Three Tips to Support Your Lymphatic System
The Lymphatic System is our body’s “inner drainage system.”
Did you know your skin is a major detoxification organ?
We live in an ever-increasing toxic environment. Many of the toxins abundant in the environment today did not exist 30 years ago, including certain pesticides, herbicides, and industrial chemicals that can enter our bodies through the food, water, and air supplies.
The liver is our body’s primary detoxification organ. The liver detoxification pathways are going 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. And if you’re not eliminating toxins through the six organs of elimination - So if you’re not sweating, if you’re constipated, if you’re dehydrated, if you’re not breathing right, your liver is being asked to process an excessive amount of stuff. And this can cause major problems as toxins or xenobiotics bioaccumulate in the body. You have a cup that’s continually filling up until it manifests as an issue- disease - skin issues, dietary issues, autoimmune issues.
The Largest Organ of Elimination: The Skin
Our skin is the largest and most permeable organ. Harmful substances can be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream. Unfortunately, many of these substances are found in everyday lotions and sunscreens. Some chemicals, phthalates and fragrances, can enter our bloodstream through the skin and they tend to accumulate over time. Luckily, there are steps we can take to help reduce the bioaccumulation of chemicals in our bodies.
The Lymphatic System
Known as our body’s “inner drainage system,” the lymphatic network is crucial for moving fluids around the body and bolstering our immune system. It is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins. To keep our immune system strong and reduce the bioaccumulation of chemicals in our bodies, start using these lymphatic-boosting practices today:
Benefits of Dry Brushing: Use a ‘dry brush’ to massage your entire body before getting into the shower. Use a circular motion and work towards the heart. Then shower or bathe. This facilitates circulation and toxic elimination through the skin. Dry brushing will stimulate your lymphatic flow and reduce congestion/toxic waste in the body. Dry brush for 3-5 minutes a day at least 3 times a week before showering.
Benefits of Lymphatic Massage: Another technique to use to support the lymphatic system is lymphatic massage. If you’re local to Charleston, SC, I highly recommend Traci Ehlers, LMT of Back to Balance Massage Therapy (@BacktoBalanceCHS), and Jennifer Foster Talbot, holistic esthetician, and owner of Complete Beauty Wellness Spa.
Back to Balance Massage Therapy
Traci takes a clinical approach to massage therapy and addresses the underlying causes of pain and discomfort. My favorite therapeutic treatment is the massage cupping cocoon, which is intended to break up muscle/fascia/skin adhesions, move lymphatic fluid, and support the body's natural detoxification pathways.
Lymphatic Drainage & Gua Sha Facial
Jennifer is a certified esthetician and takes a holistic approach when it comes to skincare. She is certified in lymphatic drainage techniques, Dien Chan Multi-Reflexology & Chan’ Beauté (which are Italian and Vietnamese methods of facial reflexology). Jennifer is also certified in gua sha & lymphatic drainage techniques.
3. Benefits of a Lymphatic Drainage & Gua Sha facial: This type of facial is unlike your standard facial. It includes soothing and relaxing facial massage using gentle brushing and pumping techniques to promote lymph drainage. You immediately experience the benefits, because when the lymph is properly drained, the face has less swelling and it can properly detox. The result is a reduction in puffiness, acne, redness, and a brighter & tighter complexion.
Jennifer’s lymphatic facial also includes gua sha lifting methods - this is my favorite facial method. Gua sha is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique for the face and neck that promotes lymphatic drainage. There are many benefits of gua sha: stimulates circulation, helps produce collagen, decreases puffiness, brightens complexion, tightens skin, breaks up congestion, and helps with breakouts. I recommend a lymphatic drainage facial, it’s so relaxing and you immediately see and feel the benefits.