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What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage and How to Do It At Home

September 15, 2021
self massage

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.

Massage, Treatments

Benefits of Detox Steam And Massage Treatment

June 23, 2021
woman getting a relaxing massage

When you opt for a detox steam and massage from milk + honey, you’ll know from the description that it includes a body brushing, our signature massage with a delightful blend of rosemary, echinacea, eucalyptus, and geranium essential oils, and, of course, a steam treatment. But what are the benefits of steam, and why should you choose the detox steam and massage over any other body treatment to begin with? 

While the menus and brochures from your favorite spa might provide the information you need to make a decision, chances are you’ll still have questions about your treatment prior to your appointment. What should you wear? What happens when you walk into the treatment room? Will your massage therapist leave you alone in the room? If it’s your first time, your questions and (and maybe a little apprehension) are completely understandable. 

Ahead, we take a look at milk + honey’s Detox Steam and Massage. We’ll talk about the benefits of steam for your body (and why you may want to consider adding this treatment highlight to your spa experience), and we’ll also walk you through the process so you’ll know exactly what to expect when it’s time for your appointment.  
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Massage

WHAT TO DO AFTER A MASSAGE

June 23, 2021
woman getting a massage

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!

Massage

5 Reasons Why Massage Is Good For You

June 7, 2021

While massage is often viewed as the ultimate act of self-care, or a treat, or a luxury, the truth is regular massages can be incredibly good for you, and there are plenty of massage benefits beyond the obvious indulgence. Most people know that massage can be relaxing, but what you may not know is that massage can have a profound effect on your overall health and wellness.  If you’re feeling a little sore, a little tight, a little tense or anxious, massage therapy can help you get things back into balance. Ahead, we’ll take a look at 5 reasons why massage is good for you. 

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Body, Massage, Wellness

reconnect with your physical self

February 19, 2018

In this day and age, connectivity is a funny subject. In a way, we’re more connected than ever. From FaceTime to Facebook, we’ve been provided with countless accessible tools to keep us in touch. The catch? Sometimes we forget to stop and reconnect with ourselves — our own physical being.

We spoke with milk + honey licensed Massage Therapist to discuss ways to reconnect with your physical self. Continue Reading…

Massage, Skin, Skin Care, Wellness

hydrate, feel great.

January 19, 2018

If you’ve ever read the beauty routines of models and celebrities, surely you’ve been sung the praises of drinking enough water. Still, quenching that thirst is incredibly important for your overall wellness — it’s not just a beauty hack. It seems everyone has a lot to say about said topic, but our resident milk + honey experts are sharing hydration perspectives on two fronts: skincare and the wellness of your body.

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Body, Massage, Uncategorized, Wellness

4 Steps to a Top-Notch Massage

October 26, 2017

We know what you’re thinking. What could possibly make a massage even better? We have the answer: a massage with enhancements. Each enhancement will take your massage to the next level by addressing a specific intention.

 

If you’re on the go:

Our back scrub or foot scrub doesn’t add much time to your reservation, but it makes the experience extra special. The added exfoliation is also great for circulation and removing dead skin.

If you’re feeling adventurous:

We recommend giving Body Brushing a try. It feels interesting and invigorating. The process helps to prevent cellulite, stimulate circulation, and lymphatic drainage. The best part? You keep the brush and take it home with you. Dry brushing at home can become a simulating ritual, similar to drinking a cup of coffee in the morning.

If you’re trying to beat the cold, winter months:

Our Warm Oil Scalp and Neck massage is the perfect wintertime treat. This enhancement adds an extra 15 minutes to your experience, as your therapist drizzles warm oil down your head and neck before performing a scalp massage.  Make sure you have time to enjoy the steam shower after this enhancement. This icing on the cake with this enhancement: the oils are incredibly hydrating for your hair.

If you want the ultimate “treat yourself” experience:

The Ultimate Massage package includes full body brushing, a 90-minute massage, as well as the Warm Oil Scalp and Neck massage. It’s just as luxurious as it sounds–we promise.

 

Still curious about our enhancements?

Check out the full list here.

 

Massage, Wellness

5 Lesser Known Benefits of Massage

October 24, 2017

As we enter National Massage Week, we find ourselves smack dab in the middle of a revolution. From wellness blogs to countless Instagram experts, we’re being encouraged to prioritize ourselves more than ever. Without a doubt, massage is one key piece to a well-rounded wellness puzzle. In fact, massage has many lesser known benefits. Scroll on to learn a handful of massage benefits.

Mood Booster

It’s no secret that massages are a stress reliever, but there’s actual science to prove it. In fact, studies show that massage boosts your serotonin by as much as 30 percent. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that reduces depression and regulates anxiety.

Improves Balance

Emotional balance, check. Physical balance, also check. Massage can help improve stability and balance — especially for older folks. A study suggests massage may produce physiological changes that contribute to improved balance.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Yep, seriously. Lowered blood pressure results have been reported lasting up to 72 hours after massage therapy. This particular test was conducted using Swedish style massage.

Regulates Sleep

Okay, yes — it’s common for some to fall asleep on the massage table. But even outside of the spa, there is research that indicates massage improves sleep for adults.

Keeps You Active

Sports Massages are wonderful for increasing range of motion and speeding recovery in athletic-related injuries.

 

 

Ready for your next massage?

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Body, Massage

Which Massage Style Is Right For You?

July 11, 2017

Today, 2nd Street District massage therapist, Monique, gives us the 411 on the differences between three individual massage techniques.

Massage therapy is a vast field with a variety of different techniques and treatments. If you’re not a massage therapist, it can be a bit difficult choosing what type of technique is best for you. Well, take a deep breath. I’m going to break down the differences between the Big Three: Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Sports Massage. 

To start, Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Sports Massage are all massage modalities.  Within each of these modalities, I’ll use different massage techniques to help you achieve your individual goals. I like to tell my clients to think of massage as a blank canvas. The primary colors are the basic techniques of Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Sports, which provide the foundation for any session. By mixing these colors, or techniques, you get different variations and modalities. All of these different massage techniques can be incorporated into your session so that it caters to your unique and individual needs.

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