How to apply lymphatic drainage massage at home

The lymphatic drainage massage is an excellent option to include in your weekly routine for care and health. If you have recently experienced issues related to inflammation, infections, fluid retention, and even lack of energy, it can be a great ally to naturally eliminate what your body doesn't need and recharge your batteries. 

What are lymph nodes?

They are the fundamental nodes of the lymphatic system, which, alongside the circulatory system, fulfill a very important function of eliminating toxins and regulating the immune system in the body. We can think of them as the cleaning system that keeps the tissues and blood free of waste that hinders metabolic functions.

Lymph is precisely the liquid that is responsible for mobilizing these wastes to the excretory system, which is why it is essential that circulation and the lymph nodes - responsible for draining and cleaning the lymph - remain in good working order.

What is lymphatic massage used for?

Lymphatic drainage is a recommended technique as an aid in the treatment of various ailments such as:

• Cellulite (as it combats the adipose fluid retention)

• Edema, fluid retention, lymphedema, and varicose veins

• Fibromyalgia and pain 

• Chronic infections (avoiding direct stimulation of the infected area)

• Constipation

• Post-operative inflammation

• Arthritis

• Healing problems

• Acne

• Stress, anxiety, and insomnia

• Hypertension

Moreover, it promotes relaxation, elimination of toxins, strengthening of the immune system, and muscle recovery in high-performance athletes. As an aesthetic treatment, it is often recommended for patients who wish to improve their figure and the appearance of their skin.

Lymphatic drainage technique at home

This type of massage can be performed by a professional or using specialized devices, but it is also possible to apply it manually by following simple instructions to do it correctly and without risk to health. 

Lymphatic drainage at home stimulates the lymphatic system superficially by applying pressure to strategic points on the body. The lymph nodes that we can access more easily are located in the neck, armpits, groin, abdomen, and along the main blood vessels. It is important to clarify that intense or deep stimulation is neither necessary nor advisable; the results should be obtained slowly, precisely, and gently.

Do it yourself - step-by-step lymphatic drainage massage 

1.- The most important thing to consider when applying lymphatic massage at home is that you must always do it with gentle, repetitive movements in the correct direction, that is, the natural direction of the lymphatic vessels towards the nodes and evacuation areas. 

2.- Unlike conventional massage, the use of oils or lubricants is not recommended, as they can reduce control over the pressure we exert on the lymph nodes. 

3.- Lymphatic massage is usually performed mainly on the arms, legs, and abdomen, but it can also be applied to the face. A session of fifteen to twenty minutes is usually sufficient to adequately stimulate all these areas.

4.- Each area should be handled with a different direction, performing alternating movements of fifteen presses in two or three repetitions. For example, if we are going to manipulate the legs, we make fifteen upward presses on one, move to the other leg, and change until finishing that area before moving to the next. 

• Lymphatic massage on the arms: It is performed from the fingertips to the elbows, and from there to the armpits. 

• Lymphatic massage on the legs: The movement should first be performed from the soles of the feet to the back of the knees, and then from the knees to the groin. 

• Lymphatic massage on the abdomen: It starts from the center of the collarbone and solar plexus, with descending diagonal movements toward the sides of the abdomen and the kidneys.

• Lymphatic massage on the face: The movements should be made from the central area of the face and the bags under the eyes, out to the sides and the area behind the ears. 

5.- When reaching the areas of the neck, armpits, groin, and the back of the knees, we must perform an additional series of circular presses at three distinct points, in the direction of the clock hands.

Homemade lymphatic massage machines 

Lymphatic massage via devices is commonly known as “pressotherapy,” and some of these tools are designed for home use. They can be good aids when suffering from any of the aforementioned ailments, but they also represent a considerable investment. Under normal circumstances, the manual technique is usually sufficient for the drainage to yield excellent results.

Contraindications of lymphatic massage 

Lymphatic drainage, despite its many benefits, has some very clear contraindications, in which case it should never be applied as it could worsen certain conditions such as:

• Cancer (accelerating the process of metastasis)

• Acute infections

• Hyperthyroidism

• Chronic low blood pressure (as it could cause hypovolemia)

• Heart problems and thrombophlebitis

To rule out that any of these conditions exist and determine that lymphatic massage is a safe option, you should always have your routine medical check-ups.

At Zen To Go, we want to see you healthy. That’s why we share tips and wellness techniques with you that will help you achieve a better quality of life. Don’t forget to share them with your loved ones!

If you prefer to be attended by a certified professional  in lymphatic drainage massage, you will soon be able to book your home session at your chosen time, super easily with our App. A minimum session of 90 minutes is required for a lymphatic drainage massage to be effective.