DESCRIPTION OF MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE - ARIANA INSTITUTE

by Ariana Vincent - Ariana Institute
(Austin and Online)

Ariana Institute offers online and classroom CE courses in Lymphatic Drainage for the Face and Neck. www.arianainstitute.com You are invited to enjoy this article describing Lymphatic Drainage. Warmly, Ariana

DESCRIPTION OF MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is the process of moving stagnant lymphatic fluid around the body to improve health.

Lymphatic drainage is a profound technique to help increase lymph flow. Immune function is increased. Lymph vessels collect dead cells, waste products, bacteria, viruses, water and fats.

Lymphatic massage was developed in the 1930s and is a delicate form of massage that stimulates the body’s lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system has no central pump and depends on muscle contraction through deep breathing, exercise and manual manipulation to move fluid.
Lymphatic massage utilizes a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes. Immune system function can be significantly increased, improving metabolism and helping the body to eliminate waste and toxins.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a method of work in which only the hands are employed, using gentle pumping manipulations over the lymphatic vessels toward the lymphatic nodes. Work slowly and lightly.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is different from traditional Swedish massage because you will specifically move the lymph in a way that mimics how lymph moves in the body.

Lymphatic drainage is not a massage directed to the muscular structure. It is a treatment to cleanse and renew the fluids. It promotes a regeneration of the tissues by facilitating an increase in the body’s immune system functioning and reduces fluid congestion.

By performing lymphatic drainage massage correctly, the therapist can stimulate the volume of lymph flow by 20 times. Over 70% of the initial lymphatic is located in and just under the skin. Without it our bodies would swell up like balloons. Low energy, minor aches and pains, susceptibility to colds and flu may be due to a sluggish lymph system. Lymph nodes filter and purify the lymph.

Lymphatic massage is also useful for clients with sports injuries; it clears tissues of toxins and reduces swelling.

As with most massage, it is vital to drink lots of water after a lymphatic massage to help flush away toxins that have been released.

Within us all, there is a silent system working to keep us healthy.

A strong immune system helps you feel balanced, happy and whole.