Do you experience uncomfortable swelling in your body? If so, your lymphatic system is likely congested, clogged, or blocked. Lymphatic drainage includes various techniques that help encourage the circulation of the lymphatic system, which removes toxins and waste from the body. Here are five easy ways to encourage better lymphatic drainage to reduce inflammation.
1) Walking
The lymphatic system is stimulated by moving your muscles and getting your heart rate up. Physical activity, including walking, encourages fluid to drain into the lymphatic system in the abdomen. The muscles in your legs act as a natural pump, moving lymph fluid to drain.
2) Gua Sha
This ancient Chinese technique involves scraping the face with a Gua Sha tool, which causes increased blood flow and stimulates skin production of collagen and elastin. Such increased circulation helps to remove toxins and might lead to a clear complexion. A collagen and elastin surge helps to reduce wrinkles, lines, and blemishes and, in turn, firms and tones the skin.
3) Elevate your legs
Leg elevation counteracts the pooling of blood and lymph fluid in the feet caused by gravity. This is one of the easiest ways to boost lymphatic drainage! Use as many cushions as necessary to maintain the position you are in, positioning your legs so they are elevated above your heart.
4) Dry Brushing
Dry brushing uses a coarse, natural-bristled brush to improve lymphatic circulation, resulting in improved body detoxification. Starting at the feet, sweep upwards, always moving toward the heart. Sweep toward the inner thighs, where lymph nodes are located. A cluster of lymph nodes can be found in the armpits, so sweep up your arms toward the armpit.
Furthermore, dry brushing helps regenerate new skin by sloughing away dead cells.
5) Stretching
Performing simple stretches helps to open important vessels, allowing lymph to return to the bloodstream while decreasing stiffness and improving blood flow.
- Shoulder Shrugs
- Neck roll side-to-side
- Downward Dog pose
- Hip Abduction
