Lymphatic Drainage aftercare advice and tips

12 Feb

“For all my clients who have had a session and patiently listened to me rave about all the wonderful ways you can support your lymphatic system at home—remember, small steps! There’s no need to overhaul your entire routine overnight. Some tips will resonate, others might not, and that's okay. Pick what works for you, let the rest go, and most importantly—enjoy the process. Happy reading!" - Michelle

What to Expect Post-Treatment

Increased Energy or Fatigue – You may feel either energized or a little tired as your body processes toxins. Both are normal.
More Frequent Urination – This is a sign your lymphatic system is flushing out waste.
Mild Detox Symptoms – Occasionally, clients may feel light-headed or have mild headaches. This should pass within 24 hours. Hydrate well to ease this process.

Home Care to Enhance Your Results:

Unlike blood circulation, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a heart to pump fluid—it relies on external pressure. That’s why light, rhythmic movements, hydration, and deep breathing help optimise drainage.

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Drinking plenty of water helps your body flush out toxins more efficiently. Aim for at least 2 litres a day. Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining the pressure balance of the lymphatic system by ensuring that lymph fluid remains at the right consistency to flow efficiently. The lymphatic system relies on a fluid medium to transport waste, proteins, and immune cells. Without enough water, lymph can become thicker and move more slowly, reducing its ability to drain effectively.

2. Swimming for Full-Body Lymph Stimulation
Swimming offers gentle, natural pressure on your lymphatic vessels, enhancing drainage without stress on the body. Even a 20-minute light swim can be beneficial. If swimming isn’t available, a warm bath can also help improve circulation.

3. Gentle Node Stimulation
Boost lymph flow by gently massaging key lymph nodes (neck, underarms, behind knees). Use light, circular motions. Here are two helpful video demonstrations to guide you:

Lymphatic Drainage Massage - head and neck

Here's a video tutorial for a full body lymphatic node stimulation

Lymph love club on Instagram is wonderful to follow for additional tips/tricks

4. Belly Breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing)
Deep belly breaths act as a pump for the lymphatic system. Try this simple technique:

Breathe in deeply through your nose, letting your belly expand.
Hold for 3-4 seconds.
Exhale slowly and fully.
Repeat for 5-10 minutes daily.

For additional benefits, try doing this while lying on your back with your legs elevated against a wall or propped on pillows. This position helps drain fluid from the lower extremities and enhances lymphatic circulation, make sure you support your lower back with pillows or do this exercise on the bed to reduce impact on your sacrum.

5. Gentle Movement
Simple, light exercises like walking, stretching, or yoga, rebounding (low-impact exercise performed on a mini trampoline) to keep the lymph moving. Avoid anything too strenuous for the next 24 hours but keep your body gently active.

6. Dry body brushing

Dry brushing stimulates lymphatic flow, exfoliates the skin, and supports circulation. Use a natural bristle brush and gently brush towards the heart in long, sweeping motions before showering. This can be particularly effective before doing deep breathing exercises.

7. Compression Therapy

Wearing custom-fitted compression garments can help support lymphatic drainage, especially for those managing chronic swelling or lymphedema. Speak to a specialist to ensure the right fit and level of compression for your needs.

8. Regulating the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Since lymphatic drainage is closely linked to the parasympathetic nervous system, managing stress and promoting relaxation is key. Techniques such as meditation, gentle yoga, and Vagus nerve stimulation (like humming or cold exposure) can help optimize lymph flow. When the body is under stress, the SNS (fight or flight) dominates, causing blood vessels to constrict and slowing lymphatic circulation.

Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension, particularly in the diaphragm and chest, restricting the natural pumping action that supports lymph flow.

When to Rebook

Regular sessions ensure ongoing lymphatic health. For optimal results, consider rebooking: