Massage

Licensed Massage Therapist Jodie Leigh Cowland answers all of your questions and concerns around Lymphatic Massage.

1. What should you do before a lymphatic massage?

• Stay hydrated drinking plenty of water. Must empty bladder before treatment starts. Having plenty of water in your system will allow the detoxification process to flow more smoothly. If you’re dehydrated, the process will take longer and might not be as effective.
• Eat a healthy light meal before your treatment. Nothing that causes your body of inflammation. Avoid: alcohol, sugary foods, fried food, and gluten.

2. What should I do after a lymphatic massage?

• Stay extra hydrated
• Stay away from heavy meals and anything that causes inflammation.
• Stay away from alcohol.  Alcohol causes inflammation in the water and blood system.
• Get in some gentle movement. No intense working out, but a light walk outside is always recommended to continue the flow in your system!

3. What are the benefits of a lymphatic massage?

• Reduction of Swelling and Inflammation
• Enhanced Immune System Function
• Relaxation and Stress Relief
• Treat Lymphedema effects
• Help with Post-surgical swelling
• Can help with Chronic venous insufficiency

4. How often can you do a lymphatic massage?

A person should schedule a series of sessions (one Lymphatic Detox Treatment per week for three weeks) and continue treatment until they notice a change. Treat yourself to one or two lymphatic drainage sessions every month if you experience a high frequency of common colds, allergies or headaches.

5. Risks and possible side effects:

Lymphatic drainage massage is generally considered safe, However, there are some risks and side effects to be aware of. Increased urine output: The body eliminates excess lymph by way of kidney filtration. This often results in the urge to use the restroom almost immediately at the conclusion of the massage session. It’s encouraged to drink plenty of fluids the day of the massage session. Herbal tea and water. Fatigue or drowsiness: Some individuals may feel tired or relaxed after the massage. This is a normal response. It is recommended to take it easy after your treatment. It is not recommended to receive  MLD massage and return to work/ have a busy day. Light movement followed with rest. Temporary increase in symptoms: In some cases, existing symptoms, such as headaches, nausea and fatigue, may temporarily worsen before improving.  This occurs because the body is adjusting to the increased lymphatic flow. – Again, plenty of fluids is a must! You should avoid getting a lymphatic drainage massage if you have an infection, heart condition, blood clots or kidney failure. Manual lymphatic Drainage massage while pregnant is OK.

6. Why is it important to make sure your massage therapist is trained?

Manual Lymphatic Massage is an additional modality certification. Some courses are 45 hours +  in training. This is not something you learn in basic massage therapy school. MLD Training in with in-depth knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system, and special techniques to manipulate the lymphatic system. Ensuring they understand how MLD affects the body.

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Lymphatic Drainage:

Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle and non-invasive form of body work that can be especially helpful for those who suffer from common colds, cellulite, autoimmune complications, inflammation in the abdominal and throughout the body, pre/post surgery and much more. It is common for females to receive a series (3 or more) of MLD massage before a vacation to help with inflammation.  Lymphatic drainage Massage stimulates the entire lymphatic system, boosts metabolism, boosts the immune system and “helps” the body to eliminate toxins (Viruses). Use lymphatic drainage massage if you have noticed a slow down in your metabolism, increase in hormonal imbalances, increase in allergies, feeling sluggish or heavier than normal or brain fog. Many times these symptoms can be a sign that there is a blockage in the lymphatic system. A person should schedule a series of sessions (one Lymphatic Detox Treatment per week for three weeks) and continue treatment until they notice a change. Treat yourself to one or two lymphatic drainage sessions every three months if you experience a high frequency of common colds, allergies or headaches. Facial and neck MLD is very beneficial and can be done at home with a lymphatic face roller or a guasha tool.

