Nikki Jongedyk – Remedial Massage Therapist
When it comes to our immunity, my target as a Remedial Therapist is the Lymphatic System (LS). The LS assists the body by ridding it of harmful bacteria and proteins. To support a healthy lymphatic system there are 4 key things you can to do:
1. Skin health – the LS lies close to the surface of the skin, which is the first line of defence against anything that is potentially harmful. Wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and use organic lotions that keep your skin hydrated and healthy. This will give your LS the support it needs and assist in immune defence.
2. Exercise – the LS loves the support of movement; it helps the lymphatic collectors (little vessels that collect and pump towards the lymph nodes) work more efficiently. You don’t need to be running marathons to support your immune health. Simple movements such as squats and bicep curls will be effective.
3. Breathing – Deep breathing can kick start your Cysterna Chyle, the collecting station that sits at the base of the Thoracic Duct. It is responsible for filtering the collected metabolic waste and harmful cells found in lymphatic fluid to that clean lymph fluid can re-enter the circulatory system.
4. Massage – While there are specialised lymphatic drainage massages available, you can self-massage at home to assist your LS. Our superficial lymph nodes collect and filter lymph fluid on their way to the Cysterna Chyle. Lymph nodes love the assistance we can offer them to help filter the waste collected. Clearing your nodes with large, gentle strokes towards the heart, helps ‘empty the bucket’ so your LS can drain more effectively and support your immune system. The main locations are at your underwear line (the front of your body next to your groin), under your armpits, next to your throat, above/below your clavicle and behind your knee.