Lymphatic drainage massages aren’t a new phenomenon, but recently social media has been all over this therapy, documenting its benefits in real-time. From flushing out toxins to relieving bloating and shedding water weight, celebrities and influencers are all raving about it. But what is a lymphatic massage, and can this therapy do all the things it claims to do?
Everything You Need to Know About Lymphatic Massage Therapy
What It Is and How It Works
A lymphatic massage targets your body’s lymphatic system: a network of organs and vessels that help to usher waste and toxins from our bodies. You can think of it as your own personal garbage disposal system. The problem that many people have, however, is that the lymphatic system can get backed up, leading to excess water and waste retention, which can translate into bloating and fatigue. Not fun.
Lymphatic drainage helps to relieve these symptoms by acting as a reset button, unclogging your lymphatic system and ridding your body of all the extra waste it’s holding on to. To get your system draining, a massage therapist will employ very targeted and purposeful techniques aimed at encouraging retained fluids to move are the body more effectively from your tissue to lymph vessels and nodes. This type of massage therapy differs from a traditional massage in that the pressure used is very light; the lymphatic system is much closer to the surface of the skin than your muscular system, so deep pressure is not required.
Is Lymphatic Massage Therapy All It’s Cracked Up to Be?
If you’ve been flowing all the before and afters on social media, you’re probably itching to know if lymphatic massage therapy is as great as everyone is saying. Well, the short answer is: it depends. For a lot of people, lymphatic drainage massage therapy lives up to the hype. Those who have had the therapy often rave about leaving the appointment feeling less bloated, more energized, and noticing a distinctly slimmer shape. And to a certain extent, the science backs it up too. Encouraging lymphatic flow helps your body eliminate waste and reduce water retention, which can have an immediate visible impact.
That said, it is super important to understand that lymphatic drainage is not a magic wand.
If you’re expecting it to melt away pounds or experience lasting results, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. While you may leave the session feeling more toned, this is all retained water and bloat, not actual fat. The glow after you leave your lymphatic drainage massage session however is real, so embrace it for what it is! A great way to get rid of excess waste and water while supporting a healthier lymphatic system. For many in Kitchener, it’s less of a trend and more of a game-changer.
Other Ways You Can Improve Lymphatic Flow
While lymphatic massage therapy is a popular and effective way to boost lymphatic drainage, it’s not the only option. Staying active is key to supporting your lymphatic system. Your natural movements help things flow smoothly.
Another easy hack? Hydration. Drinking plenty of water ensures that your lymphatic system has the fluid it needs to transport waste out of your body. You can also incorporate dry brushing into your routine. This simple self-care ritual involves using a stiff-bristled brush to massage your skin in long, upward strokes. Not only will this encourage lymphatic draining but also feels good and exfoliates your skin.
Should You Try Lymphatic Massage Therapy?
If you’ve been feeling bloated, sluggish, or just a little off, a lymphatic massage might be just what your body needs to hit refresh. While it’s not a cure-all by any means, many people in Kitchener swear by it for everything from reducing water retention to improving their overall sense of well-being.
