Welcome to Where Science Meets Self -Care with
Ida Fanelli. With over 30 years in beauty and
wellness and a background in medical science,
Ida blends clinical knowledge with holistic care.
Each week, she and her guests share insights
to help you achieve healthier skin, balanced
energy, and empowered self -care. Now, here's
your host, Ida Finelli. Today's episode is titled
Lymphatic Health, Clear Fluid Intentions. Most
people have never heard of the lymphatic system,
let alone understand its importance to overall
health. Medical professions don't mention the
term until the discussion turns to health concerns.
The lymphatic system is critical in immunity,
detoxification, and emotional regulation. I will
describe the lymphatic system for those unfamiliar
with how it functions and what happens when it
doesn't work correctly. We'll explore facial
massage and how it can benefit breast and facial
health and explore practical, holistic ways to
optimize lymphatic flow, viridian skin, resilient
health, and emotional well -being. First, I'll
describe the organs and structure of the lymphatic
system. The thymus is in your upper chest, beneath
your breastbone. It's most active before puberty
and produces T lymphocytes, a type of white blood
cell that helps protect against recent infections.
The bone marrow, which is in the center of the
bones, makes red blood cells, platelets, and
B lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that
have memory of an infection. Vaccines produce
these types of cells. The spleen, a large crescent
-shaped organ on the left side of the abdomen,
regulates red blood cells and platelet levels
by filtering out old or dysfunctional cells.
It also helps fight certain infections. The appendix,
a small pouch near the connection of the small
and large intestine, contains dense lymphatic
tissue. It contains follicles that form B and
T cells in different regions. It plays a more
active role in the immune system during the early
years of life and may help episodes of diarrhea.
Mucosa -associated lymphoid tissue, otherwise
known as MALT, is a mucous membrane that lines
areas such as the tonsils, Airways, small intestines,
and appendix. Malt acts as a scavenger, destroying
harmful germs. Tonsils. Trap inhaled and consumed
germs as they passed the back of the throat.
People who have their tonsils removed have more
trouble with respiratory infections. Children
have more protection of the nasal cavity than
adults do. The adenoids Trap inhaled and consumed
germs as they pass the back of their throat.
The lymph nodes regulate and filter lymph as
it passes through areas in the armpits, collarbones,
belly button, groin, behind the knees, under
the ear, and behind the jaw. Damaged, blocked,
or surgically removed parts of the lymphatic
system can cause fluid retention, swelling, pain,
and an increase of infection. The function of
the lymphatic system. Lymph is a clear fluid
that transports unwanted toxic debris, cancer
cells, excess liquid, and destroys microorganisms
as they pass through the lymph nodes in the body's
tissues, which filter them and return them to
the bloodstream. Lymphatic drainage techniques
enhance this process. It produces and releases
lymphocytes. a type of white blood cell and other
immune cells to destroy bacteria, viruses, parasites,
and fungi that may enter your body. In a healthy
body, the lymphatic system begins with lacteals
in the small intestine's villi, which absorb
dietary fats. These lacteals eventually merge
to form larger lymphatic vessels, which contain
one -way valves that keep lymph flowing. They
drain into lymph tissues that fold and attaches
the intestines to the abdominal wall. Then the
lymphatic fluid drains into the thoracic duct,
which picks up more fluid from nearby organs
in the center of the chest. The upper chest,
right lymphatic and thoracic ducts collect and
drain lymph into the left subclavian vein, where
it drains into the heart. where the blood mixes
with it and the liver and kidneys filter it out.
The body then passes them out via bowel or bladder
movements. The lymphatic system relies on skeletal
muscle action, breathing, and smooth muscle contraction
in the vessel walls for movement. Since it lacks
a pump for its approximately 900 lymph nodes,
it piggybacks on the blood vessels, and external
manipulation techniques such as gravity, exercise,
massage, acupressure, fascia release, and acupuncture
help it function correctly. Effects of sun and
aging on the lymphatic system. As we age, our
lymphatic system naturally weakens, and with
it, our defenses against infections, autoimmune
conditions, and even cancer can increase. Our
body also tends to produce fewer antibodies in
response to vaccines. The number of functional
lymph nodes declines over time, reducing the
system's overall efficiency. Environmental factors
like sun damage from UV radiation can further
impair lymphatic health. UV exposure can decrease
the number and function of lymphatic vessels
and even cause them to dilate, leading to redness,
swelling, and increased fluid leakiness. I am
living proof that taking care of your lymph nodes
early and consistently can help preserve their
function as you mature. Gentle lymphatic support.
