The lymphatic system is one of the most important systems in the body and rarely discussed. It helps to filter the white blood cells and destroy any infections that may be present. It also filters any waste products, toxins, or excessive proteins that can cause swelling. In order to have healthy bodies, our lymphatic system has to be able to drain properly. If it doesn’t, it stagnates becoming congested and we get sick.

What most people don’t know is that the lymphatic systems works differently than blood vessels. Instead of the lymphatic system pumping with the help of the heart, it just circulates. Exercising, deep breathing, eating properly, and massages help to create a healthy lymphatic system.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLDM) is a technique that is very delicate, rhythmic, and light massage, touching only the skin. This type of massage causes a pumping action that helps to circulate the lymph throughout the body promoting filtration of the white blood cells. This action pushes the lymph to the lymph nodes (which are in the groin, under the arm, and neck area), and then it is sent to the vena cava to filter the toxins out. Lymphatic drainage massage has been shown to help reduce swelling in the limbs, reduce colds, and help decrease healing time after surgeries.

Here are some signs that you may have a sluggish system: acne (along the jawline, near the ears, cheeks, and/or sides of the mouth and chin, this is where lymph vessels run close to the surface), swollen lymph nodes (in the groin, under the arm, or neck area), allergies, fatigue, frequent colds, flu, and other illnesses that indicate a weak immune system.

For more information on Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, contact Amanda Lewis, LMT at 321-917-2947. She is a certified MLDM therapist with the Vodder technique. She is located at 320 4th Ave Indialantic.