LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
“Keep your lymphatic system flowing smoothly and your entire system will go with the flow.’ – Our Pure Family
ABOUT
Lymph is a colorless fluid containing white blood cells, lipids and macromolecules that circulates throughout the entire body via the complex network known as the lymphatic system.[42] It is part of the immune system that monitors and regulates foreign substances in the body and flushes toxins out of the system.[39] It also helps to modulate acute and chronic pro-inflammatory cells which could otherwise fuel illness in the body such as cardiovascular and bowel disease.[39]
The lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump like the heart does, but relies on physical activity for animation, similarly to the Venous system, which makes exercise important for lymphatic health.[39]
HOW TO KEEP YOUR LYMPH IN FLOW
PHYSICAL SUPPORT
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE: Any massage is useful to get things moving under the skin, but lymphatic drainage massage is specifically to aid the cleansing of this important detoxification mechanism.
SELF MASSAGE: Self Lymphatic Drainage massage. See the video here for some simple techniques to assist the lymph nodes to flush out.
Self Healing & Cleansing Lymphatic Massage Drainage – Dr. Alan Mandell, D.C.: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViykneTyMvI
MASSAGE LYMPH NODES: A helpful practise in the shower is to take a body brush or loofah and gently massage in circular motion the areas behind the knees, in the groin, and under the arm pits, where the body has a higher concentration of lymph nodes.
REFLEXOLOGY: There is a pressure point on top of the foot between the big toe and second toe that activates the lymphatic system. Please see the video below for details. SIMPLE DIY Lymph Drainage | Reflexology Point for Lymphedema, Swelling and Edema: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD9IUwTSidI
DRY BRUSHING: Is an excellent way to incorporate lymphatic drainage into your daily routine. Please see Flush First – Dry Brushing for further details.[43]
EXERCISE: Vigorous movement helps the lymphatic system do it job, so get walking, dancing, yoga, swimming, or anything else you feel to do.
REBOUNDING: This simple bouncing movement on a trampoline allows every cell to stretch and cleanse themselves. If you don’t have a rebounder, going for a quick run is also great.[43]
SHOWERING: Having a cold rinse after your hot shower makes blood rush from the organs out to the limbs, causing a flushing of the blood throughout the body which is very cleansing – and invigorating!
BATHS: A hot bath which is hot enough to raise the heart rate a little will also help to flush the lymph. Add some sea salt and magnesium for a cleansing and nourishing soak. Up to 20 minutes is great, especially with a cold shower afterwards.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT
- Lemon juice – in water first thing in the morning is a great general cleanser for your detoxification pathways.[43]
- Dandelion greens – are great for detoxification. Please see the listing on this site.
- Keto diet – fat fuels the lymphatic system while carbohydrates cause inflammation.[38]
- Anti-inflammatory diet – stick to fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthy proteins and fats, and stay away from processed foods and carbohydrates, for optimum lymphatic health.
- Potassium – use a supplement or preferably get it from your diet. Found in broccoli, bananas, fresh seafood, legumes, wholegrains, nuts, seeds and meat.[43]
ENERGETIC SUPPORT
Here are some suggested statements for your prayers, meditation, kinesiology or other inner work.
STATEMENTS FOR THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
- My lymphatic system is healthy, vibrant and balanced.
- My lymphatic system is functioning at optimum efficiency.
- I naturally make healthy dietary and lifestyle choices to support my lymphatic system.
- My body is cleansing itself with ease and grace.
- My detoxification pathways are working in harmony and balance.
VIDEOS
[38] Erkstam R, 2021, How does a keto diet improve the lymphatic system?, Robert Erkstam – Self Care Therapy @ Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PqvnbS5Axkg
[39] Berg E, 2016, What is the Lymphatic System And How it Functions?, Dr. Eric Berg DC @ Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Br14hzqKM7U
[40] Mandell A, 2017, Self Healing & Cleansing Lymphatic Massage Drainage, Dr. Alan Mandell D.C. @ Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViykneTyMvI
[41] Dr Melissa, 14 April 2018, SIMPLE DIY Lymph Drainage | Reflexology Point for Lymphedema, Swelling and Edema, Natural Health Resources @ Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD9IUwTSidI