Pre-Surgical Lymphatic Massage:

Lymphatic Massage is helpful in preparing the body for surgery by clearing any stagnant toxins and waste that may be at or around the surgical sites. Receiving Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) treatments prior to a surgery helps to prepare the area of the body about to undergo an operation. It does this by stimulating the lymph vessels of the lymphatic system to remove cellular waste products, bacteria, viruses, excess proteins, excess fluid and any other unwanted substances from the spaces between your cells; essentially cleaning the tissue and optimizing the cellular environment for surgery.

The Effects of MLD treatment Prior to Surgery May:

• Reduce the risk of post-surgical infection
• Decrease excessive swelling
• Minimize bruising
• Prevent scar tissue formation
• Support the immune system so that it can process post-surgical

Post-Surgical Lymphatic Massage:

While some swelling is very normal and a necessary part of the inflammatory healing process, excessive or prolonged swelling can become problematic leading to longer healing times, increased pain, increased risk of infection, persistent swelling, and can adversely affect scar formation causing unwanted adhesions and decreased range of motion. That is why Plastic Surgeons highly recommend receiving Manual Lymphatic Drainage treatments. Your first post-surgery lymphatic massage should take place AFTER your one week follow-up with your surgeon.

Benefits:

• Healing times are accelerated
• Scar formation is minimized
• Risk of infection decreases
• Bruising and pain reduces

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Dry Brushing: 

Dry brushing is a daily body massage with a dry, stiff-bristled brush that helps to get rid of flaky skin, increase circulation, detoxify, help digestion, and even improve the appearance of cellulite. The mechanical action of dry brushing is excellent for exfoliating rough, dry skin. Dry brushing unclogs pores in the exfoliation process. It also helps detoxify your skin by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow/drainage. Additionally, by unclogging pores, it’s easier for the body to sweat and eliminate toxins in your system. Dry Brushing enhancement pairs well with a manual lymphatic massage. It also gives clients something to take home with them to continue MLD at home and in between MLD appointments!

Benefits:

• Detoxifying the skin
• Stimulating the nervous system
• Giving your skin a more radiant glow
• Gentler on your skin than scrubbing in the shower

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CBD: 

CBD binds to receptors throughout the body as part of a system. This system plays a crucial role in regulating important functions in the body. Where there is overactivity, inflammation, or pain, CBD can trigger the body’s ability to regulate and maintain balance.  CBD oil is another GREAT enhancement for MLD massage.

CBD aids:

• Sprains and strains
• Chronic pain and soreness
• Skin irritation
• Arthritis
• Anxiety

The cannabinoids in CBD massage oil helps to reduce inflammation and soothes muscles. This makes it very effective at providing relief from painful joints and muscles. People who suffer from chronic pain, arthritis, back pain, and so much more can reap the many benefits of a CBD oil massage.

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Lomi Lomi Specialty Massage:

Lomi Lomi massage is a healing art from Hawaiian Culture. Lomi Lomi massage in Hawaiian culture, extends beyond the physical act of massage, symbolizing a deeper process of healing transformation that integrates physical, spiritual and emotional aspects. Hawaiian healers crafted this massage style to restore balance and health.

Special Features:

• Rhythmic Strokes: A masseuse uses long, flowing movements with their forearms and hands. This helps create a sense of relaxation.
• Joint Rotations: Gentle stretching and rotating of the body’s joints encourage flexibility.
• Abdomen Massage: Rubbing the belly area is common to promote digestive health.
• Spine Movements: The therapist focuses on the spine with specific strokes to aid movement.
• Breathing Techniques: Both the person getting massaged and the masseur use deep breaths. This keeps energy moving during the session.
• Oils for Smoothness: High-quality oils like coconut or macadamia oil let hands glide over skin easily. Combined with Hawaiin floral essential oils like hibiscus scents.
• Full Body Focus: The massage covers all areas for thorough care.

