Lymphatic drainage (both manual and using our LET technique!) is amazing post workout. Weather you are training for a competition or casually working out clearing your lymph passageways can help you feel better faster!
Lymphatic therapy gently encourages lymph fluid (in the interstitial spaces) back to the regional lymph nodes, in order to increase the micro-filtration of water and macro molecules in the body (proteins, lipids, minerals, enzymes, toxins, cancer cells, hormones, cell deigns, dyes, coals, dissolved gases, pathogens, carbohydrates AND most importantly plasma protein). Encouraging the flow of this fluid can reduce swelling and make muscles appear more toned and can also help your body recover from working out.
How it Works
When your lymphatic system functions normally, we feel healthy and strong, when it is sluggish we can experience swelling and feel worn out or tired. After a workout, lymph vessels can become overwhelmed with the demand placed on them (ever notice swelling in your hands or fingers after an intense workout?). Fluid can pool up because your lymph system has no pump and it is important to help flush out the fluid. Recovery time can be decreased drastically the quicker we can move stagnant fluid out and flood the tissue with fresh nourishment for regeneration.
A study done in 2015 on the effects of lymphatic drainage and post workout recovery shows that lymphatic drainage can also reduce lactic acid build up in your muscles. “Following an increase immediately after exercise, lactic acid (LA) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) serum levels dropped rapidly and significantly at the end of MLD application and two hours after,” the study said.
The study found that lymphatic drainage may have improved “the regenerative process elicited by structural damage to the muscle cells”
What to Expect After Your Treatment:
Lymphatic Drainage has a number of benefits, clients report feeling calmer, more relaxed, less bloated, better digestion, improved sleep, clear sinuses, and less brain fog. After a post-workout lymphatic session you may notice your body looks less puffy, muscles feel less sore, the next day soreness decreases and your following workouts are easier – i.e. your legs won’t feel like lead after leg day!
Self Care:
There are things you can do at home to help improve the flow of your lymph system. Proper deep breathing techniques can help move fluid through the lymphatic system as well as providing fresh oxygen to your tissue. Dry-brushing is helpful to move stagnant fluid out of the tissue and encourage the flow of lymph. Calendula based oils and lotions are amazing for skin hydration and the lymphatic system. There are also herb tinctures that can increase your lymphatic flow such as Chickweed, Cleavers and Indigo, we recommend consulting with an herbalist to find a tincture that works best for you!