Lymphatic massage benefits

Can Massage really help the Lymphatic System?

Yes! It does wonders. Let me tell you about it.

The Lymphatic System plays an important role in health and disease by fighting off infection, expelling toxins and maintaining the body’s fluid balance. It sits just under the skin and around our organs. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph from the tissues via lymph nodes, lymph ducts and then into veins that drain directly into the heart.

“Lymph” was named after the Greek nymph – a mythical creature associated with clear streams – and the Roman Lympha, goddesses of fresh water.

Unlike our blood circulatory system, our lymphatic circulatory system does not have a pumping mechanism like the heart. Lymph is propelled throughout the body and moved towards the heart by muscular contractions of the lymphatic vessels (these are one-way valves).

How does your lymph propel along the lymph pathways?

• Movement

• Exercise

• Deep breathing

• Massage

• Dry brushing

Lymphocytes are the cells of our lymphatic system made up of white blood cells and include both B cells and T cells. B cells produce antibodies to attack invading pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. And T cells destroy our body’s own cells if they become cancerous or infected. Lymphocytes travel around the body conducting pathogen surveillance for invading bugs. They circulate between lymph nodes, lymph and the blood.

Did you know we also have lymphatic vessels in our airways and digestive system to fight the bugs we may breathe, eat or drink. And our lymph system also absorbs dietary fat from our intestines assisting with weight management.

Lymphatic Massage Techniques

• With specialised training your massage therapist (like Tarren at Touch Body Mind) will use stretching and stroking techniques to move fluid along your lymphatic pathways towards your heart. This will help maintain fluid balance, reduce oedema (swelling) and improve the function of your lymphatic system.

• An Australian study has found that lymphatic massage reduced pain, depression and fatigue in cancer patients.

• Lymphatic facial massage and traditional Chinese techniques of Gua Sha and Jade Rollers can increase blood flow and lymph flow, if they are used correctly.

How to look after your Lymphatic System?

• Exercise regularly

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Eat a diet rich in antioxidants and not high in salt

• Minimise alcohol consumption

• Consider partaking in regular Lymphatic Massage

Written by Tarren Hehir, Remedial and Lymphatic Massage Therapist
Treating the people of Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, Collingwood, Carlton, Carlton North, Brunswick, Abbotsford, Clifton Hill, Richmond