How to Get a Lymphatic Drainage Massage

If you have a health issue that keeps lingering, such as fall-out from a bout of pneumonia, a recurring cold or flu or various types of cancer, lymphatic drainage may help. Lymph nodes, or glands, that are unable to combat health threats impair the body's ability to safely drain toxins. These remain internally and depress normal system functions. Lymphatic drainage massage is a painless way to restore equilibrium.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Practitioner of lymphatic drainage massage

1. Use lymphatic drainage to detoxify or to reduce the risk of infection after surgery or cancer treatment.

2. Sign up for ongoing lymphatic drainage massage therapy for recurrent conditions of cold, flu or immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or HIV.

3. Locate a capable practitioner of lymphatic drainage massage. Get referrals from a state licensing board, wellness center or another massage therapist.

4. Make an appointment for a manual lymphatic drainage. The duration can vary greatly, so ask for a time estimate after discussing your health goals and concerns with the massage therapist.

5. Reduce or eliminate alcohol and caffeine from your diet for half a day before and after your massage.

6. Lie on the massage table face up or face down, and cover your body with the towels or sheets provided, as your therapist advises.

7. Relax and savor the feeling of very gently applied pressure and smooth strokes that open the lymphatic pathways and promote detoxification.

8. Incorporate lymphatic drainage massage into your regular health maintenance routine. Ask your therapist or natural health care provider how often you will need this service.

9. Realize gradual physical benefits as the underlying causes of your lymphatic blockage are addressed through massage.

Tips & Warnings

• This type of massage is also called "manual lymphatic drainage."
• Most regular full-body massages will encourage detoxification, but a lymphatic drainage massage will concentrate on the process.
• Lymphatic drainage massage utilizes very gentle pressure and is suitable for even the most sensitive types.
• Manual lymphatic drainage takes place like a regular table massage--unclothed, but draped under towels or sheets.
• Ask your doctor about massage if you have a history of heart or breathing problems.
• Do not get a treatment while you are suffering from a transmittable infection, such as cold or flu virus. Massage therapists are at severe risk of contamination through touch.
• Lymphatic drainage massage can leave you feeling tired and thirsty. Rest and drink plenty of water for the rest of the day.