Lymphatic System
Before Todd’s diagnosis, I didn’t know too much about the lymphatic system. I use to work in a surgery center so I knew about lymph node dissections. I also worked in an oncologist and hematologist office and knew about lymphoma and that when cancer metastasized to the lymph nodes it was not good. But I did not take the time to ever wonder how the system worked. Unless we have some interest in learning nursing or medical, most of us don’t really pay much attention to how our bodies work.
The lymphatic system is part of the vascular system and plays a huge role in our immune system. It is made up of lymphatic vessels, nodes, organs (spleen, thymus, and liver), and lymphoid tissue (tonsils, adenoids, and bone marrow) All working to protect us from infection and disease by carrying lymph fluid containing white blood cells throughout the body to help rid your system of toxins. There are approximately 600-700 lymph nodes to produce and store these fighting cells. Pretty much your bodies filtration system.
Unlike your blood vessels that circulate a continuous flow with the heart as the pump, the lymph system only flows in one direction, upwards from your extremities towards the neck. There is no pump for the lymphatics, and it must rely on your musculoskeletal system to circulate the fluid. Therefore, your movements are literally the pump. There are several at home techniques you can do to promote this.
The obvious one being movement. Any activities that involve moving your whole body, getting those arms and legs going. These exercises can be as simple as a good paced walk or a workout routine, if your moving, so is the lymph fluid. Rebounding is jumping on a small trampoline. The lymphatic system basically runs vertically and when you think about it, up and down, right? So the rebounding is an excellent way to get lymph moving with the compression and releasing of the tissues and muscles. Todd tries to rebound often, he cranks on some good music and does it for as long as he can.
Another great way to activate your lymphatic system is to do some dry skin brushing. This process helps release toxins and stimulates the lymphatic system. Toxins build up and are released when we sleep making the morning (before a shower) the most optimal time for brushing. The process is quick and easy, only takes about 5-10 minutes. Using a natural bristle brush start with your extremities and brush toward the middle. For the best results brush at least 3 times a week, and it can be done daily if preferred. I do the brushing for Todd, but if doing it yourself look for a brush that has a handle so that you can reach all the way around. A great tip is using essential oils on the brush to also help circulate the lymph and rid the dead skin. Any detoxing oils work well like grapefruit or lemon. You can also use any cellular oils like frankincense or lemongrass. There are other benefits from the brushing that include increased energy and improving cellulite.
We have been using the cellular complex blend, DDR Prime by doTERRRA. This is a powerful antioxidant blend for all things cellular related, especially good for Todd’s situation (he uses this topically and internally). These essential oils have properties that are used for cancer, tumors, autoimmune disorders, detox, inflammatory issues and much more. To read more about this amazing blend click the link below. I’m here to answer any questions you may have in the comment section or you can contact me directly through the contact page.
We want to help you live a natural healing life! I have talked a little bit about the benefits of breathing exercises and deep breaths will also help your lymphatic system. When you exhale for twice as long than you inhale, this brings oxygen to the blood and then activates the lymphatic system. These efforts along with a healthy diet and plenty of water will definitely help how efficient your lymph system works. Protecting your immune system is key to keep fighting off the toxins in our everyday life.
