.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is our bodies ‘discharge system’, made up of a network of delicate tubes that run throughout the body draining fluid that has been removed from the blood vessels into the tissues and back into the bloodstream via lymph nodes. A lymphatic system that is blocked with fluid can become toxic and harm our immune system.
The fluid in the lymphatic systems helps remove toxins from bodily tissues. Lymphatic drainage massages can benefit with lymphedema, fibromyalgia and other conditions such as:
- Swelling or Edema
- Skin Disorders
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Insomnia
- Digestive Problems
- Arthritis
- Migraine Episodes
How Can a Lymphatic Drainage Massage Benefit You?
An effective lymphatic system is integral to a person’s immunity, inflammation and overall healing. Lymphatic drainage is one of the ways to achieving that efficiency. There are many benefits to receiving a lymphatic drainage massage and even if you don’t have any of the conditions listed above, you can still walk away feeling very relaxed and even revived afterwards. Some of the benefits of lymphatic drainage are:
- Improves Appearance of Skin
- Detoxes Your Body
- Reduces Headaches
- Promotes Healing
- Reduces Swelling
- Helps You to Feel Relaxed