A Lesson in Lymphatics
A light-touch modality with a high impact.
Lymphatic drainage massage, also called manual lymphatic drainage, is a specialized medical massage.
Rising in popularity in recent years, it is an intervention that is suitable to almost anyone, while being especially indicated for some. Read on to see if lymphatic drainage may be an especially good fit for you.
The lymphatic system is an oft-overlooked part of our bodies' “waste removal” functions, frequently outshone by the liver or the kidneys. Our lymph channels are intertwined with our veins, running alongside them, permeating our entire body. They collect metabolic waste such as old hormones and spent immune cells, eventually connecting with our urinary system to be flushed out.
When our body is working extra hard, as in sickness or after a surgery, our lymphatic system bares the brunt, tasked with flushing the excess. We can see how consistent lymph flow is integral to our health; many of us are unconsciously aware of this already, by checking the sides of our neck for lymphatic swelling to indicate an incoming cold.