Get Your Lymph Flowing

Have you ever heard of the lymphatic system? 

The lymphatic system has one of the most critical jobs within our body, yet many of us are completely oblivious to it. It’s basically your body’s “trash can”. It’s responsible for filtering and removing waste products from your body’s cells, tissues, and organs.

The lymphatic system moves lymph through your body’s cells, tissues, and organs. It’s a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells that also contains proteins, minerals, nutrients, and other substances which your body needs to be healthy. Your lymph removes the “ickies” from the body, such as damaged cells, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful things while simultaneously keeping the goodness flowing throughout.

Your lymph nodes work as filters for the lymph fluid. Some you can feel with your fingers, especially when they are swollen because they sit right under the skin like under the armpits and in the neck area.  There are also those that are located deeper inside the body like those in the abdomen, pelvis, and chest.

Symptoms Of A Sluggish Lymphatic System

When your lymph system gets backed up and stops moving so freely, the harmful stuff doesn’t get removed from your body like it needs to. This will start to show up as symptoms such as:

• Headaches 
• Brain fog
• Fatigue
• Excess mucus/congestion
• Ear popping/ ringing
• Frequent illnesses, sore throat
• Constipation or sluggish bowel function
• Weight loss issues
• Soreness or stiffness in the morning
• Bloating, swelling, or heaviness in extremities
• Pain, pressure, or stiffness
• Skin issues

If things stay stagnant, and the flow cannot move freely, serious health issues can occur, including swelling, infection, and inflammation. The good news is that there is plenty you can do to help. 

Dry Skin Brushing

Dry skin brushing stimulates the lymphatic system as well. It helps to encourage the movement of lymph through the lymph vessels. Here’s a quick video explaining how to dry brush. You want to make sure that you get a tough bristled brush, and not a soft bristled brush. Light strokes is all it will take.

Movement

The lymphatic system doesn’t have an automatic pump or continuous flow like the circulatory system, so it needs help to be stimulated. Lymph travels in one only upward toward your neck. Moving your body causes muscle contractions that help this system transport lymph throughout your body. Deep breathing is another amazing form of movement that promotes proper flow. 

Massage

Massage may help encourage the flow of lymph as well. Special massage techniques promote lymphatic drainage, including long, gentle, rhythmic strokes and soft pumping movements toward the lymph nodes. If you need a recommendation, I highly recommend Alicia Moody with Dynamic Flow if you are in the Acadiana area. It is wise to consult with your massage therapist beforehand to discuss any concerns you may have with your lymphatic system.

Hydration

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again and again. Hydration is EVERYTHING. Your lymphatic system is made up of about 95% water. If you are dehydrated, your lymph cannot flow properly because it becomes thicker. Drink enough water daily, and make sure to replenish minerals.

Nutrients

Everything you put into your body will impact everything within it in some way. Processed foods slow the lymphatic system flow, so you will want to limit your intake of these foods. Consuming a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients is good for the lymphatic system. There is some evidence that eating a diet filled with alkaline-rich foods may be beneficial for the lymphatic system. 

Stress

It is critical that you manage stress. Stress promotes acidity within the body because of stress hormones. These hormones can contribute to sluggish lymph flow. Utilizing tools such as meditation and yoga can be very beneficial in helping to manage stress, but also to encourage proper breathing. Breathing promotes the flow. Giving your body rest and utilizing deep breaths are excellent ways to promote overall wellness.

Natural Health Consultations

Often, our lifestyle is what slows down our lymphatic system. In a one-on-one natural health consultation, we will discuss the factors that set this system and others back, as well as focus on ways to balance out and promote our overall well being. For more information on how you can get in on one of these sessions, contact us at lhllholistics@gmail.com or by clicking HERE.

Credentials are not intended to reflect licensure or certification as a health care provider in Louisiana. Food or dietary supplements referenced do not constitute medically prescribed drugs.