Lymphatic drainage body massage - what it is, how it works, techniques and types.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a special technique of manual or hardware influence on the body, which allows you to influence the movement of lymph in the body. In addition to the cosmetic effect, lymphatic drainage massage has a healing effect on the body: removing toxins, improving blood circulation, strengthening the immune system. The procedure using this technique must be done in a course of 7-13 procedures, 3 times a week and repeated 2 times a year. In the article we talk about the correct techniques, indications and contraindications for lymphatic drainage massage, which will help you look 5-10 years younger than your age without the use of expensive cosmetics and painful injection procedures.

What is the lymphatic system

Blood delivers oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues, which in turn release various metabolic products. This is where the lymphatic system begins its work. It is part of the vascular system and is involved in the process of cleansing the blood, and therefore the entire body.

Lymph flows through the lymphatic system. It is called living water, since it is it that removes all impurities and toxins. But it happens that the lymph stagnates and then acne, rashes, cellulite and swelling appear. And your mood disappears somewhere, because you don’t feel very good. Lymphatic drainage massage helps to cope with the problem.

Description

An effective treatment procedure that involves stimulating lymph circulation is called lymphatic drainage hand massage.
Thanks to such procedures, the elimination of toxins is accelerated, metabolism is significantly improved, and the immune system is strengthened. The peculiarity of the massage is soft wave-like movements carried out along the lymph flow to the lymphatic vessels. How long the course of hand lymphatic drainage will be is calculated individually for each client, taking into account the severity of the problem.

To prevent a particular disease that can be caused by lymphostasis, in most cases about ten to twelve sessions are performed. One session is scheduled every two days. To prevent varicose veins, lymphatic drainage of the hands is recommended approximately once every five to seven days.

What is lymphatic drainage massage and how does it work?

Lymphatic drainage massage was developed by a French doctor. He noticed that swelling in patients goes away much faster if you knead the area along the lymph flow lines. This technique was first used to treat veins, but is now being used to treat aesthetic problems as well.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a procedure that stimulates the lymph system and facilitates the movement of fluid in the body. Helps release cells and tissues from toxins.

Since lymph moves towards the heart (that is, from bottom to top), the massage must be carried out in this direction. During the massage, special massage lines are used, which cannot be crossed, otherwise the result will be exactly the opposite of what was expected. . But sticking to this rule is not at all difficult - the body itself will tell you where exactly you need to press.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a pleasant procedure. It consists of stroking and pressing. At first the movements are smooth, slow and soft to warm up the skin, but by the middle of the session they become denser and faster. But at the very beginning you may experience bruising and slight pain. this means that the lymph is very stagnant. Once you loosen it up and get it moving again, the procedure will become more enjoyable.

To achieve visible results, massage must be done regularly. So make time for it.

general information

The lymphatic system is responsible for removing harmful substances and waste products from the human body. This happens in the skin. But if even a minimal failure occurs in a well-functioning system, then fluid immediately begins to accumulate, especially on the hips, abdomen, and jawline. And failures often occur due to a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition.

Therefore, it turns out that lymphatic drainage massage is the best assistant for losing weight. Lymph flow improves, thanks to which excess fluid is eliminated faster. In the near future you will already see the result. A couple of kilograms will be thrown off lightly. If you want to improve your skin both from the inside and outside, then you should continue the massage course, adding training in the gym. The effect will amaze you.

Typically, there are two types of lymphatic drainage massage - hardware and manual. Hardware massage is very easy to do, and even now it can be done even at home, you do not depend on the work schedule of the massage parlor and it is affordable. Well, you can do manual massage yourself. This technique is quite energy-intensive, but it will help you study the lymphatic system, and your efforts will bring tangible results. If you are not scared by the prospect of studying your body, then we still recommend visiting a massage therapist once to better understand and have no doubt that you are doing lymphatic drainage massage at home correctly.

To begin with, it is worth noting that lymphatic drainage massage on your own at home consists of light pressure and gentle sliding along the lymph flow line.

Lymph flow moves in different directions, but the main lines are:

from the neck towards the chest;
from the wrists towards the shoulders;
from the abdomen towards the hip joints;
from the legs towards the hip joints.