Benefits:

• Relieving Stress and Tension: The long, flowing strokes of Lomi Lomi massage help to release tension and knots in the muscles, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
• Improving Circulation: By promoting the flow of energy throughout the body, Lomi Lomi massage can help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
• Enhancing Immune Function: Lomi Lomi massage can help to boost the immune system by increasing the flow of lymphatic fluid, which carries away waste and toxins from the body.
• Balancing Emotions: Lomi Lomi massage is designed to promote emotional balance and healing, helping to release negative emotions and promote a sense of inner peace.
• Boosting Energy Levels: By promoting the flow of energy throughout the body, Lomi Lomi massage can help to boost energy levels and leave you feeling revitalized

Book a Lomi Lomi Massage Here

Discover the other Specialty Massages we offer Here

Over the last year or so, people from every corner of the world had to pivot quickly to land on their feet when things went awry. In the hustle to morph our homes into makeshift offices,  command centers, and even classrooms, it’s entirely possible that there were plenty of things that may have slipped through the cracks. Undoubtedly, ergonomic desk setups, desk posture, and self-care are high on that list. 

Fast forward more than a year later, and here we are. Many of us are still sitting at awkward desk setups, probably for longer daily stints than we’d like. At the end of the day (both literally and figuratively), our neck and back muscles are likely paying the price through the accumulation of toxins that build up over time. 

Indeed, by this point, the knots in your neck might be in need of a little TLC, and a self-massage with lymphatic massage therapy can certainly help. 

While you can book a consultation with one of our licensed massage therapists, it’s understandable if you’re not quite ready to visit a spa just yet. If that’s the case, rest assured that doing self-massage at home can be equally beneficial for promoting lymphatic drainage. Ahead we take a closer look at what lymphatic drainage is, the benefits of a lymphatic drainage massage, and we share some tips for how you can do it at home. 

What is lymphatic drainage?

The lymphatic system is a network of connective tissues and organs that is responsible for draining and removing excess fluid and waste from your body. Additionally, the lymphatic system also transports fats, water, proteins, and toxins to lymph nodes which are small clusters of cells located throughout the body that contain immune cells and work to fight infection. 

Lymphatic drainage is the process by which your lymphatic system moves toxins out of your body tissues into the lymph nodes so they can be eliminated. Lymphatic drainage works by pulling toxins out of body tissues and transporting them through a fluid called lymph using lymph vessels, into the lymph nodes where the toxins are removed. Once toxins are removed, the result is fresh lymph fluid that continues circulating throughout the body to pick up and remove more toxins. 

However, the flow of lymph can be slowed down or blocked if toxins build up in a particular area resulting in a condition known as lymphedema. With lymphedema, you may notice swelling and reduced range of motion in the affected area. More importantly, the disrupted lymphatic drainage process reduces the effectiveness of your immune system because the removal of toxins is slowed down. To address lymphedema, you can use lymphatic drainage massage to help restore the natural flow of lymph fluid.

What is lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a type of gentle massage that promotes the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body. Essentially, the skin is gently stretched and released over known lymphatic pathways.

For most spas, lymphatic massage therapy is considered a cornerstone technique for reducing inflammation and fatigue, and it is often used to help rid the body of toxins. Moreover, lymphatic massage can help reduce stress and anxiety, boost your immune function, and glowing skin when performed on the face. 

How to do a lymphatic drainage massage at-home 

Lymphatic massage therapy is relatively easy to perform on your own, but it’s important to remember that the key to a successful outcome is light pressure. Essentially you’re only rubbing your skin and stretching it gently toward your lymph nodes. If you happen to feel the muscle under your skin, you’re likely pressing too hard, so a good rule of thumb is to use your finger pads only, not your palms. 

One of the best areas to do lymphatic drainage massage is your neck, because it contains some of the largest lymph nodes in your body. To begin, rest your fingertips in the triangular dip just above your collarbone. And again, with an extremely light touch, gently and slowly stretch the skin in a downward motion. 

Next, place your hands flat on the back of your neck, right at the base of the skull on either side of the spine. Then stretch the skin towards your spine and move your fingers down toward the base of your neck, and release. 

