The lymph system consists of the lymph vessels, valves to keep lymph flowing in the right direction, and lymph nodes to filter the lymph. The nodes also produce substances that help eliminate toxins and kill microorganisms. Lymph vessels occur throughout the body, while lymph nodes are particularly plentiful in the gastrointestinal tract, groin, neck and armpits.
Lymph is a clear thin fluid that delivers nutrients to tissues and organs. Lymph vessels also remove waste products and excess fluids from organs and between cells. To maintain optimal health, the body needs to have continuously flowing lymph. In fact, we have about three times as much lymph as we have blood in our bodies. However the lymph system does not have a pump, unlike the circulatory system which has the heart to push the blood through the body.
Thus in many cases the lymph does not move effectively through the body and stagnates. The result is that nutrients are not fully delivered to organs and tissues, and wastes are not properly eliminated. These effects lead to a host of health problems that can become increasingly serious.
Several techniques are available for improving lymph flow, including rebounding and dry skin brushing. Some massage therapists also offer manual lymph drainage. This technique incorporates gentle stroking and circular movements to stimulate the lymph nodes and help move lymph through the body, and is common in Europe.
The massage therapist uses the fingertips or fingers to gently massage from the extremities toward the heart. Extra time is spent at the ankles, knees, and groin, and at the elbows and armpits. The therapist also pays extra attention to the neck and chest. These are areas where lymph can become congested in lymph nodes.
When done properly, the benefits of lymph massage include clearer skin and improved disease resistance as well as improved muscle tone. Lymph massage can reduce pain and muscle spasms.
Simple self-massage is also possible, but does not replace a lymph massage from a trained therapist. In fact, even an inexperienced therapist may end up trading one problem for another by moving lymph from one congested area to another.
Because lymph massage can cause a release of toxins, a Herxheimer or cleansing reaction can result. Reduce the odds of having such a reaction by supporting the kidneys and liver with herbs, and by using dry skin brushing to help eliminate toxins through the skin.
Please read this disclaimer regarding the information contained within this article.