What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system acts as a secondary circulatory system which helps to protect people from being infected by viruses or bacteria; it also helps the body fight cancer. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is not closed and has no central pump; the lymph moves slowly and under low pressure due mostly to the milking action of skeletal muscles.  Lymph is a fluid rich in white blood cells.  This fluid carries wastes to the lymph nodes where it is filtered  before being returned to the circulatory system.

What is Lymphatic Massage?
Lymphatic massage is a technique that helps to promote health and aid recovery from illness or surgery.  It is also called lymphatic drainage or manual lymph drainage.  It is becoming more well known in the United States due to it's benefits for breast cancer survivors. It is also being widely used as a pre and post operative therapy for faster healing from surgical and cosmetic procedures. As a wellness practice, lymphatic massage can be used to prevent fluid retention, enhance the removal of toxins, viruses and bacteria, and supports the entire immune system. The light rhythmic touch improves lymph circulation and reduces swelling.  It is also effective in decreasing the swelling and bruising from cosmetic surgery, liposuction, breast reduction or implants, and laser surgery. Check with your doctor first!

Stress Reduction and Pain Relief:
The light, gentle, rhythmic touch of lymphatic massage has an effect on the body's nervous system.  Most people find that they become deeply relaxed during a session.  As the body moves into this relaxation process, pain may also begin to be reduced in intensity.  Because of this ability to cause a shift in the nervous system, lymphatic massage is also used in the treatment of such conditions as fibromyalgia, headaches, and arthritis. 

Contraindications:
Although this technique is light and gentle, it cannot be utilized if there is an  active skin infection, thrombois, open wound, fever, heart or kidney disease. 

What to Expect in your Session:
Lymphatic massage requires special training. Always ask your therapist about his/her training in this field. Expect to experience very light, rhythmic touch-the lymphatic system lies just under the skin! You may request a full session of lymphatic massage or ask for it to be incorporated into your regular massage, depending on your needs.