Lymphatic drainage has been all the rage lately with popular before-and-after videos promising a more toned look, but the practice is actually rooted in amazing health benefits for the body, with its origins dating back to the 1300s. (according to Chinese information). According to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Gua Sha was used to “get rid of disease” and was eventually written into major medical texts during the Ming Dynasty). The benefits go far beyond a chiseled jawline or a less bloated stomach, lymphatic drainage massages and techniques naturally flush out toxins, revitalize the immune system, rejuvenate cellular function, and eliminate excess It's the holy grail for minimizing fluid retention and bloating.
So how does it work? Think of the lymphatic system as your body's “sewer system.” Its purpose is to aid detoxification and remove damaged cells, bacteria, or toxins (learn more about the lymphatic system here). Using gua sha, a dry brush, or your hands, manually manipulate specific areas of your body to encourage the flow (and thus drainage) of lymph fluid toward the lymph nodes, where it is filtered and returned to the bloodstream. You can make it so that . Bottom line: Using simple tools, you can take a DIY approach to boosting the health of your lymphatic system. Read mini-tutorials to try out products for face, body, and more yourself.
face
Removing excess fluid from the facial area has the effect of removing puffiness, reducing puffiness, and reducing dullness. Proponents of facial lymphatic drainage massage can't get enough of the wellness trend, thanks to the glowing, healthy-looking skin it brings. Other benefits include helping improve blood circulation, bringing fresh nutrients to the skin through the bloodstream, supporting the production of healthy cells, and allowing time for self-care. To give your face some extra TLC, use your fingertips or massage tools to get your lymphatic system moving. Start at the center of your face and move upwards toward your ears, then gently down your neck.
whole body
You've probably seen before and after pictures (i.e. of the abdomen) of people receiving lymphatic drainage massages. What's the reason behind a more contoured look? Lymphatic drainage helps reduce water retention and swelling, which can provide a temporary visual slimming effect. However, the effect is not just temporary sluggishness. It strengthens the immune system, stimulates the digestive system, and may minimize PMS symptoms such as headaches and pelvic pain. Dry brushing, body tools, and foam rollers can help move lymph. . Then, sweat to eliminate toxins from your body.
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Hand and body oils also work (a mirror may also be helpful, especially if you're new to this technique). When performing a lymphatic self-massage, use slow, gentle, rhythmic strokes and apply in the direction of the nearest lymph nodes (Lymphatic drainage massage specialist Sabrina Sweet calls these the Big 6). (below, above, and below the ears) collarbone, armpits, abdomen, groin, and behind the knees). According to a VOGUE interview with lymphatic massage expert Flavia Ranini, start by pressing just below your collarbone to start draining, then press three times on each side of your armpits. Next, shift your attention to your arms and stroke both sides from your elbows to your shoulders.
Rebecca Faria, a lymphatic drainage expert and founder of Detox by Rebecca, explained the method in an interview with InStyle as a way to try it on your belly. Start by applying gentle pressure to open the lymph nodes, then move clockwise in a circular motion. Move around the belly button, then move up and down continuously from the abdomen to the lymph nodes. “Next, turn to one side of your body and use your hands to make a pushing motion from the side toward the lymph nodes,” she explained. Don't forget about the other side!
Finally, to massage your legs, place your palm in the crease of one thigh and move it upward toward your navel in a wave-like motion. Repeat with the other leg.
There's nothing more satisfying than sweating. Strengthen your lymphatic system by doing heart-boosting home workouts or turning your bathroom into a DIY steam room after a hands-on treatment (because sweating doesn't help). It costs nothing! ). By stimulating and detoxifying the lymphatic system through sweating, the body is able to remove toxins more effectively at the cellular level and prepares the lymph nodes for more effective drainage.