WHAT IS LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE? 

London Dermatology | 14 December 2024

With so many individuals praising its advantages, lymphatic drainage massages appear to be the newest trend in slimming treatments. Apart from removing surplus fluids and decreasing bloating brought on by liquid retention, lymphatic drainage offers further health advantages. It reduces the appearance of cellulite by strengthening immunity and assisting the body in breaking down and getting rid of fat. In contrast to deep tissue massages, it is also mild and soothing. You can have a relaxing massage, lose weight, and enhance your health all at once. Perhaps this explains why so many people are scheduling massages for lymphatic drainage.

Knowing a little bit about the lymphatic system and how it functions will help you comprehend why these massages are so successful. To help you understand why lymphatic drainage massage is not only a slimming treatment but also a health and well-being enhancer, we will examine the lymphatic system, its primary roles, and its constituent parts.

The immunological, digestive, and endocrine systems of the body are all a part of the lymphatic system. Comprising a system of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, organs, and tissues such as the spleen, bone marrow, thymus gland, and small intestine, it is vital for the absorption of fat and liquids, hormone balance, and the body’s defence against infection by eliminating toxins, including pathogens that cause cancer.

Because it plays a major role in the body’s immunological response and disease prevention, a healthy lymphatic system is vital. A buildup of fluids and pollutants is typically referred to as a “sluggish lymphatic system,” which can cause discomforting bloating, physical and mental exhaustion, and a general sensation of unwellness. When the lymphatic system is functioning at its best, one may feel more energised, lose more fluid, and even have more mental clarity.

In 1932, French massage therapist Emil Vodder and naturopath Estrid Vodder created the lymphatic drainage massage technique. They created a brand-new, mild massage technique that was intended to facilitate the lymphatic system’s and its vessels’ passage through the body. Their creation was dubbed “Manual Lymph Drainage.” Eventually, the treatment moved to the United States after they taught the MLD technique at centres across Europe.  The lymph is gradually pushed to its drainage point beneath the collarbones using upward massage strokes.