Lymphatic Drainage Therapy

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very light technique yet with powerful cleansing, pain relieving & immunological effects. This gentle, flowing, rhythmic “massage” can be applied to a range of presentations, with great effect.

It is used primarily to promote the optimal functioning of the lymphatic vessels, which lead to the lymph nodes and the lymphatic circulatory system. Manual lymphatic drainage aims to promote the assimilation and removal of metabolic by-products, excess water, toxins, bacteria, large protein molecules and foreign substances from the tissue.

Manual lymphatic drainage has the added effect of down-regulating the sympathetic nervous system (known as Fight / Flight), helping reduce pain and enhancing the activity of our immune system. In everyday life, the lymph flow is stimulated by a number of factors: internal stimulation, arterial pulse, respiration, peristalsis and exercise. Artificially, lymphatic movement can be stimulated by manual techniques that trigger receptors in the walls of the vessels.

Manual lymphatic drainage can be effective in improving a wid4e array of issues:

• Oedema / Lymphoedema
• Skin disorders
• Headaches
• Sinus congestion
• Sprains and generalised aches
• Digestive disorders
• Stress
• It is often used before and after surgery to reduce tissue congestion as well as part of a general detoxification programme.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle treatment that feels nothing like a deep tissue massage. This is because the lymphatic vessels are very thin and lie just below the skin. The aim is to stimulate the movement of lymph through the vessels towards the nodes via light, rhythmic, pumping movements.

Don’t be surprised if you haven’t heard much or anything at all about the lymphatic system. It is sometimes referred to as the “Cinderella System” of the body – it works tirelessly day and night, but without recognition. It is nonetheless inextricable from its more famous siblings (cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine) yet once you get to know & nurture it, it really steals the wellbeing show!

Currently only Biliana offers this service.