Do you show love to your Lymphatic System? The lymphatic system is made up of a network of vessels through which lymph drains from tissues into the blood. It is part of the immune system. Tissues, vessels, and organs work together to move a colorless, watery fluid called lymph back into the circulatory system (bloodstream). The lymphatic system is located right below the skin surface. Our lymph passages run throughout our bodies. They are responsible for moving lymph carrying internal and external toxins and pathogens, making sure they remove from the body properly. We are talking about bacteria, environmental toxins, viruses, and cellular waste; they all travel through these pathways to the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes are cleansing stations where lymph is filtered and purified. When lymph becomes stagnate, our cells are not able to work as efficiently. Inefficient cells cause toxins to build up, which results in a plethora of health issues.
Stay Hydrated
Drink more water! Staying hydrated is vital to keep the lymph moving and draining properly. Lymph contains 95% water, which is the reason why it is so important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration is the most common reason for lymph congestion. It would be best if you drank approximately half your body weight in ounces of water each day. If it is challenging to drink water, add lemon slices, mint, berries, or herbs. (Check out our blog post about staying hydrated)
Move More
Daily workouts are a great way to "pump" the lymph through the body to expel the toxins. Working out also increases your breathing rate, improves circulation, and encourages water intake, which is excellent for improving your lymphatic drainage. (Jumping, jogging, and yoga are some great ones for getting the lymph moving!)
Dry Brushing
Dry brushing has been around for centuries. This technique originates from the Ayurveda medicine tradition to improve lymphatic flow and increase blood circulation. Use a dry bristle brush and brush your skin towards your heart. The movement encourages the lymph and blood to move out of the organs, tissue and circulate within the body.
Infrared Sweating
If you aren't new here, you already know how obsessed I am with Purify infrared detox sessions! Purify is my happy place, my relaxing time out, and offers many fantastic health benefits! One of those benefits is improving lymphatic drainage. As the body heats up, it enhances the blood circulation but also the lymph. While you are lying down wrapped up, you are in parasympathetic nervous system mode (you're relaxed). Did you know that stress is one of the culprits for slowing down lymph drainage? So relaxing and increasing the flow is very important for your health!
Eat More Raw Vegetables
Raw fruits and vegetables contain enzymes and antioxidants that help break down toxins. Leafy greens are essential as they contain chlorophyll, a potent cleansing nutrient that cleanses both lymph and blood. Many of these foods are also high in water content, so they help keep us hydrated.
Practice Deep Breathing
Ten to fifteen minutes each day of diaphragm breathing can act as a pressure pump to get the lymph moving. This can significantly improve the lymphatic flow. If you want, you can combine the breathing practice while in your purify infrared session.
Get a Massage
It does not have to be a deep tissue massage to get the lymph flowing. Massages help get the lymph moving so it can drain. You could also book a lymph detox session at Purify for fifteen minutes before your infrared detox session. There are also specific lymphatic massages you can try out too.
Burn your bra
There is a cluster of lymph nodes found in the chest, armpits, breasts, and arms. When we wear tight, unfitted, wired bras, it inhibits the lymph to flow correctly. Stagnation of the lymph can contribute to swollen lymph nodes, fibrocystic breast tissue, and breast cancer. Burn your bras!!
Move your lymph system. Lymph is like a sewage system that carries all of the toxins out of your body. Book a session at Purify An Urban Sweat Lodge today!
Warmly,
Samantha Albano
Comments