9 HOLISTIC WAYS TO DETOX YOUR LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

Most people have heard of the lymphatic system, but few know what it really does or how to detox it properly.

Our lymphatic system is part of our circulatory system, and it works together with the immune system to cleanse waste and remove toxins from the body by way of the lymph vessels, lymph nodes, and lymph organs. Fun fact: The majority of our lymph tissue resides in our gut!

A clogged lymphatic system is associated with chronic illness and can cause breast tenderness, eczema, skin problems, cold limbs, bloating, headaches, and physical rigidity.

Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system has no pump. Therefore it needs to be stimulated by movement or breath. There are many ways to do this, but I’ve listed my favorites below:

1. REBOUNDING

Rebounding on a mini trampoline cleanses the entire lymphatic system in just 10-15 minutes by creating a pump-like motion similar to how our heart pumps blood.

2. HOT + COLD SHOWERS & CONTRAST THERAPY

The fluctuation between hot and cold dilates and constricts the vessels creating a pump for the lymph and moving it through the lymphatic system.

3. DEEP BREATHING

Breath is so powerful. When you take a deep breath, the changes in chest cavity pressure stimulate the flow of lymph through the lymphatic system and away from the area affected by lymphoedema.

4. CASTOR OIL PACKS

Castor oil packs detoxify the liver and the lymphatic system by allowing for the proper removal of toxins, thus reducing the swelling in lymph nodes and increasing the overall flow of lymph. You gently pour castor oil (glass bottle only) on the pack and place it over the liver. They have both cold and hot ones at New Day Wellness in Memphis.

5. DRY BRUSHING

Using a dry brush, you whisk your entire body with a stiff, bristled brush in small circular motions, preferably before showering. This sweeping movement massages the lymphatic system, systematically removing any blockages to the lymphatic flow.

6. LEMON WATER + HYDRATION

Our lymphatic system is 95 percent water, so the lymph does not flow properly without proper hydration. Adding in lemon helps to alkalize and maintain our pH balance which further facilitates the flow of lymph. It also aids in the digestion and absorption of b12 and iron! Win! Win!

7. INFRARED SAUNA

One of my favorites! The stress from heat and the light from the infrared stimulates the body to release toxins hidden deep in our fat cells, aiding in the flow of lymph. Some of these toxins are metals like mercury, nickel, cadmium, alcohol, nicotine, and harmful inorganic compounds.

I love the Sunlighten one they have at New Day Healing and Wellness because it is EMF-free.

8. LYMPHATIC MASSAGE

Manual lymphatic drainage, aka lymphatic drainage massage, works on specific areas of the body to promote better lymph flow from the clogged lymph nodes toward functioning lymph vessels. In doing this, lymphatic massage alleviates swelling due to illness or medical treatments.

9. COMPRESSION THERAPY

Compression therapy garments go over the legs and inflate. The pressure reduces and controls lymphoedema by supporting the muscles that facilitate the movement of lymph away from the blockage and toward free-moving fluid.

Audrey Stimpson MPS; CFNC is a Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor specializing in ADHD, autism, autoimmune, hormonal imbalances, and gut-brain health. Audrey truly believes that by healing our gut-brain connection, we can live a life free from stimulants, brain fog, pain, and IBS. Visit Audreystimpson.com or @audreystimpson on social media.