WHAT IS THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM?

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The lymphatic system includes capillaries, vessels, nodes, and ducts that collect and transport lymph, which is a clear to slightly yellowish fluid, similar in composition to blood plasma. The lymphatic system is very low pressure as it does not have it's own pump to move fluid through its vessels. Therefore it relies on breathing, muscle contractions or manual lymphatic drainage techniques for flow.

 

The lymphatic system is important for maintaining your body’s fluid balance, and it helps transport some fats and waste products. It also produces and releases lymphocytes as part of the immune system. Waste products from pathogen destroyed in the body are carried through the lymph and dumped back into the circulatory system via the superior vena cava.

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In addition to being present in the lymph nodes, lymphatic tissue is also found in a few additional spaces of your body. The lymphoid organs assist the lymphatic system. They include the thymus, spleen, tonsils, and appendix, along with some special tissue in the gut:

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WHAT IS LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE

 

A lymphatic drainage massage uses light, rhythmic strokes that guides lymphatic fluid towards the lymph nodes so waste products toxins and infections can be more effectively removed from the body. The lymphatic system is a vascular network that doesn't have it's own pump so it relies on breathing and muscle contractions to move fluid along its vessels.

 

A trained practitioner’s hands can apply light rhythmic pressure to re-stimulate the natural contractions of the lymphatic system. This will move the stagnant fluid back into the natural lymph flow of the body.

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