Lymph System
The Lymphatic or “Lymph” System is commonly known as “the garbage disposal system” of the body. It is often referred to as the “second circulatory system” and flows throughout the entire body. The Lymphatic System is a complex network of lymphoid organs, lymph nodes, lymph ducts, lymphatic tissues, lymph capillaries and lymph vessels that produce and transport lymph fluid from tissues to the circulatory system. The Lymphatic System is a major part of the immune system. It is through the Lymphatic System that toxic substances move out of the body through the bloodstream.
Why is it important for your health to maintain your Lymphatic System?
When your Lymphatic System is blocked or clogged (congested), this creates a condition of stagnation which promotes fatigue and ill health. Some of the common symptoms include lumps, bumps, pain and swelling.
How does the Lymphatic System become clogged or blocked?
Unlike the blood circulatory system, the Lymphatic System has no pump to keep fluid flowing. Some causes of a blocked lymph system are due in part to stress, lack of exercise, improper diet and repressed communication.
What are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. All the small and medium-sized lymph vessels open into lymph nodes which are situated in strategic positions throughout the body. The lymph drains through a number of nodes, usually 8 to 10, before returning to the blood. These nodes vary considerably in size: some as small as a pin head and the largest are about the size of an almond. An enlargement of these nodes is common in inflammation and malignant disease.
Suggestions for Lymphatic Congestion
Dry Skin Brushing– Your skin, the largest organ in the human body is an organ of elimination. One third of your body’s toxins are excreted through the skin and dry brushing helps to unclog pores and excrete toxins that become trapped in the skin
Manual Lymphatic Massage– The therapist gently rubs, strokes, taps or pushes the skin in directions that follow the structure of the lymphatic system so that accumulated lymph fluid can drain through proper channels. Lymphatic drainage is very gentle, is not painful and doesn’t have a stimulating effect. (Contact our office for a listing of local Certified Lymphatic Massage Therapists)
Rebounding- Great for the lymphatic system– Rebounding creates an increased G-force resistance (gravitational load) and positively stresses every cell in your body. As a result, it strengthens your entire musculoskeletal system: your bones, muscles, connective tissue, and even organs. And it promotes lymphatic circulation by stimulating the millions of one-way valves in your lymphatic system.
Electro-Lymphatic Therapy– Electro-Lymphatic Therapy is a gentle, light touch non-invasive technique to stimulate the proper flow and drainage of the lymphatic system. A combination of vibration, light, and electrical waves help to stimulate the flow of lymph.Contact our office for providers.
Healthy Girls Breast Oil–The Healthy Girls® Breast Oil formulation, when applied with a loving, lymphatic self-breast massage stimulates the immune system, softens breast tissue, helps to decrease pain and tenderness, while nurturing and protecting breast tissue.
Breast Health Project– The Breast Health Project has created a new model of breast care based on holistic medicine, using the best of eastern and western therapies.
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