Finally, place your full right hand across your neck, resting your index finger on your jaw. With light contact and just enough pressure to gently stretch your skin, move your hands in a downward motion toward your collarbone. 

While it may take some time to get the hang of a lymphatic drainage massage, you may find that if you keep at it, you’ll feel a little less stressed and a bit more relaxed. 

When to visit a professional for lymphatic drainage massage

If you’re experiencing severe swelling or reduced range of motion in a particular area, you should talk with your doctor to discuss treatment options. They may recommend a combination of exercises, treatment lotions, and lymphatic massage therapy to help.

While at-home lymphatic massage therapy can be helpful for mild issues or as part of your regular body-care routine, for severe or ongoing issues a professional massage therapist is recommended. If you’re interested in scheduling a professional massage, book an appointment at your local milk + honey spa.

At a basic level, massage therapy is the pressing, rubbing, and manipulation of soft tissue to include muscles, tendons, and ligaments. On a deeper level, massage therapy is a relaxing and soothing experience with healing powers. Not only do massages relieve tight muscles, knots, and soreness, but they also offer relief from stress and anxiety. Moreover, they trigger the release of plenty of endorphins (otherwise known as the feel-good hormones). Indeed, a good massage will leave you feeling like you have a new lease on life, so it’s only natural to want to extend the benefits of your massage beyond your therapy session. Ahead we offer a few tips to help you keep that post-massage feeling. 

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER A MASSAGE

After getting a massage, you’ll likely feel loose and maybe even a little lightheaded for several hours after. It’s also possible you may feel sore or sensitive if you received a deep tissue massage; as these massages involve intense stimulation to muscle groups across your body. 

HOW TO EXTEND THE BENEFITS AFTER A MASSAGE

Aside from feelings of relaxation, massage therapy can help improve blood circulation, mobility, and your ability to sleep. To extend the benefits, make sure to do these things after a massage:

TAKE A RELAXING BATH 

A warm bath can be quite relaxing but beyond that, think of it as a way to continue the process of releasing tight muscles and alleviate any lingering soreness. While the warm water (not hot) can do plenty on its own, you can also add Epsom salts to your bath to help flush toxins from the cells and ease muscle pain. Consider a calming bath soak like Milk & Honey’s Blend Nº 08 infused with lavender and eucalyptus. And for particularly tight muscles, try following it up with Milk & Honey’s soothing Arnica Balm to stimulate your circulation and reduce pain and swelling. 

STRETCH 

It should come as no surprise that your muscles are warm after your massage, and for that reason, it may be an ideal time to gently stretch problem areas. Not only will it help you maintain that relaxed feeling, but you’ll also find that you’ll be able to achieve a deeper stretch with very little effort. 

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER 

After your therapy session, your massage therapist may advise that you drink plenty of water, and there’s a good reason for this. Massage therapy often releases toxins and metabolic waste, which needs to be flushed out. This process could go on for up to two to three days after your massage, and drinking plenty of water will facilitate the process. Moreover, it will keep dehydration and fatigue at bay. 

STAY ACTIVE 

After a massage, your muscles may likely stiffen up a bit; this is especially true of deep tissue massages. To minimize any discomfort, consider a little light exercise (like walking) to keep joints mobile and stimulate blood flow. 

TRY A SELF-MASSAGE 

A foam roller or tennis ball can be particularly useful for working trouble spots a little more. These tools have the added benefit of releasing tight muscles and pinpointing crunchy muscles, so you can extend the benefits of your massage and maintain the progress you’ve made between appointments.  

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY, REST IF YOU NEED TO

While light exercise and stretching are often recommended, everyone is different, so it’s equally important to listen to your body. If you feel like you’d rather sleep, then go for it. Remember that while massages can be healing, it’s a process. By giving yourself time to rest, you’ll undoubtedly aid your body’s repair and regeneration processes and extend the benefits of your massage even further. If you’d like to book a massage, do so with the experienced massage therapists at milk + honey spa. Check locations, book now, or purchase a gift certificate for future use!