Mindful sun protection, movement, and self -care
practices can all help maintain a resilient lymphatic
system well into later years. Lymphatic drainage
benefits the face and neck. The neck contains
200 lymph nodes. The face and neck massage starts
on the neck and shoulders and moves up to the
face. It helps promote glowing healthy skin by
reducing swelling and increasing lymphatic drainage
in the armpit lymph nodes. The face massage helps
reduce muscle pain, stiffness, stress, anxiety,
tension, and headache. Stimulating lymphatic
drainage prioritizes the removal of excess fluid,
foreign microorganisms, and toxins from the skin.
it helps treat many skin conditions such as acne
rosacea dull skin and puffiness indicating stagnant
lymph flow our lymph nodes are the body's detoxification
plant it will speed up the healing of visible
and upcoming acne concerns my gentle lymphatic
massage offers a range of benefits leaving you
feeling rejuvenated and fresh It encourages fluid
movement, depuffs the skin, improves circulation,
and reduces toxin buildup. The post -facial glow
often comes from lymphatic drainage, not just
topical creams and serums. It's a holistic approach
that benefits your skin, reduces stress, and
helps shift the body into rest and repair mode.
Lymphatic Drainage benefits for sinus infections,
colds, and allergies. As a holistic esthetician
and reflexologist, I explore natural ways to
address health issues. Respiratory infections
are on the rise during the winter months. Lymphatic
massage can be helpful when medication isn't
readily available or when used to complement
your treatment choice to help relieve sinus infections,
colds, and allergies. Facial massage techniques
target congestion in the face, neck, and decollete.
It effectively reduces swollen lymph glands,
which often occur due to bacterial or viral infections.
It's essential to mention that swollen lymph
nodes are rarely indicated of cancer. As long
as the internet is accessible, you can use these
methods and over time, if you do it regularly,
it will come naturally to you. I can't demonstrate
Zangara's facial massage because it's copyrighted.
I'll demonstrate a few gentle lymphatic massage
techniques that stretch your skin to work with
the lymphatic flow through the lymph vessels,
such as light pressure, tapping, stroking, rubbing,
and pushing later. Repetition is critical to
achieving results, and it's something that you
can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
I've seen firsthand how consistent lymphatic
massage stimulates the duration and severity
of colds. I perform a light facial lymphatic
massage every morning, and over the past few
winters, I've avoided many seasonal bugs or reduced
their effect on me. My clients with allergies
also report a dramatic reduction in sinus congestion
and skin inflammation. The fascia -lymph connection.
The lymphatic vessels flow through the our fascia,
the uppermost layer of connective tissue that
unites our bones, muscles, organs and skin. Tight,
restrictive clothing, poor posture, injury, surgical
scarring, inflammation, medical biopsy or surgical
lymph node removal, such as with cancer, blocks
the system. Restrictive fascia with adhesions
and knots has a tensile strength of up to 2 ,000
pounds per square inch. This restriction slows
lymphatic drainage, leaving harmful cells and
oxidative waste products in the body for longer
and restricting energy flow. Life -saving lymph
node removal blocks lymphatic vessels and promotes
chronic swelling. Inflating joints can become
swollen or puffy as stagnant blood flow and pinched
nerves contribute to pain and instability. It
makes sense that when our brain cannot process
what is happening, it stores it away in the fascia.
Our brain and sympathetic nervous system can't
process what's happening when trauma affects
the production of feel -good transmitters like
endorphins and stress hormones like cortisol.
Our fascia has memory. Yoga practitioners experience
calm at the end of their unique poses. Massage
and reflexology also release tension in the fascia,
restoring both energetic and lymphatic flow.
An unrestricted, healthy, hydrated fascia supports
lymph towards the left subclavian vein for removal.
Severe complications of poor lymphatic flow,
lymphedema, A condition marked by chronic swelling
can occur after lymph node removal, obstruction,
or damage. Chronic lymphedema. If the disease
or cellulitis isn't recognized, infection and
potential sepsis can develop over time, requiring
amputation. Severe swelling can result from trauma
or injury. The lymph fluid can drain through
small breaks in the skin or cause blistering.
Skin changes in some people with severe lymphedema.
