A simple routine to revitalize your health.
I had no idea how important the lymphatic system was until I had severe underarm pain due to swollen lymph nodes. After researching, developing, and using a lymph circulation support body oil daily, I feel the difference not just in the reduction of pain, but I feel energized and feel healthier than I have in a very long time. Here's what I came to learn...
For starters, what is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is a hard-working, complex network of tissues, organs, and lymph nodes all interconnected by lymphatic vessels. It carries waste like bacteria and viruses, as well as transports vital immune cells which are essential in fighting off infections and diseases.
Often referred to as the “second circulatory system,” the lymphatic system, unlike the heart, does not have a built-in pump to circulate the lymph. Instead, it depends on body movement, breathing, and muscle contractions to circulate the lymph.
When the lymphatic system is stagnant, you can experience fatigue, swelling, painful lymph nodes, bloating/fluid retention, and a potentially weakened immune system.
To maintain a healthy lymphatic flow throughout your body and ward off these potential health concerns, it’s essential to exercise, drink plenty of water, and practice a simple, manual lymph massage as frequently as you can. This can be done in the comfort of your own home and only takes a few minutes! Best of all, you can use essential oils to not only enhance your mood during your daily massage but also add many more lymph-loving benefits.
These essential oils are well-known for their ability to detoxify and cleanse the body, promoting the elimination of waste and toxins throughout the lymphatic system.
Juniper Berry has diuretic properties that help reduce water retention.
Peppermint helps stimulate blood circulation and healthy lymph flow.
Geranium, Lemon, and Cedarwood are wonderful anti-inflammatory essential oils that can help reduce swelling and promote lymphatic drainage, aiding in the release and removal of toxins and excess fluid.
To keep you inspired, remember these 5 amazing benefits of doing a daily lymph massage:
Immune System Support
Reduce Water Retention
Stimulate Blood Circulation
Reduce Swelling
Balance Energy Levels
It’s important to dilute essential oils properly before topical use. For daily use, add up to 12 drops of one of these lymph-loving essential oils to 1 ounce of your choice of carrier oil (jojoba, apricot kernel, coconut oil).
To make it all the more easy and enjoyable, use a topical made-for-you body oil like the Great Omni Oil! This multipurpose head-to-toe “everything” oil was originally developed as a lymph circulation support oil, but it has a myriad of amazing benefits and daily uses.
How to do a Simple Lymph Massage at Home
A full body lymph massage only takes about 4 minutes, it feels wonderful, and the benefits will not go unnoticed.
You can use just your hands to perform this simple lymph massage, but using a lymph-supporting essential oil topical blend can enhance your results and add many other wonderful health benefits!
Step-by-Step Lymph Massage:
Neck: • Starting at the neck, Place your fingers just above your collarbone. Stroke Downward: Gently stretch the skin downward, moving towards the collarbone. Repeat this motion about 10 times on each side.
Neck and Shoulder: • Behind the Ears: Place your fingers behind your ears. Stroke Down: Gently stretch the skin downward towards your collarbone. Repeat this motion about 10 times on each side.
Armpits: • Lift Your Arm: Raise one arm to expose your armpit. Circular Motion: Use the opposite hand to gently massage the armpit in a circular motion for about 10 rotations on each side.
Arms: • Start at the Wrist: With your arm relaxed at your side, use your opposite hand to gently massage from the wrist moving upwards towards the elbow. Repeat this motion from elbow to shoulder. Do about 5-10 strokes per section.
Abdomen: • Clockwise Motion: Use both hands to gently massage your abdomen in a clockwise circular motion. Start from the right lower side, move up towards the ribcage, across to the left, and then down.
Legs: • Start at the Ankles: Sitting or standing, and use both hands to gently massage upwards from the ankles towards the knee. Repeat this motion moving upwards from the knee to the upper thigh. Do about 5-10 strokes per section.
Additional Tips:
Breathing: Deep breathing can enhance the lymphatic flow. Take deep, slow breaths during your massage.
Gentle, Upward Motions are Key: Using gentle, upward motions towards the heart encourages healthy lymphatic flow and promotes absorption. Make sure the pressure is light, as the lymphatic vessels are close to the surface of the skin. It should not be painful, only enjoyable and relaxing.
Using a Lymph-Loving Body Oil = Added Benefits! Gently massage The Great Omni Oil into areas where lymph nodes are concentrated, such as the neck, armpits, and groin, using the same light, circular motions. This is best used on tender or puffy areas to help eliminate waste and toxins.
Mindfulness: It's a great time for self-love and repeating body-positivity affirmations! "I will allow myself to enjoy perfect health."
Consistency: Daily lymphatic massage can yield the best results over time. Sometimes it's hard to make time for it. To start, aim for 2-3 times per week.
Warm Up: A warm shower or bath before the massage can help relax your muscles and enhance the benefits.
Doing this simple massage not only promotes healthy lymphatic flow but also encourages balance and harmony throughout your whole body.
I hope you give this a try and experience the joy of fresh flowing energy!
Questions? Comments? Please feel free to reach out via the comment box below! I always love to hear from you.
Wishing you good health.
Your personal aromatherapist,
Rachel
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.