Lymphatic Drainage

The Lymphatic System plays an important role within our body. This newsletter will touch on how it works and ways to maintain a healthy lymphatic system.

The Lymphatic System

What is it?The lymphatic system is apart of the circulatory and immune system. Its primary function is to balance fluid and distribute immune cells throughout the body to maintain health and defend against disease. The lymphatic system also rids tissues of excess proteins and toxins, carries digested fat from the intestines to the blood vessels and repairs damage in injured tissues. 

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have a pumping device to move the fluid along. The fluid can become stagnant from lack of movement. If your lymph gets sluggish, this will compromise your immune response.

What are the signs of lymphatic congestion?Swelling of the small joints (you can notice your rings becoming tighter)Feeling fatigued Morning soreness and stiffnessBloatingDry and itchy skinMental fogginessCold hands and feet

As mentioned previously, the lymphatic system needs a little push in the right direction. Here are ways to stimulate it:

~Muscular contraction-any movement~Exercise-swimming is best~Dry Brushing-Using a body brush, brush the body in movements toward the heart. TIP: this is great for full body exfoliation. ~Manual lymphatic drainage I would like to spend a little more time here:

This is a hand technique using very gentle and rhythmic movements. Each stroke slightly moves the lymph in the direction of lymphatic flow to encourage drainage of fluid and waste. 

Benefits Reduces swellingDetoxifies the body, removes excess water, protein, fats & cell debrisCalming affect on musclesReduces painImprove immune functionHelps treat acne

ContraindicationsBlood clots or ThrombosisHeart problemsActive cancerFever over 100Cardiovascular or kidney disordersTuberculosisThyroid issues

Ways I can help

If you are experiencing puffiness or looking to detoxify your lymphatic system, I am here to help. Just as long as you do not have any of the aforementioned contraindications, that is. 

I am certified in full body and facial lymphatic drainage and just recently added Gua Sha to my repertoire. 

In case you are not aware of what Gua Sha is; it's an ancient Chinese form of manual lymphatic drainage with a jade stone to aid in the relief of pain and tension. This technique aids in the removal of toxins and promotes lifting and firming to the skin. Build up of lymphatic fluid can cause puffiness and a sluggish look to the skin.

Although traditional body Gua Sha can be pretty intense, facial Gua Sha is very relaxing, reaping the benefits of:

~Smooth lines and wrinkles~Relaxes tension in facial muscles which can cause fine ~lines and wrinkles.~Promotes increased hydration ~Energizes the skin~Reduces puffiness and dark circles 

~Gua Sha is included in my Signature Facial ~ (other options European massage or pressure point treatment)

Experiencing Dark Circles and Puffiness?This is a drag! Low circulation, diet, genetics and dehydration can all contribute to puffiness and dark circles around your eyes. 

My Firming and Lifting Eye Treatment can help with this. This treatment lifts and firms the delicate eye area. Includes cleanse, exfoliation, lymphatic drainage, electrical modalities, mask and moisturizer. Can be added to any facial for added benefit!

Why not schedule them both? Schedule a Signature Facial & Eye Treatment today!

I look forward to seeing you soon,

Emerri