Lymphatic Massage

What is Lymphatic Massage ?

The Lymphatic system is made up of lymph, lymph vessels, a series of small masses of lymphoid tissue called lymph nodes, and three organs: the tonsils, thymus, and spleen. Generally, lymph fluid is composed of 96% water, fats, glucids (substances that break down sugars), proteins, enzymes, urea, minerals, hormones, some dissolved gases (carbon dioxide), white blood cells, toxins, bacteria, body wastes and cell debris. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to collect excess tissue fluid, invading micro­organisms, damaged cells, protein molecules that are too large or other substances that are too toxic to return directly to the blood through capillary walls.

Lymphatic massage increases lymphatic circulation through the body's natural filtration systems thereby detoxifying the body and supporting our health and vitality. A lymphatic massage can move as much as 30 liters of lymph (compared to 2-3 liters under normal conditions) and double the production of white blood cells. It also relieves pain due to nerve inflammation, tissue congestion and poor circulation. For anyone under stress, who has suffered an injury, has been ill or inactive, a lymphatic massage can be a boost to their health. Conditions that respond positively to lymphatic massage include: poor circulation, swelling from injury or surgery, joint inflammation, depressed immune response, chronic colds with sinus and/or ear infections, menstrual problems, allergies, chronic fatigue, skin problems, digestive problems, depression and insomnia.

Classical massage techniques have no lymph draining effect. To effectively move lymph fluid, a lymphatic massage employs a combination of pumping motions and gentle, rhythmical stroking. Lymphatic massage is very gentle and nurturing yet has a powerful effect physiologically. Special aromatherapy oils can be added to enhance circulation and promote feelings of well-being. Most people report that they feel extremely relaxed afterward and, after a nights sleep, feel greatly revitalized.

Contraindications for Lymphatic massage: Lymphangitis (inflammation of the lymphatics), acute febrile diseases, swellings that might be a malignancy, skin infections, acute inflammation caused by poisons, bacterial or viral infection (can lead to blood poisoning), cardiac insufficiency, phlebitis, thrombosis, or other vascular diseases, or any infectious bone disease. A physician's consent is required in all conditions of severe edema or whenever there is an underlying pathology.