The most important lymph nodes are located under the lower jaw, on the sides of the neck, in the armpits, along the elbows, and in the center of the chest.

Contraindications:

impaired functioning of the kidneys and heart muscle;
oncology;
pregnancy;
infectious diseases;
inflammation of the lymph nodes;
burns, injuries, open wounds;
asthma;
varicose veins;
neuralgia;
diabetes;
chronic diseases;
fragile vessels.

Lymphatic drainage massage will help with the following problems:

cellulite;
adjust your figure;
reduce weight;
relieves swelling and bruises;
getting rid of headaches;
will help get rid of tension;
improves your skin tone;
improves complexion;
relieves acne and other rashes;
smooth out stretch marks and small scars;
eliminates wrinkles;
will rejuvenate the body as a whole.

Indications

Lymphatic drainage massage is effective in the following cases:

cellulite;
postoperative scars;
stretch marks;
tendency to corpulence;
swelling;
phlebeurysm;
obesity;
metabolic disease.

If you once turned to plastic surgery and it left its mark, then lymphatic drainage massage can also help.

But it’s better not to lead to a problem, but to start doing massage for prevention. It definitely won't be redundant.

How is the procedure performed?

The session does not require any preparation. But it is still recommended to adhere to some rules. Alcohol should be excluded and drinking regime should be monitored, especially before bedtime. Massage is most effective in the afternoon and not earlier than 2-3 hours after eating. If you follow these recommendations, massage sessions will certainly be effective, as confirmed by the reviews of many women.

Drinking plenty of fluids before the session helps increase effectiveness. The patient's skin is cleansed with gel and a massage cream or oil is applied. It is very useful to take a shower with a scrub before the procedure. Before the start of the hardware treatment, the master accelerates blood circulation in the massage areas with rubbing movements.

After completing the session, you do not need to get up immediately, remaining for another 10 minutes in a horizontal position.

Zones for lymphatic drainage

Edema occurs in completely different parts of the body. But most often they affect the lower limbs and face. This is due to the fact that these zones are as far as possible from the heart and congestion forms there much more easily. And stagnation turns into stinking swamps of bacterial corpses, pathogenic cells and other debris that need to be dispersed and removed.

But most often, girls do massage on problem areas of the body - they get rid of the sides, folds on the stomach, saggy hips and cellulite buttocks.

Types of lymphatic drainage massage

Lymphatic drainage massage can be performed with your hands and using special devices. Some are accessible to anyone, while others can only be used by specialists.

Manual techniques are divided into 3 classes:

Superficial lymphatic drainage - circular movements are performed with gentle pressure. This method stimulates the work of capillaries, which are responsible for the accumulation and removal of fluid. After the massage, the lymph begins to move faster, and vascular spasm will disappear.
Deep lymphatic drainage - with this method, movements are faster and more intense. Due to this, lymph vessels and deep muscle layers are worked out. This helps to activate blood flow, increase muscle tone and dilate blood vessels. Most often, this method is used on particularly problem areas - the abdomen, thighs and buttocks.
Point lymphatic drainage - here the effect occurs specifically on the lymph nodes. This is where the massage begins.

Hardware technology involves the use of special devices. They are the ones who influence the tissues and activate the outflow of stagnant lymph.

The most popular hardware techniques:

Vacuum massage - the procedure is reminiscent of treating a cold with medical cups. You will need special jars that apply pressure, as a result of which the lymph flow increases and excess fluid quickly comes out. Due to the rarefied nature of the air, cups allow you to act on the deepest layers of the dermis. In addition, they provoke the work of the sebaceous and sweat glands, so the effect of them is compared to going to the bathhouse. You can buy miracle jars on Beauty365.
Pressotherapy - you put on special pants or boots and compressed air begins to press on the area. Essentially, it's like measuring blood pressure—a bandage is placed on your arm that produces pressure. Under the influence of compressed air, the blood begins to move faster and all stagnation is eliminated.
Microcurrent – Small electrodes are attached to the face or body and deliver a pulsed current. The current, in turn, accelerates the removal of fluid from the body.

You don't have to resort to complex salon procedures to achieve good results. Moreover, the device may not be of high quality, and the technician may not be a professional. Don't trust your body in inexperienced hands! Better take care of yourself. Combine manual massage with vacuum massage and you will get amazing results.

Types of hardware impact:

Galvanization. Under the influence of microcurrent, immune metabolic processes are activated, which relieves tissues of excess lymphatic fluid.
Electroiontophoresis. The procedure is useful in the treatment of problem skin, in the fight against age-related changes by introducing a useful complex of drugs, vitamins using electric current.
Vacuum lymphatic drainage. This technique of hardware influence is based on the principle of influence of the “cans” familiar to us from childhood. In this case, the specialist does not leave the jars in one place, but moves them along the lymphatic lines. The vacuum creates negative pressure, which enhances lymph drainage. This type of hardware action requires highly qualified specialists, otherwise excessive negative pressure may be created, which can damage the epidermis.
Pressotherapy. Impact on the body using a special suit with a special device - a microcontroller, which creates the necessary pressure, pumping air and influencing selected areas of the body. As a result of the procedure, the rate of fluid outflow and the removal of toxins naturally increases. Pressotherapy is useful in the fight against obesity, excess weight, and also as a recovery procedure after serious physical exertion.
Microcurrent drainage. Treatment of the upper layer of the skin using pulses from a device with reduced electrical discharge. This type of lymphatic drainage is useful in combating age-related changes. The patient does not feel microcurrent shocks, the procedure is absolutely painless.

How does a lymphatic drainage massage session work?

Lymphatic drainage is carried out using oil for better glide. Try squalane from Beauty365 - it will make the process as comfortable as possible. By the way, it is even suitable for cupping massage.

At the very beginning, the body is warmed up (as in a classic massage), and then they move on to the lymphatic drainage itself. It is carried out strictly along the flow of lymph and near the lymph nodes. This may take from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Depends on the number of problem areas, skin condition and your patience. You should start with a small amount of time and gradually increase it.

At the end of the procedure, the remaining oil is removed and a moisturizer is applied. It will be good if you lie down to rest. Therefore, it is best to carry out the procedure in the evening. If you are afraid of unpleasant sensations, steam your skin. This will make the body more obedient and elastic.

Contraindications

Any procedure has its contraindications. Lymphatic drainage massage has:

dermatosis;
acute infectious diseases;
malignant tumors;
pathologies of the lymphatic system;
kidney problems;
pregnancy;
thrombophlebitis.

If you have any chronic diseases, be sure to consult your doctor. If you don’t feel well or something hurts, also be careful with the massage (especially if you do cupping).

Cupping massage should be avoided if there is irritation on the skin. Bruises are not a contraindication. On the contrary, jars will help make them lighter. But, if the bruises hurt, it is better to wait until they at least turn pink.

Always rely on your feelings. A massage should have a positive effect on your well-being, and if you feel unwell after it, it is better to consult a doctor.

How do you know if your lymphatic system is not working well?

When there is a disruption in the functioning of the lymphatic system, edema is the first to form. But such edema should be distinguished from stagnation of fluid in the body, which happens to any person from time to time. Did you eat a lot of salty foods at night or went to an alcoholic party? Is the weather hot outside or have you been on the road for a long time? Then swelling is a normal reaction of the body. If this repeats regularly, and the fluid is retained in the body for a long time, then it’s time to sound the alarm - the lymph is not doing its job.

Most often, with stagnation of lymph, swelling is observed in the extremities. Moreover, only one arm or leg can swell. This indicates a unilateral accumulation of lymph. The face, chest, abdomen and, most dangerously, internal organs may also swell.

By the way, “orange peel” on your thighs is not only unsightly, but also shows that there is stagnant fluid in the body, which means the lymphatic system is not working well. Cellulite is swollen and overgrown connective tissue.

Right now, press your finger on the swollen area. If even after light pressure there is a dent on the skin that is slowly leveling out, then it’s time to urgently take care of your health. Start with normalizing your drinking regime and lymphatic drainage.

Indications and contraindications

Lymphatic drainage massage (manual or performed using cosmetic devices) is prescribed:

when skin elasticity decreases;
when cellulite appears;
with severe swelling of the legs;
for varicose veins and blood circulation problems;
with existing excess subcutaneous fat;
with metabolic disorders.

It is prohibited to artificially activate lymph flow for persons suffering from:

diabetes mellitus;
predisposition to cardiovascular diseases;
blood clotting disorder;
oncology;
a tendency towards increased growth of benign neoplasms;
thrombophlebitis;
renal and liver failure;
nervous and psychiatric disorders;
diseases of the lymph nodes;
frequent occurrence of migraine of unknown etymology;
infectious diseases.

Massage session is prohibited:

pregnant women;
nursing mothers;
girls during their periods.

After a hardware massage, bruises may appear on the skin, which is a consequence of excessive fragility of the blood vessels.

How is lymphatic drainage massage beneficial for you?

Nowadays, many people lead a sedentary lifestyle, eat poorly and sleep little. All this leads to disruption of the lymphatic system.

It is lymphatic drainage massage of the body that helps remove toxic substances, toxins and other waste products from the body.

Massage also activates metabolic processes, normalizes lymph circulation, slows down the aging process and strengthens the immune system. The skin becomes elastic, soft and smooth.

For the best effect, complement the massage with gymnastics and walks in the fresh air. This also helps disperse the lymph and you will begin to feel much better.

Techniques for performing lymphatic drainage body massage

Although there are several lymphatic drainage techniques, they all start the same way - with light stroking and pinching. It is very important to warm up the skin and prepare it for mechanical impact, so as not to accidentally damage it.

If you decide to start working with banks, then be prepared for bruises. It will hurt at first (and the stronger the stagnation, the more painful it is), but in the end you will definitely feel lightness. Bruising may also occur. For beginners they will be 100%. Prepare an ointment with traumeel or arnica to minimize damage.

You should start training with the buttocks and, after assessing the consequences and sensations, gradually move on to the hips. You can always cover bruises there. How to do a massage correctly, watch the video:

When you get used to it, you can move on to other parts of the body. For example, take care of stretch marks and sagging belly:

Carry out the massage with your hands along the same lines as the cupping massage. Make circular and patting movements, pinch the skin a little and rub tightly. Don’t worry if the skin turns red - this shows that blood has rushed to the treated area, which means you are moving in the right direction - the lymph is already waking up from hibernation and is preparing to get rid of everything that has accumulated in the body.

Lymphatic drainage massage after physical training

If you play sports, then lymphatic drainage massage will enhance the results. You will become more resilient, and there will be no severe pain after sports, since lactic acid will not linger in the muscles. The procedure will relieve tension, speed up metabolic processes and remove all toxins. In addition, lymphatic drainage will prepare the body for the next workout.

Almost all athletes, and even beginners, experience muscle tension. You may feel tension in your lower back, shoulders, shoulder blades and neck. Massage saves you from all this. Pay special attention to areas that hurt. This means there is a large stagnation of fluid that needs to be eliminated.

Lymphatic drainage even affects the psychological state. Relieves the nervous system, relaxes and allows you to rest. It turns out double relaxation - sports and massage. And you can do all this on your own, without outside help.

Lymphatic drainage massage: how to do it at home?

At home, you can do not only manual and cupping massage, but also dry massage. This procedure not only accelerates the blood, but also exfoliates dead particles of the dermis. Scrub and massage in one! Beauty 365 has good brushes.

This procedure must be done before showering, bathing or other contact with water. Make circular movements with the brush, gradually moving up from your feet to your décolleté. Pay attention to every part of the body (except for the popliteal area). The first few times it is better to stand in the bathroom, because the old skin will fly in different directions. If you have a dry skin type, then this will happen every time. But in the end, your whole body will be smooth and rosy, and cellulite and swelling will no longer torment you every morning.

What parts of the body does lymphatic drainage affect?

Stagnation phenomena can be observed in different areas. The problem mainly affects the legs, and a little less often the face. Therefore, lymphatic drainage is usually performed in these areas.

Face massage

A facial massage session will be effective in eliminating the following shortcomings:

postoperative scars;
loss of skin elasticity;
swelling;
acne;
a large number of wrinkles, facial creases.

This modern procedure is not uncommon in beauty salons, but you need to trust your face to an experienced specialist. Usually the first results are noticeable after the end of the session due to the removal of swelling and improvement of complexion. It is better to refrain from lymphatic drainage if there are inflammatory processes on the face or neurological diseases.

Body massage

Lymphatic drainage can be used to shape the figure or correct aesthetic skin imperfections. In particular, massage helps rid the skin of cellulite. In addition, by increasing the activity of the lymphatic system, swelling in the legs is relieved, and the silhouette becomes more toned. The most popular is foot massage, which is performed in combination or separately.

How to prepare for lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage does not require any special preparation. The only thing you can do is light scrubbing before the procedure and steam the skin (especially the first few times).

There are also a number of conditions that must be observed for the best effect:

Give up alcohol at least for the duration of the lymphatic drainage massage course. Alcoholic drinks retain fluid in the body, and you just want to get rid of it. Do not harm yourself, but rather help;
Watch your diet - more vegetables with a high fiber content and less food “garbage” (convenience foods, sweets, etc.);
Limit the amount of liquid you drink before bed, but throughout the day, drink as much water as your body requires. In this case, you won’t want to pour liters into yourself before resting.

It is better to do a massage in the evening (just wait a few hours after dinner). For best results, drink a glass of warm water before the procedure.

Preparation for the procedure

In order for the massage to be effective, it is advisable to adhere to the following recommendations:

on the eve of the procedure and during the entire course, do not drink alcohol or smoke;
do not drink a lot of liquid at night;
conduct a session three or more hours after eating;
Before the procedure, clean the skin and take a shower;
After the massage, immediately drink a glass of clean water.
Lie down for 15 minutes after the procedure.

It is advisable to increase the course of lymphatic drainage massage procedures to 10-12 sessions. After 6-12 procedures, results will appear: headaches will disappear, constant fatigue will disappear, the skin will become smoother, elasticity will appear, metabolic processes in tissues will improve.

Lymphatic drainage massage of face and neck

Lymphatic drainage massage of the face and neck will not only reduce swelling, but will also highlight cheekbones, remove sagging skin and wrinkles. This is a good way to prevent aging.

In the video you can see the safest and most enjoyable method of lymphatic drainage for the face:

But, of course, for a beautiful and healthy body, it is not enough to just massage. Proper nutrition, exercise and cleansing are very important. It is difficult to independently create the right program that will work. And in the end you may give up everything altogether. To prevent this, sign up for the “Flourish” marathon. There you will learn not only how to properly care for yourself, but also how to truly love.

Methods and rules for performing the procedure at home

Manual lymphatic drainage massage can be done independently on various parts of the human body.

Manual influence is allowed:

on the face;
on the neck;
on the back;
in the abdominal area;
on the arms and legs.

Neck and face massage

The procedure is carried out independently according to the rules of classical massage, accompanied by light stroking and patting movements. Before kneading, you should clean your face and neck with special foam and belongings.

Direction of finger movements:

The massage starts from the middle of the forehead. Using 3 fingers, the cream is driven in from the middle of the forehead to the temples.
Next, the bridge of the nose is warmed up. Using 3 fingers, the T-zone is sequentially worked, the area under the eyes to the temples.
3 times the nasolabial folds are warmed up. Movements with pressure along the entire length are recommended.
Stage 4 - chin massage. It is carried out in the direction from the middle to the edge of the jaw. The selection is kneaded to the base of the neck.
The neck is massaged with stroking movements, starting from the area located under the ears. During the massage, a gradual downward movement occurs.
The neck is warmed up in a circular motion along its entire length. The massage requires the use of the pads of 4 fingers (except the thumb).
Having gone down to the chest area, you need to return to the area located behind the ears, completing the warm-up with circular movements with 3 fingers of both hands.

Duration of massage is 30-40 minutes. After completing the procedure, the face is cleansed of gel using a contrast shower and nourished with moisturizer.

Lymphatic drainage massage of the face and neck helps:

improve blood circulation;
eliminate small wrinkles;
prevent sagging skin and disruption of facial contours.

Eye

Lymphatic drainage massage of the eyes should be performed at least once a week for all women after reaching 40 years of age, as well as when:

bruises and swelling under the eyes;
fine wrinkles;
decreased skin turgor;
sagging of the upper eyelid.

Before the massage, you need to remove makeup from the eye area with micellar water and apply any cream intended for eyelid skin care or heated olive oil.

Massage technique:

Press your index finger several times on the skin on the upper and lower eyelids.
Run 3 fingers along the fold of the upper eyelid (from the inner edge to the outer) and along the area under the eyes (to the inner edge).
Direct the swaying movements of the index finger from the line of the temple to the bridge of the nose (3 times).
Press the area of the nasolacrimal groove 7-10 times.

All movements are carried out simultaneously on 2 eyes. Duration of the procedure is 7-10 minutes. After the massage, the remaining cream is removed. The face is subjected to contrast washing (cold, then hot water).

Legs and buttocks

Foot massage helps improve lymph flow, eliminate swelling and spider veins. Before the procedure, you need to steam your body by taking a warm bath, and then sit or lie down for a few minutes, giving your lower limbs a little rest.

Massage technique:

Applying massage cream.
Kneading the skin with massaging movements from bottom to top (calves, shins, knees, hip joint).
The massage is performed with all fingers on each foot in turn.

Massaging the buttocks helps remove cellulite, stretch marks, and accumulated fat deposits. Warm-up is carried out with patting and chopping movements, which help remove excess fluid.

Technology:

Applying massage oil (anti-cellulite cream).
Warming up the skin with patting movements.
Working on the gluteal area with the edge of the hands.
End the massage with stroking.

After the procedure, you should take a contrast shower and lie down for 10-15 minutes.

Back and abdomen

A back massage is performed when general health deteriorates or headaches occur. You cannot do it yourself; you need a trained assistant. Massaging the back is most important, since the upper region of the body is home to the lymphatic drainage system, which is responsible for removing toxins.

Disruption of its work leads to stagnation of lymph and the accumulation of dangerous substances that interfere with a person’s full life.

Performing a massage:

Apply massage gel using stroking movements along the entire length of the back.
With your hands pressed to your body, draw a line along the spine and to the sides of it (at least 4 times).
Warm up the skin, directed from the lower back to the collarbones.
Massage the back of the neck with circular movements
Run along the entire length of the back with the edge of the palm.

The abdomen should be kneaded very carefully due to the risk of damaging the peritoneal organs. Weekly lymphatic drainage massage of the abdominal cavity helps eliminate fat deposits and tighten the skin. Warm-up is carried out only in circular movements in a clockwise direction.

The following are being consistently developed:

Bottom part;
periumbilical region;
left and right side of the abdomen.

After the massage you need a contrast shower.

Chest

Lymphatic drainage massage of the breast is especially useful for women to combat age-related changes and mastopathy. By rubbing and stroking, blood flow improves, the skin tightens, pathogenic microorganisms and excess (connective) tissue that provoke the occurrence of pathologies are eliminated.

It is impossible to perform a chest massage on your own, since the procedure requires complete relaxation of the body and placing your hands behind your head.

Kneading the chest is used for:

prevention of stretch marks;
improving skin tone;
stimulation of mammary gland growth;
relieving swelling.

The breasts are massaged with wide circular and stroking movements directed from the bottom up and further into the armpits.

Each mammary gland is processed separately:

At the beginning of the massage, movements are directed from the center to the armpits.
Then the area between the ribs is kneaded from bottom to top and further down in a circle.
Pressure is applied with closed fingers along the chest.

Hand

Hand massage is necessary for people who have undergone surgery on the mammary glands and sternum.

Technology:

The hand extends in front of itself.
First, warm up the area from the wrist to the elbow with patting circular movements at least 5 times. Manipulations are carried out on each hand separately.
Next, the elbow and axillary areas are developed in the same way.
At the end of the massage, the lymph flow is worked on the hands, moving from the fingertips to the wrist.

The cosmetic procedure lymphatic drainage massage helps rid the body of accumulated toxins, water and fat deposits by accelerating the movement of lymph. You can carry out the manipulation yourself by hand, carefully studying the location of the lymph nodes, lymphatic drainage ducts and the technology of the procedure.