6 ways to increase lymphatic drainage

The lymphatic system is the primary component of our immune system. It contains lymphocytes, white blood cells that destroy bacteria and then help carry infection from the body.

The lymph also plays a major role in maintaining the acid/alkaline balance in the body. When the lymph glands become congested and flow is obstructed, the area surrounding our glands becomes overly acidic, creating a domino effect of cascading pathology.

The breast have a high concentration of lymphatic tissue and glands. For the health of the body is crucial to keep the lymph system flowing freely.

The lymphatic system has no pump to automatically drain it self, it relies on movement to clear when congested. There are many things you can do to increase and assist your lymph drainage. Here are a few of my favorite. 

Manual Massage- the lymph is a delicate fluid network that sits right under the skin so the intensity of your pressure in the massage matters. Light soft pressure is crucial to my the fluid to drainage points. The biggest drainage portals I like to call them are in the Neck, collarbone, armpits, stomach, groin and behind the knees. Gentle circular motions towards these portals will help to bring the waste to the drainage points and out of the body. A professional lymphatic massage is the best but not everyone has the time or money to seek professional massages. Gentle massage after shower with your favorite body oil can make an impact. 

Dry Brush and Gua Sha- Your hands work well but tools can give us different techniques of massage. These tools are great for opening up clogged portals and stimulating circulation and flow. 

Walking- Simply walking for at least 10-20 minutes a day can increase your drainage. When you ankle moves up and down during walking this acts as a manual pump to stimulate movement in your lymphatic system.

Rebounder- jumping on a trampoline such as a rebounder is a big boost to your flow. Like walking your ankle manually pumps your flow into motion. The act of jumping increases this x10. Just 2 minutes on the bounder a day can make a world of difference. If you do not have a rebounder you can still do this movement by simple jumping up and down in place or holding on the wall while pumping ankles up and down. 

Herbs- There are many herbs that help with stimulating drainage. Some of my favorite include Calendula, Spearmint, Cayenne, Burdock, Sarsaparilla, 

Sauna- infrared saunas trigger the body into sweating out toxins that can be stuck in your system. This release will take some of the heavy burden placed on a clogged system. 

These are just a few of my personal favorites for maintaining a healthy lymphatic system.