Lymphatic Drainage Massage, is a gentle and specialised massage technique designed to encourage the natural movement of lymphatic fluid around the body.
The lymphatic system plays an important role in maintaining fluid balance and supporting the immune system. As blood circulates around the body, some fluid naturally passes into the surrounding tissues. The lymphatic system collects this excess fluid and, through a network of lymph vessels, lymph nodes lymphoid organs (spleen and tonsils), lymphatic tissues (bone marrow and thymus) and eventually returns it to the bloodstream.
The main functions of the lymphatic system are:
- Immunity: helping the body fight infection by producing white blood cells that destroy unwanted invaders such as bacteria, viruses and parasites
- Balances fluid levels in the body
- Transports dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive tract into the bloodstream
When the lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid effectively, fluid can accumulate within the tissues, causing swelling known as lymphoedema. This can sometimes occur following surgery or medical treatment where lymph nodes or lymphatic vessels have been removed or damaged, including some conditions such as breast cancer. It can also accumulate from sitting at a desk all day or lack of exercise.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage may be beneficial for:
- Reducing swelling, fluid retention and bloating
- Post operative care, especially having the lymph removed due to cancer
- Improves the immune system resulting in boost of energy and reduce fatigue
- Auto immune diseases
- Improve skin conditions and dark areas under the eyes
- Helping to remove waste and toxins naturally
- Calms the nervous system to promote better sleep so could help with insomnia and stress
- Headaches and migraines
- Supports Immune Function
- Improves immunity to fight infection
What to expect during the session:
Unlike Swedish there is no deep pressure or deep tissue work as the lymph sits directly underneath the 5 microscopic layers of your outer skin, so heavy pressure would crush them, and temporarily prevent the fluid from draining.
It is a very light massage and I'll be using slow and rhythmic pressure to stimulate fluid movement through the tissues, towards the major lymph nodes, as I work around the front and back of the body
The effects of Lymphatic Drainage Massage can be immediate and you are left feeling deeply relaxed, but also there could be reduced bloating in the stomach, face and legs, and I always advise to drink plenty of water afterwards, and a light meal that day with no alcohol.
> £51 - 1 hour
> £72 - 90 min