by Nikki Jongedyk – Massage Therapist
There are many ways we can support the immune system, by working with our lymphatic system – check out these tips below.
Immune support:
- Practice breath work daily to ensure you kick start your lymph system. Do this first – before you clear nodes or do any massage sequence. See the info below for how to do this.
- Squats and overhead arm movements will stimulate your main nodes in your armpit and upper legs. Water immersion is also a great benefit.
- Take care of your skin by keeping yourself hydrated and applying lotion to directly hydrate your skin.
- Dress any wounds and wear sunscreen to give your skin – our first line of defense – support.
Abdominal breathing sequence:
- Your diaphragm is a muscle which will assist in the return of lymph fluid into the bloodstream. The more you use it the better you will get at engaging the muscle and stimulating your thoracic duct.
- Start by putting your hand on your abdomen and chest. Taking a deep breath in through your nose, fill your abdomen all the way before your chest begins to fill with air.
- Once full, empty your body completely of air so your belly flattens.
- Repeat this 2-3 times, aiming to fill your abdomen slowly so you don’t become dizzy. You do not need to fill your chest completely, just a comfortable amount. Imagine a balloon inflating and deflating as you breathe.
Lymphatic self massage tips:
- Remember to empty your nodes before you send any fluid there.
- Using your palm/body brush for traction, pull your palm towards the node.
- The skin should have traction and drag as you move it.
- Follow the diagram below to ensure you move your massaging hand in the right direction.
