with the upcoming colder months we want to do our best to keep our immune system functioning as best as possible.
one of the most important parts of our immune system is our lymphatic system. unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system doesn't have a pump like the heart to move lymph around. so our body relies on us to get our lymph moving.
lymph is the fluid that contains hormones and other chemicals from the various glands to the rest of your body. lymph is also rich in white blood cells, which as you well know, is vital for your immune system and helps remove toxins from the tissues in your body.
here are a few simple things you can do to help get your lymph moving:
- dry brushing before showering (i've wrote about this here)
- see a massage therapist
- do a simple self massage daily or every other day - this doesn't have to be anything major - just rubbing on your lotion helps move lymph around
- exercise - get moving
- yoga - twists and inversions are great for moving lymph
image credit ici
7 comments:
I currently have a summer cold so this post came at a good time for me. Used to do skin brushing but then time got crazy when the babies arrived... think I will restart that practice. Thanks x
Hurray for yoga and massage. Cannot wait to get started on my massage training!
Thank you for your encouraging words :)
Well, this was informative. I've heard of lymph glands but never understood the purpose of lymph. Hmmm, time for a massage -- self or otherwise!
I need to schedule a massage- and body brushing is divine. Thank you for the reminder. xoxo
I've been wanting to do the dry brushing for ages now- I am just a little unsure about the kind of brush- This is the brush I was looking at : http://www.amazon.com/Tampico-Vegetable-Fiber-Skin-Brush/dp/B000WOZZMC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1283295613&sr=8-3
Is that the kind of brush that would work- it seems to have natural bristles but they are firm not soft..
Thanks!
I believe our culture ignores our lymphatic system far too much. Sadly, I probably do as well. It is great that you provider a reminder to us.
If you haven't read it, Energy Medicine by Donna Eden, speaks about the lymphatic system. http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=1585426504
globetrotting cacti - boo! sorry you have a summer cold (those seem to be the worst!). hope you get better soon.
rachel - i have a feeling that you will make an excellent massage therapist. feel free to shoot me an email with ANY questions :)
debra - yes, massage, massage, massage :) hopefully you can get someone to do it for you, although, a self massage is better than no massage. :)
carolyn - my number is... ;) yes, try to schedule at least once a month if possible.
lavanya - that is perfect! if the bristles are more firm just use a softer pressure - you'll know what's right for you. :)
the analyst - thanks for the book recommendation, definitely going to add that to the wish list. you are so right, our culture does ignore the lymphatic system until it's too late.
hugs to all of you beautiful ladies!!
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