Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.
The Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) activity influences the Gastrointestinal functions. Studies have shown that the stimulation of the PNS through Manual Lymphatic Drainage provides constipation relief by: Increasing intestinal motility .
Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic drainage massage. Some people, however, complain of headaches, nausea and fatigue. When that happens, you should ask your healthcare provider about managing your side effects.
Loosen tight clothing – this inhibits lymph flow. Increase the amount of water you drink over the next few days – the body will be in a state of high toxicity for a few days after the treatment. Reduce your caffeine intake (coffee, tea, colas) Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
The waste products are released from the body with increased urination. What do you feel after the lymphatic drainage? Generally, your limbs feel light, you are more relaxed, you see a reduction in the appearance of cellulite, and feel more energy.
Immediate results are general lightness and deep relaxation. The fluid drainage can occurs 24-48 hours post session. The difference in drainage also varies from person to person, depending on the health of their lymphatic systems.
The pumping action of deep breathing will help the lymphatic system transport the toxins into the blood before they are detoxified by the liver.
Our lymphatic system collects and filters fluid from all the tissue in our body. In the lymph nodes waste products are removed or broken down into smaller parts. The lymph fluid returns to the circulatory system (heart, veins and arteries) just before the blood enters the heart.
Lymphatic drainage further improves blood circulation, relaxes the body, and fights localized fat. Many clients report a slimmer waist and weight loss after a massage. After a massage, your circulatory system can quickly get rid of excess fluid as well as the toxic buildup.
Immune cells (lymphocytes) may build up in the area as well. The inflammation may keep your large intestine from reabsorbing as much water as it should. This leads to diarrhea, belly pain, and other symptoms.
Drink extra fluids, ideally 2–4 glasses of water, after each massage to help flush the body.
The other important reason why we drink water is to flush out the toxins that have been released by your massage, or 'helping the process of lymphatic drainage'. The more tension that is released during the massage, the more metabolic waste is released into your system.
Lymphatic drainage also improves circulation, relaxes the body and combats localized fat. Many clients report a slimmer waist and loss of excess water weight after their massage. After your massage your circulatory system can quickly remove any extra fluids and toxic build-ups.
After the massage, drink plenty of water. Dehydration is often discussed during this treatment. Incorporate green foods, especially superfoods, to improve digestion.
Looking After Your Lymphatic System
Drink plenty of water – Dehydration is one of the most common causes of lymphatic congestion which can further exacerbate existing lymph problems. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day encourages healthy lymphatic function and reduces water retention.
The lymph fluid carries the waste products and destroyed bacteria back into the bloodstream. The liver or kidneys then remove these from the blood. The body passes them out with other body waste, through bowel movements (poo) or urine (pee).
Once your therapist is done with drainage, they will focus on restimulating your lymphatic system to improve the flow in your body. This helps prevent future issues and blockages. It's normal to feel very relaxed for this part of the session. Once finished, you may need to rest for a little before leaving.
Massages can be dehydrating, so it's best to replenish your body with water. Drink 2-4 glasses of water after your massage to help properly flush out your lymphatic system. Drinking water helps flush your kidneys which are responsible for getting rid of toxins.
Lymphatic drainage can leave you feeling exhausted. You may want to have a lie down, or at the very least, a very undemanding schedule for the rest of the day. Give your body time to ease back into activity. Lymphatic drainage massage may also leave you really thirsty.
Not sure whether your lymphatic drainage massage should be done in the morning or evening? It's up to you! In the morning, lymphatic drainage is ideal for helping to reduce puffiness in the face after waking up. It also helps to prep your skin for your daytime skincare products, before you start the day.
If the lymph system gets blocked or overrun lymph fluid backs up. This chronic lymph blockage can cause swelling, joint pain, nausea and fatigue, as well as the symptoms listed below. Stagnant lymph can be stored within lymph nodes for a long time but will eventually become too toxic for the body to manage.
After Care:
Be gentle with yourself after lymphatic drainage. Drink lots of water to help your body flush out the toxins and to prevent dehydration. Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours afterwards and avoid hot baths, showers, or sauna's immediately after treatment.
The most common symptom of lymphoedema is swelling. Some people also feel heaviness or aching in the affected area. Lymphoedema symptoms related to cancer treatment might develop when: the cancer blocks a lymph node or some lymph vessels.