In a recent podcast episode, I spoke with Rebecca Faria, celebrity lymphatic massage therapist, about everything to do with your lymphatic system. She gives the rundown on your lymphatic system and why it’s crucial for overall health; the difference between water weight and fat, plus lifestyle tips on maintaining a healthy system. She also breaks down lymphatic drainage massage; the benefits, why and when it works, and how to get the benefits at home. So, I’m spilling the tea and answering all your questions about lymphatic massage.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is part of your immune system that regulates fluid levels in the body by collecting excess fluid from tissue and depositing it back into the bloodstream. If you think of your body as a sink, the lymphatic system would be the pipes and the lymph nodes would be the drain. When the drain gets clogged, nothing can flow through properly and the sink gets clogged – i.e. you feel bloated, have indigestion, or retain water. Environmental things like pollution, stress, poor diet, lack of water intake, sleep and exercise all affect the way body reacts to inflammation.
What exactly is lymphatic drainage?
Lymphatic drainage is a massage technique that removes waste and toxins from the body. It essentially helps to flush the water from the sink to the drain – i.e. the lymph nodes. It gets rid of excess water weight from the body which makes you look leaner and more toned. Not only does it make you look and feel better, but it’s good for your immune system, digestive system, improves blood flow, and decreases inflammation.
Does lymphatic drainage really work?
I can personally attest to how lymphatic drainage helps with bloating and water weight, especially when it’s done by a trained professional like Rebecca. Her Brazilian technique is like nothing I’d ever experienced before and she’s a pioneer in bringing the Brazilian technique to the US. Her clientele includes A-list celebrities like the Kardashians, Jennifer Aniston, Hailey Bieber, Ariana Grande, Lily Collins, Addison Rae, Sophia Richie and so many more. She also has over a thousand people on her waitlist which goes to show how her lymphatic drainage technique truly works. Rebecca’s technique also takes lifestyle factors into consideration like diet and exercise, emotional health and sleep which all contribute to the lymphatic system.
What lifestyle factors affect the lymphatic system?
Sleep is the number one thing that can affect the lymphatic system. Getting enough sleep is the best way to regulate hormones which control fat storage. Rebecca recommends going to bed early and waking up by 8am so you get the right amount of cortisol and dopamine. You should also avoid eating processed foods because it’s harder for your body to process toxins, causing buildup. Exercise is another thing you can do flush your lymphatic system. The more you move your body, the more blood flow and lymphatic flow you’ll have. That’s why walking is so great because you’re able to do it longer than high intensity workouts. Lastly, it’s important to drink enough water so your body is able to flush out toxins and waste.
Does lymphatic massage help with cellulite?
Yes, because cellulite is inflammation which causes fat to get stuck in certain areas. So, how do you get rid of cellulite? Moving your body will improve blood flow which helps with cellulite. That’s why exercise is so great for reducing cellulite. Lymphatic drainage works the same way by improving blood flow and moving the lymphatic system which releases inflammation.
You can listen to the full podcast episode with Rebecca here for more deets on lymphatic drainage.
