Massage Aching Muscles? Sure… But What About Your Lymphs?
Lymphatic drainage massage can promote toxin elimination, healthier skin
By Cora Ciaramello L.E., C.P.E., LMT Aesthetician
Who doesn’t love a good massage?
Massages are revitalizing, healthy and soothing as well. A good massage can wake up tired muscles, as well as stretch and tighten those sleepy ligaments and tendons.
Massages can even help remove waste and toxins from the body’s tissues.
A less familiar type of massage – the lymphatic drainage massage – is such a massage. Think of the lymphatic system – which runs through the body – as a body’s drainage structure. The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from bodily tissues.
Unlike the more commonly known massages that use a strong touch and kneading movements, the drainage massage is a form of gentle massage. It uses light repetitive strokes that encourage movement of lymph fluids around the face and body.
Because the lymphatic system depends on smooth muscle movement, the light repetitive stroke provided by a lymphatic drainage massage helps transport the waste and toxins in its fluids through lymph vessels.
As with any massage, follow up with rest and hydrating with water are recommended.
A Decade’s Old Technique
The lymphatic drainage technique was developed in France during the 1930s by Emil and Estrid Vodder, a husband and wife team. It rapidly became a recommended treatment in the medical community for lymphedema resulting from cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.
Over time, the drainage technique became a remedy to treat several health issues other than the side effects of cancer treatment and additional forms of lymphedema. Among the issues were – and still are – fibromyalgia, fatigue, insomnia, stress, digestive problems, arthritis, and migraine episodes, with many sufferers reporting relief.
Old Method for a New Age
Today, however – because of the method’s detoxification and esthetic benefits – the lymphatic drainage technique is being used by skin care specialists, like professional, licensed, certified Aestheticians who are specially trained in the method.
Here at Changes Spa & Aesthetics, we are trained in lymphatic drainage massage and offer the technique in body massage, as well as facials.
Importantly, lymphatic drainage techniques are incorporated into our facials as needed to help with skin clarity, as stagnation of lymph contributes to acne.
And lymphatic drainage reduces puffiness, thanks to its ability to disburse congestion, which may have been caused by irritants, cosmetics, illness, allergies, or overindulgence of inflammatory foods. It also has a positive impact on rosacea, and fine lines, leaving the skin brighter.
Advocates of lymphatic drainage massage report that in addition to skin enhancement, the technique is also effective for pain relief, hormonal imbalances, cellulite, allergies and headaches, among other issues.
Additionally, the technique can also be used to clear the remnants of anesthesia from the body following surgery, and help reduce swelling after medical procedures, particularly cosmetic surgery.
Men and women alike are including lymphatic drainage massages as a regular part of their wellness routines.
As professional Aestheticians here at Changes Spa & Aesthetics we are trained in this special technique and offer lymphatic drainage massage in both facials and massages. Consider trying one! Like any massage, your body will surely thank you.
To make an appointment, call 973-588-3668; or book online here @ChangesSkin.com.
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Changes Spa & Aesthetics 420 BoulevardMountain Lakes, New Jersey(973) 588-3668
