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What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage and its main benefits?

By Rakhee Dodhia
from Sacred Space Healing

It’s not surprising that Lymphatic Drainage Massage has gained popularity in recent years, due to its numerous health benefits. This type of very gentle, therapeutic massage focuses on the lymphatic system, encouraging the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. The lymph system plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system and Lymphatic Drainage Massage can therefore significantly support and improve overall immune function.

One of the main benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage is to reduce swelling and oedema in the body. Oedema can be associated with the extremities, such as the arms, legs, hands and feet. An article in Medical News Today discusses the benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage and its use in reducing oedema in the body. The gentle, rhythmic massage techniques used in Lymphatic Drainage Massage promote the flow of lymphatic fluid, reducing swelling and restoring a normal range of motion.

Oedema is one complication that can occur following breast cancer treatment, where lymph nodes are removed or treated with radiation. The oedema can present shortly after surgery or even many years later. The disruption in the flow of lymph leads to swelling, which, if left untreated, can become severe and lead to infection. Lymphatic Drainage Massage has been shown to help reduce this congestion by increasing the rate of lymphatic flow.

The lymphatic system is the most important transport network for our immune system and is responsible for producing and transporting white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Numerous studies have shown that massage, especially Lymphatic Drainage Massage, improved the functioning of the immune system, as measured by the number of white blood cells and antibodies produced.

Being gentle and rhythmic in nature, Lymphatic Drainage Massage has been shown to have a calming effect on the body, helping to relieve stress and anxiety.  Lymphatic Drainage Massage can also help to reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. By stimulating the flow of lymphatic fluid, which in turn helps to increase blood flow, Lymphatic Drainage Massage can lead to an overall improvement in circulation, and therefore energy levels.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that Lymphatic Drainage Massage improved the appearance of cellulite, as well as increasing skin elasticity and hydration, having an overall positive effect on skin health and appearance.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a very gentle, safe and effective way to promote overall health and well-being. If you are looking for a natural way to improve your health, consider giving Lymphatic Drainage Massage a try.

 

Resources:

Medical News Today

Massage Magazine

Cleveland Clinic

Melbourne Integrative Oncology Group

Hopkins Medicine

Massage & The Immune System

National Library of Medicine

More about the author

Rakhee Dodhia
Rakhee Dodhia
– Sacred Space Healing

Rakhee is a Remedial Massage Therapist, with a practice in Bilgola, on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Of Indian origin, Rakhee, grew up surrounded by the ancient healing world of Ayurveda and has developed a keen interest and practice of the same.