So many of our body’s systems are working behind the scenes to keep us strong and healthy, and one of the most important is the lymphatic system.
A brilliant part of the immune system, the lymphatic network plays an essential role in detox, stress relief, and fluid level maintenance. So if you’re looking to relieve some toxic burden, your lymphatic system may hold the keys to success.
The lymphatic system is often disregarded when it comes to modern medicine and whole body health. This is partly because modern science has only uncovered the tip of the iceberg when it comes to lymphatic drainage and our body’s immune responses.
This small but powerful system is negatively affected by chronic illnesses and the toxins in our environment. But when properly harnessed, it really does the most to regulate our bodies and protect us from infection.
What Exactly Is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is an amazing network in the human body that assists with immune function, fluid level maintenance, nutrient transportation, and so much more. Lymph nodes are the most well-known part of the lymphatic system, but there’s a lot more to it! Lymphatic vessels, lymphoid tissues, and lymphoid organs (like the spleen and tonsils) all play vital roles in the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system spreads over your entire body—from your head to your toes. Lymphatic fluid (aka lymph) flows through the body and is able to transport nutrients and flush icky out toxins and chemicals.
Symptoms of Lymphatic Dysfunction (And What Happens When the Lymph Flow Is Blocked)
How do you know if your lymphatic system isn’t performing optimally? Here are a couple of symptoms to look out for:
- Swollen lymph nodes (typically around your neck, head, and armpits)
- Sinus issues (runny nose, sinus infection, etc.)
- Skin rashes
- Tight skin
- Swelling in the body
- Brain fog
- Bloating
- Puffy face in the morning
When your lymph flow is blocked, there’s likely something more serious going on inside your body. It could be a cold, the flu, or even a chronic illness. Whatever the case, when your lymph vessels are plugged, you may have difficulty getting rid of toxins.
Getting your lymph moving is an important part of healing—and essential to flushing your body of chemicals and toxins.
Lymphatic System and the Face (Wrinkles, Puffiness, and Unwanted Fluid)
We love a good skincare chat. Recently, the lymphatic system in the face has gotten a lot of attention. Skincare gurus and influencers are noticing less puffiness in their face and neck when they use a dry brush or gua sha in the morning. This is no coincidence!
Morning puffiness may be a sign of a sluggish lymphatic system. Luckily, there’s an easy fix with morning gua sha or a five minute facial massage (seabuckthorn cleansing oil is great for this!). This will cleanse your face of dirt and pollutants while protecting your natural microbiome.
5 Easy Ways to Improve Lymphatic Drainage for Less Puffiness and Better Immune System Health
A clogged lymphatic system is a natural reaction to living in a world filled with toxins and pollutants. More and more people are experiencing the symptoms of lymphatic blockage—without recognizing the root cause. Whether or not you have symptoms, it’s important to be aware of the effects the environment may be having on your immune system—and to work to protect these vital systems in the body.
Massage is great for stress relief and reducing muscle aches. Those with chronic illness or toxic burden may be advised to get massages on a weekly or monthly basis. Lymphatic massage targets areas of the body—like the neck, underarms, and head—where lymph may be stuck. If you’re trying this massage for the first time, remember to stay hydrated and embrace the energy boost you may experience when it’s over! Try the Dry Brush daily!
Dry brushing has a myriad of benefits, like improved energy, increased blood flow, and better lymph flow. To dry brush, start at the top of your neck and brush toward your heart. When you get to your core, move to your feet and brush upward—again, toward your heart. Since dry brushing is a natural exfoliant, many people complete their dry brushing session before a shower.
Tip: Dry brushing gives you a boost of energy. It’s like a shot of natural caffeine! We recommend dry brushing in the morning so you can reap the benefits of increased energy.
You know what clogs your lymphatic system? Toxins. Putting chemicals (like aluminum) right next to your lymph nodes can be problematic for many reasons. You’re adding to your toxic burden, and you’re also blocking a vital detox method: sweat. A natural deodorant will help unblock your lymphatic system so you can sweat out unnecessary chemicals and environmental pollutants—and get your lymph fluid moving again.
Frequent exercise can force your lymph to get moving. Specifically, exercises like hiking or trampoline jumping can unblock your lymph. As a bonus, natural sweating is a great way to naturally remove toxins from your body.
Speaking of ridding your body of toxins. . . sweat is the easiest and most accessible way to say goodbye to them. Some studies suggest that toxins like BPA come out in our sweat—alongside excess hormones and other pollutants. This can lower stress levels in the body, giving your lymphatic system a chance to recover and recharge. Sweating can also increase blood flow and boost your mood.
Let Toups and Co Be Part of Your Lymphatic Drainage Journey
If you’re suffering from a chronic illness or want to support your immune system, lymphatic drainage is an essential part of your journey. By keeping your lymphatic system healthy and unblocked, you can decrease your risk of serious illness and keep your liver, kidneys, and immune system happy.
Decreasing your toxic burden is essential to overall lymphatic health—since toxins often hide in the lymph and may cause fluid blockages. All of our skincare products are organic and made with recognizable ingredients. Ditch the phthalates, parabens, and carcinogens and embrace the products our ancestors used.
Begin Your Skincare Journey with Toups and Co: