Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Know the Benefits
Lymphatic drainage massage is a technique with many benefits, making it a valuable technique for any massage therapist’s skillset.
HICI Go offers massage courses online and in-person for those who need continuing education requirements or are simply interested in learning about different therapeutic techniques. Serving learners in Miami, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Orlando, and throughout the United States, HICI Go makes it easy for professionals in the wellness and beauty space to stay up to date on the latest services and industry trends.
Learn about lymphatic drainage massage, how it works, and what benefits it offers.
What Is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
The lymphatic system is the body’s network of organs, vessels, and tissues that move lymph through the circulatory system. Lymph, or lymphatic fluid, is a colorless liquid that transports white blood cells. Lymphatic vessels collect the excess lymph that drains from tissues and return it to the bloodstream so it can be recirculated throughout the body.
A healthy lymphatic system helps protect your body from viruses and bacteria, removes waste products from the body, and regulates fluid levels. When this system isn’t functioning properly, fluid can build up in the arms and legs, a condition called lymphedema, which can be painful.
Lymphatic drainage massage was developed to aid the flow of lymph throughout the body. Using light pressure, a massage therapist will massage the lymph nodes and use long strokes to push the lymphatic fluid up toward the collarbone, where the lymphatic ducts are located. They may use massage techniques on lymph nodes located near the:
- Neck
- Chest
- Armpits
- Abdomen
- Groin
Unlike a deep tissue or Swedish massage, the therapist does not focus on muscle tension. Instead, the practitioner uses soft, light massaging strokes to encourage the body’s natural drainage processes.
A typical lymphatic drainage massage takes about 30 minutes to an hour. For best results, the client should drink water before and after the session to help flush toxins from the tissues. They should also avoid alcohol and foods high in sugar and salt before and after the massage, which can exacerbate fluid retention throughout the body.
As toxins are flushed from the tissues, some clients may report a slight headache or feelings of fatigue after a lymphatic drainage massage. Most, however, will feel more relaxed and alert.
Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Lymphatic drainage massage offers several advantages for well-being. This type of massage can:
- Improve circulation
- Reduce inflammation, bloating, and water retention
- Help minimize the appearance of cellulite
- Boost the immune system
- Offer relaxation and stress relief
Because a lymphatic massage can eliminate excess liquid that’s been built up in the tissues, many clients enjoy the visual slimming and contouring effect this massage offers, as well.
Pursue Massage Continuing Education with HICI Go
Whether you’re a licensed practitioner, a massage therapy student, or just someone who wants to learn more about different healing modalities, you can sign up for a course with HICI Go. We are a dedicated provider of massage continuing education courses, with an extensive catalog of options. Students can opt for live, in-person courses available in Florida, Connecticut, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Texas through our partner institutions. For those located elsewhere in the United States, we have live webinars and prerecorded video courses on massage techniques, skincare, hair, makeup, and business topics.
HICI Go works in partnership with Cortiva Institute and Hollywood Institute, so any student who enrolls at either institution will automatically receive an account to access online courses. To learn more about how you can expand your massage therapy practice with lymphatic drainage massage and other innovative services, contact us today.