Why should you cleanse the Lymphatic System
It’s important to routinely cleanse the lymphatic system, a complex network including vessels, nodes, the spleen, adenoids, and the tonsils. This system transports white blood cells and rids the body of harmful toxins. Signs of a poorly functioning lymphatic system include digestive problems, bloating, fatigue, skin problems, cellulite, headaches, body aches, swelling, and weak immune system. While the cardiovascular circulatory system is powered by your heart, the lymphatic circulatory system is stimulated by physical movement and holistic practices like the ones listed here.
1. Drink Water
Lymph fluid is made up of about 95% water, so it’s no surprise that adequate water consumption is essential to circulatory health. Aim to drink a half-gallon of purified water every day, and avoid alcohol and sugary beverages to keep your system from becoming dehydrated and sluggish. Drink water first thing in the morning to help flush out toxins, and consider adding some lemon juice to enhance these benefits.
2. Exercise
Exercise is a great natural way to keep your lymphatic system flowing and protecting you from infection and disease. Both cardio and strength training increase the efficiency of cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation. Rhythmic movement of muscles and joints moves lymph fluid around the soft tissue, encouraging proper drainage. Deep breathing into the diaphragm also helps to stimulate this process through movement.
3. Reduce Stress
Stress is a serious risk to your health but can be managed through mindfulness techniques like incorporating a daily practice of meditation or yoga. The lymphatic system is sensitive to stress and can become congested if you are chronically prone to worry. Developing emotional awareness and healthy responses to triggers will enable you to cope more effectively.
4. Raw Food
Raw fruits and vegetables are packed full of immunity-boosting vitamins and enzymes, the perfect fuel to feed your lymphatics! Part of the lymphatic system is actually located in the intestines, so it’s important to keep inflammation down by eating well. Ayurvedic medicine recommends red foods like cherries, cranberries, and beats. The additional fiber will also keep the digestive tract eliminating properly, a critical component of eliminating waste.
5. Herbs
Herbs have detoxifying properties that aid in cleansing various organs and the lymphatic system. Some herbs to keep an eye out for include dandelion, milk thistle, ginger, goldenseal, black walnut, olive leaf, cilantro, peppermint, eucalyptus, and stinging nettles. You may want to consider investing in chemical-free plant-based household and personal products as well to reduce the toxin in your environment.
6. Sauna
The sauna is a sure-fire way to kickstart your lymphatic system and dive deep into your detoxification and relaxation process. Heat stimulates circulation, while sweat releases built-up toxins in the skin, along with drinking plenty of purified water.
7. Essential Oils
Some essential oils have the ability to stimulate the lymphatic system. Some good ones to keep on hand include clove, lemongrass, lemon, rosemary, and myrrh. Essential oils can be inhaled by using a diffuser, applied topically to the skin, and some can even be consumed.
8. Massage
Applying an external pressure to the lymphatic system through the skin moves lymph fluid and blood around the body. This process helps to reduce inflammation, enhance healing, and eliminate toxins from the body. A professional massage therapist trained in manual lymph drainage therapy can target lymph vessels specifically. If you can’t afford a professional, consider investing in a personal vibrating massager at a greater saving to use at home.
9. Dry Brushing
Dru brushing is another relaxing way to gently push toxins out of the lymphatic system. This method stimulates the lymphatic soft tissue below the skin utilizing a coarse bristled brush. Focusing on the areas of the body where the lymph nodes are concentrated, such as the head, neck, abdomen, and feet, eliminates toxins built up there.
10. Body Wraps
Like saunas, body wraps stimulate circulation by heating up the temperature of the body. This naturally increases weight loss, and detoxification of the lymphatic system, and skin through increased sweat.
11. Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy encourages lymphatic drainage by alternating hot and cold temperatures. This can take many forms, from hot tubs and cold showers to hot springs and cold rivers. Some people also opt for water massages as a relaxing way to stimulate the lymphatic system. Water can have minerals and essential oils added for additional detoxification benefits.
Always check with your doctor before attempting any detoxification process to be sure it is the right choice for your own personal health. A healthy lymphatic system will help you to have excellent digestion, radiant glowing skin, and greater longevity. Consider taking these steps to cleanse your lymphatic system if you want to revitalize your life!