So what do you know about the lymphatic system? And with this question are you thinking "Anne, why should I care?" I am here to tell you that with the smallest bit of attention you could greatly increase your well-being.
The lymphatic system is a bit like the blood circulatory system in that it is made up of a network of vessels, only in this case the liquid they are pushing around is lymph. Did you know you have twice as much lymph as you do blood?!?! What is it all for? Here are some of the really important roles that lymph plays:
- It is a large part of our immune system
- It helps maintain fluid balance in our bodies
- It is essential for absorption of fats and fat soluble nutrients
- It helps filter out bacteria
- It houses certain types of white blood cells
- It carries cellular sewage away from our tissues
But sometimes our lymphatic systems can become sluggish and in need of assistance. Symptoms can include chronic fatigue, constant skin conditions, digestive disorders, headaches, sinus infections, and weight gain, just to name a few. There are a dozen ways you can work on keeping your lymph flowing smoothly. Here are my top three:
DRINK WATER - yes, seriously. Drink water, and lots of it. Like it's your JOB! Your lymphatic fluid is mostly water and the system cannot function if you are dehydrated. DRINK! And while you're add it, add some lemon to your water - it's incredibly stimulating in the body.
JUMP / HOP / SKIP - Curiously, the lymphatic system has no pump to move the liquid around. There is no equivalent of the heart pushing it through the vessels. The body relies on contractions from the muscles and the diaphragm to move the lymph around. One of the best ways to help it out? Rebounding! If you've got a mini trampoline just bounce around for 10 minutes a day. Failing that hop, jump, bounce up the stairs, play hopscotch, jog, or skip down the sidewalk.
DRY BODY BRUSHING - This is a sure-fire way to stimulate the lymphatic system. With a natural bristle body brush practice a couple of minutes of dry body brushing before getting in the shower three times a week. Start at the feet and use long sweeping strokes up the legs, always in the direction of the heart. Do the arms as well, and then use circular motions on the belly. This is excellent for the treatment of cellulite as well. I really love the body brush from Mio http://www.mioskincare.co.uk/mio-skincare-the-mio-body-brush/11098418.html
Wishing you all good health.
