Results are noticeable are just one session, however for detoxing we recommend at least once a month. For pregnancy or post partum, we recommend once a week or every other week. For water retention, weight loss and cellulite, metabolism, circulation and digestion issues, it is recommended every week.
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.
How to know whether it is working? Those who use lymphatic drainage massages may notice that their swelling reduces. At the very least, swelling should not worsen. People who have lymphedema should continue using compression socks or sleeves to prevent swelling.
How often should I get a lymphatic drainage massage? It is recommended that you get the series of lymphatic drainage session every three months.
Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic drainage massage. Some people, however, complain of headaches, nausea and fatigue. When that happens, you should ask your healthcare provider about managing your side effects.
After the Session
You will notice feeling better by about 50 percent, then hours after the massage, 90 percent better. You will also likely feel incredibly rejuvenated, which will last even for days after your session.
Lymphatic drainage also improves circulation, relaxes the body and combats localized fat. Many clients report a slimmer waist and loss of excess water weight after their massage.
Lymphatic drainage further improves blood circulation, relaxes the body, and fights localized fat. Many clients report a slimmer waist and weight loss after a massage. After a massage, your circulatory system can quickly get rid of excess fluid as well as the toxic buildup.
The dead fat cell and its content is absorbed into the lymphatic vessels – whereby it travels through to the venous blood supply, into the liver. The liver processes this and then deposits the waste material (fat cell and lipid) – flushing it out of the body through the natural elimination system.
Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.
Drink 2-4 glasses of water after your massage to help properly flush out your lymphatic system. Drinking water helps flush your kidneys which are responsible for getting rid of toxins.
The frequency of lymphatic drainage massages depends on the patient. A gentle and non-invasive treatment, you can't necessarily overdo it. But, you should try and follow a specific schedule to get the most out of your massages.
The lymph system is made up of:
Lymphatic fluid collects and takes metabolic cellular waste, dead cells, and toxins towards the subclavian veins at the base of the neck to be event ually eliminated through sweat, urine, and through the bowels.
Having a massage has a similar effect on our body akin to light to moderate exercise. And just like after exercise, you can become dehydrated after a massage. Dehydration can cause you to feel light headed, dizzy, nauseated, and even cause a headache. Drinking water will re-hydrate you and help reduce these symptoms.
The lymphatic vessels drain into collecting ducts, which empty their contents into the two subclavian veins, located under the collarbones. These veins join to form the superior vena cava, the large vein that drains blood from the upper body into the heart.
Lymphatic massage can be performed in the morning or the evening. While morning massage helps to reduce swelling that can occur during the night, evening massage can be extremely relaxing and aid in falling asleep more easily. Begin with clean and dry skin – save the oils for a bit later.
The feeling of having a stuffy nose, congestion, and lots of mucous are symptoms of a backed up lymphatic system.
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.
Swelling in part of the body (such as your breast, chest, shoulder, arm, or leg) Skin feeling tight or hard, changing in texture, looking red, or feeling hot. New aching, tingling, numbness, or other discomfort in the area. The area might also feel full or heavy.
The pro recommends massaging the arms, legs, and stomach up to 3 to 4 times a week at home. "However, when done by a professional," she explains, "1 or 2 times a week is enough, but each body is different."
When the lymphatic system stops functioning properly and becomes sluggish, fat absorption becomes impaired, and fat accumulates in tissues. Over time this accumulation can lead to noticeable weight gain and extra difficulty releasing weight.