Physical activity encourages fluid to drain into the lymphatic system in the abdomen. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates and Tai chi all might help to encourage the lymph to move. Pelvic floor exercises may also help.
“The lymphatic system is stimulated by moving your muscles and getting your heart rate up,” says MD Anderson Senior Physical Therapist Sarah Cleveland. “All these things stimulate the lymphatic flow.” The contraction of your muscles becomes the pump that helps the fluid get around your body.
Lie on your back with your feet up against a wall and your knees straight. Slowly bend the knees, sliding your feet down the wall. Straighten your knees, sliding your feet up the wall. Repeat 5 times.
Lack of movement
Pooling of lymphatic fluids can lead to blockages and swelling known as lymphostatic oedema. This occurs through the accumulation of toxins, reducing the function of cells and potentially leading to metabolic and infectious complications.
If you have a fever, swollen glands, fatigue, or muscle aches, however, you should refrain from exercise until your "below the neck" symptoms are gone, and should avoid strenuous exercise for around two weeks.
Looking After Your Lymphatic System
Drink plenty of water – Dehydration is one of the most common causes of lymphatic congestion which can further exacerbate existing lymph problems. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day encourages healthy lymphatic function and reduces water retention.
Epsom salts work magic on the lymphatic system due to their high levels of Magnesium, a mineral known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In combination with the natural diuretic quality of mineral salts and the temperature of the water, Epsom salt baths have been shown to stimulate lymph circulation in the body.
“Sleeping on your left side is the better side to sleep on as facilitates lymphatic drainage, supports better elimination, supports healthy spleen function, encourages proper digestion, and helps bile flow more freely,” McGinn says. Sleeping on the right side, meanwhile, can have the opposite effects.
The lymphatic system requires water to flow properly. After all, lymph fluid is primarily composed of water and must be hydrated to function and flow. Drinking at least 1 litre of warm lemon water in the morning is a great way to get the lymphatic system moving to help expel toxins.
The cycle of lymph drainage varies from person to person. Immediate results are general lightness and deep relaxation. The fluid drainage can occurs 24-48 hours post session. The difference in drainage also varies from person to person, depending on the health of their lymphatic systems.
While you can always come and see us for a lymphatic drainage massage even if you're not exhibiting any specific symptoms, several signs indicate you may need one: You have congestion or fullness in your ears. You suffer from headaches. You feel fatigued or run down.
Vitamins that support the lymphatic system include, vitamin A, C, E, and B-6. Common herbs that also help include goldenseal, echinacea, and poke root.
If the lymph system gets blocked or overrun lymph fluid backs up. This chronic lymph blockage can cause swelling, joint pain, nausea and fatigue, as well as the symptoms listed below. Stagnant lymph can be stored within lymph nodes for a long time but will eventually become too toxic for the body to manage.
Many have reported that they feel a feeling of tingling or flow of fluid under the skin, much like a small stream. Others report the feeling of being able to breathe deeply for the first time in a while because of the lymphatic flow in the sinuses.
Avoid diuretics (“water pills”), alcohol and caffeine.
They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema.
Cardio keeps your cardiac system moving, but sweat also helps drain the lymphatic system.
Lymphatic drainage massage is one of the most popular methods to relieve the pain and swelling caused by swollen lymph nodes.
Massage the front of your neck to help reduce swelling. This massage will move the lymph fluid from your neck to your chest. Place your hand on the front of your neck where you have swelling. Move your hand down your neck towards your collar bone and chest.
The lymph relies on the contraction of muscles. This contrac- tion squeezes the lymph up to the thoracic duct so that the lymph can mix with the blood and then be dealt with by organs. Cold showers cause whole-body contraction and this works excellently with the lymph system, squeezing the fluid up through the body.