The lymphatic system and massage

The lymphatic system is considered a "shadow system" to the blood system. Its function is to collect as much as three litres of waste, toxins and lymphatic fluid every day. This material is obtained from the circulating blood and tissues; and thereafter disposed off within the large intestine.

It is well known that massaging the muscles also simelatenously massages the lymphatic system as well. This promotes better functionality and fluidity.

The various forms of massage are still practiced throughout Asia. eg. Thai Massage, Indian Head Massage and many more. All these different variations originate from Ayurveda teachings.

Massage is a profoundly effective technique to help increase the body's natural flow of lymph by increasing lymphatic circulation through the body's natural filtration systems. This increased circulation assists in detoxifying the body and supports our health through a better functioning immune system.

Massage has been proven to be helpful for clients suffering from lack of energy, a sluggish immune system, emotional stress and depression, sports related injuries and cases where auxiliary lymph nodes have been removed.

Other applications include:
Depressed immune response due to poor production of white blood cells
Chronic fatigue syndrome and frequent colds or flu
Skin disorders including acne, eczema, poor complexion, etc.
Digestive disorders
Edema (swelling) of all kinds
Sinus congestion
Tension headaches
Muscle sprains or broken bones (above and below the site of the break)
Allergies
Insomnia
Toothache
Circulatory problems
Emotional stress and depression.

Definitions:

Lymph: A clear fluid that travels through lymph vessels carrying immune system cells and tissue waste products.

Lymph nodes: Small, pea-sized collections of tissue found near the breast under the arm, above the collarbone, in the chest, and in many other parts of the body. Lymph nodes filter lymph, and store immune cells such as lymphocytes.

Lymphatic system: Tissues and organs that produce and carry white blood cells that fight infection. The system includes a network of thin tubes that carry lymph and white blood cells. The tubes branch into all tissues of the body.

Lymphedema: A condition in which fluid does not drain from the lymph nodes, causing swelling. Sometimes this happens in the arm after lymph nodes have been removed from the underarm. It can also happen after radiation therapy.

Lymphocyte: A type of white blood cell. Lymphocytes are responsible for certain types of immunity; they also produce antibodies and other substances that fight infection and disease.