Fun Lymph Facts!
Do you have an armpit or an arm puff?
Take a peak at your armpit in the mirror. Does it have a distinctive concave shape or does it kind of stay at a similar depth as your arm and torso? If it isn't making a "pit" then it is a good sign that your lymphatic system is backed up. The armpit (or puff) region is filled with a good portion of your lymph nodes and is a common place for congestion to accumulate.
Other signs of a sluggish lymphatic system can include but are not limited to: colds, flu and sinus problems, edema and excess water retention, heart disease, fibrocystic and tender breasts, cellulite, enlarged prostate and cancer, puffy eyes, fatigue, excess weight, cellulite, swelling, cancer, arthritic joints, swollen glands, pain, autoimmune disease, fibromyalgia, muscle stiffness, headaches, allergies, GI disturbances, anemia, flu, hypertension, dizziness, nasal/throat congestion, and much more.
Are you Detoxing or Draining?
Detoxification is the process of removing toxic substances from the body. The human body has systems in place to naturally detoxify toxins we are exposed to on a regular basis. Certain organs facilitate taking toxins from the bloodstream and excreting them in feces, urine, sweat and blood if female and still menstruating. However, when our body is exposed to too many toxins, it gets overwhelmed and doesn’t operate as efficiently at detoxing. Essentially it is your cells pushing out toxins which can lead to flu like symptoms and make us feel worse. This is why drainage is so important before, during and after any kind of a detoxification of the body.
Drainage is the gentle practice of opening up the pathways of the elimination organs so that all the toxins have somewhere to drain into and then ultimately out of the body. If not, toxins are recirculated throughout the body and contributes to us feeling worse (commonly called herxing or the flu like symptoms) and possibly making our situation worse. When we detox it should be a slow process and it shouldn't make us feel sick like most people have come to think. Starting with the lymphatic system is critical to opening the drainage pathways and doing things like sweating, hydrating, or taking supplements to support the liver or kidneys as they rid the body of toxins. Exercising, eating fiber rich foods, drinking water with electrolytes, and sauna sessions will all assist the body in naturally opening these pathways.
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Did you know you have a Glymphatic System? Lymph in your brain!
Yes, even our brain has its own lymphatic system which helps detox the tissue and fluid surrounding the precious brain tissue. This system was only discovered recently in 2015. This critical system can't drain unless the rest of the lymphatic system is draining as well. So the more you clean your lymphatic system throughout your body the better your brain/head will drain these critical toxins often associated with degenerati issues such as dementia or Alzheimers as well as general cognitive issues, brain fog or hormone issues. Side note, this system is most active while we sleep so it is yet another reason why getting consistent healthy sleep is so critical to our health.
How can I clean my lymphatic system myself?
How can you support your lymphatic system and keep your tank in tip top condition?
Movement/Rebounding
When you exercise and move your body, it activates lymphatic flow throughout the body. Exercising is the best way of increasing lymphatic function. It doesn't have to be vigorous exercise, gentle to moderate intensity is all you need, the key is doing it every day.
Additionally, rebounding (jumping on a small trampoline) is a great way to get your lymphatic system moving and it can be done in just 10 minutes a day.
Deep breathing
Relaxed and deep breathing activates the lymphatic system. Focus on filling up your belly and noticing your diaphragm move upwards. Most people do not breathe deeply throughout the day. Try to be more in tune with your breath and avoid shallow mouth breathing.
Skin brushing and self lymphatic massage
There is a link for a video on the resources page for both skin brushing and self lymphatic massage, also called The Big Six by Dr. Perry Nickelston. Both are ideal if you can incorporate it into your daily routine for just 5 minutes each per day or longer. It’s completely up to you!
Hydration
Ensure you are drinking 2 litres of water every day. Your whole body needs regular hydration in order to function properly. The lymphatic system is no exception. The lymphatic system is made primarily of water and so it is vital that you are getting enough clean, filtered water for it to function.
Diet
Focus on whole foods, buy organic where possible and avoid processed foods with additives, colorings and sweeteners. And especially avoid Linoleic Acids which include basically any seed oil used in processed foods or at any restaurant. Sadly these are the most toxic oils we can be consuming. They are loaded with essential omega-6 fatty acid and include safflower oil, sunflower oil, grapeseed oil, corn oil, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, and rice bran oil. Yes, pretty much every health food store is using these in their "healthy" foods.
How Healthy Is Your Gut?
Did you know that 70% of your body’s immune system is in the gut? There are many lymph nodes in the gut; treating this area will not only help with puffiness, but it will also help with elimination of fecal matter that has built up & help boost the immune system.
This is a great therapy for anyone following a gut healing protocol or anyone suffering with leaky gut syndrome.
Castor Oil Packs and Your Lymphatic System
Castor oil packs are traditionally used to support the lymphatic system, encourage circulation, and promote gentle detoxification. When applied topically, castor oil may help stimulate lymphatic flow, reduce stagnation, and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Liver Area
May support lymphatic drainage around the liver, promote circulation, and encourage gentle detox support. Often used to help with bloating, sluggish digestion, and inflammation.
Thyroid / Neck
Applied to the neck, castor oil packs may help encourage lymphatic movement, reduce puffiness, support healthy tissue circulation, detoxification and hormone balance.
Breasts
May help support lymphatic drainage, reduce tenderness, fibrotic issues and ease fluid congestion in breast tissue.
Uterus / Lower Abdomen
Often used to promote circulation, reduce pelvic congestion, and support lymphatic movement in the reproductive organs. Can be beneficial for menstrual pain or menstrual regulation and similar issues.
Stomach / Abdomen
May help with bloating, digestion, constipation, parasites and related symptoms and lymphatic stagnation in the abdominal region.
Scars
Castor oil helps manage scars by moisturizing deeply, promoting circulation, and reducing inflammation, making scar tissue softer and less noticeable over time. Rich in ricinoleic acid, it aids in breaking down old scar tissue and adhesions, particularly when used with massage.
If you need support on how to perform scar massage therapy I am happy to show and teach this during your sessions.
How It Supports the Lymphatic System
Castor oil packs provide gentle warmth and compression, which may:
- Encourage lymphatic flow
- Reduce fluid stagnation
- Support detox pathways
- Decrease inflammation
- decrease constipation or GI issues
- Promote relaxation and parasympathetic response
- Decrease brain fog, bloating and improve overall energy
Thermography Scans
With the use of thermography scans, LET has been proven to immediately reduce inflammation in the areas treated. It is especially beneficial around the chest and breast tissue due to the gentle vibration. Women with fibrotic breast tissue or recovering from breast implant illness (BII) will find LET especially beneficial. If possible, it is ideal to have pre and post scans done with a series of LET treatments. I have recommendations for practitioners offering scans if you are interested.