The skin of the affected limb can thicken and
harden, resembling an elephant's skin. In studies,
mice exposed to UVB radiation showed leukocyte,
a type of white blood cell penetration of the
skin, which can lead to thickening of the top
layer of the skin. Products or devices that can
help improve lymphatic flow. Drink lots of water
with salt to help with lymphatic drainage. Drinking
warm water with a bit of lemon to hydrate and
support kidney damage is also helpful. Castor
oil is a natural lymphatic stimulant when applied
topically. Regular application can help with
stagnating lymphatic circulation without the
need for massage. Its mechanism of action. Castor
oil penetrates the skin and promotes the flow
of lymphatic fluid. This helps detoxify tissues
and reduces inflammation. Apply castor oil packs
on the abdomen or lymph node clusters. You can
use heat to speed up its effects and a protective
plaster wrap to prevent spillage or leakage onto
clothing or sleepwear. oak root is also a lymphatic
stimulant that enhances the effects of castor
oil this is dry oak root to make a mix mix one
part of the root with two parts of oil shake
it daily for three to four weeks then strain
and use or warm in an oven on low heat for six
to eight hours cool strain and use cleavers It's
a gently yet time -honored botanical ally. It's
often called the lymphatic tonic because it supports
lymph flow. It reduces fluid retention and gently
aids the kidney urinary tract. Cleavers can be
a valuable part of a holistic lymphatic care
protocol, especially when paired with movement,
breath work. fascia release, and manual drainage.
Typical uses, a brood infusion of one to three
times daily or a tincture cycle during a two
to four week lymphatic reset. As always, guide
your clients to connect with their healthcare
practitioner if they have underlying conditions
and position herbs as a supporting layer rather
than the sole strategy. Other techniques available
to perform lymphatic drainage. Gua Sha or crystal
rollers. Allow you to scrape or move the lymph
gently. Use a sculpted crystal stone made of
amethyst, jade or rose quartz along your neck,
face and decollete. Gua Sha or crystal rollers.
have the added benefit of allowing the skin to
absorb nutrients and spiritual benefits. Research
how to use it correctly. Metal Grastons are either
stainless steel or copper. Here is an example
of a copper Graston that you can use to break
down scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions.
It promotes healing by increasing blood flow
to the treatment site. We'll discuss more products
and services that can help with lymphatic flow
after a commercial break. Welcome back. Dry brushing
with soft brushes stimulates the skin, opens
lymph channels, gently exfoliates, detoxifies,
increases circulation, improves digestion, and
reduces cellulite. Don't dry brush over moles,
warts, raised bumps, infections, redness, general
irritation, inflammation, cellulitis, or skin
cancer. Try dry brushing before you shower. Nymphedema
pumps are available for more significant body
parts and electronic pneumatic pump controls
a mechanical sleeve around select body parts.
This electronic device pulsates, helping the
lymph drain from swollen tissues into your lymph
nodes. Prices vary on its quality. I'll place
some examples of it in the description section
below. Certified professionals are at the Lymphology
Association of North America or the National
Lymphedema Network. Look for a lymphedema physiotherapist
or massage therapist who specializes in lymphatic
drainage. I perform lymphatic drainage massage
for the face, neck, and decollete in my facials.
Practical tips for using temperature wisely after
surgery or injury. Cold to reduce immediate swelling,
followed by gentle warmth to encourage lymphatic
flow once inflammation stabilizes. Chronic lymphedema
or sluggish lymph flow. Warm compresses, contrast
baths, or mouth saunas may help promote circulation
and reduce heaviness. Combine temperature therapy
with movement, deep breathing, and lymphatic
massage for maximum benefit. Temperature is a
subtle yet powerful tool in supporting lymphatic
health. By understanding when to apply cold and
when to embrace warmth, you can help your lymphatic
system work efficiently, reduce swelling, and
support overall vitality. When surgery becomes
a healing option, the pioneering work of Dr.
Joseph Diane. For most people, Gentle manual
lymphatic drainage, movement, hydration, and
self -care can make a big difference in managing
lymphatic flow. But in more serious or advanced
cases of lymphedema, surgery can offer new hope
and even restore function where traditional therapies
have reached their limit. One of the leading
voices in this field is Dr. Joseph Diane. an
internationally recognized board -certified plastic
and reconstructive surgeon who has devoted his
career to microsurgical cancer reconstruction
and lymphatic surgery. He's the founder and director
of the Institute for Lymphatic Surgery and Innovation
at the Institute for Advanced Reconstruction,
a center dedicated to restoring the lymphatic
system's natural flow and improving quality of
life for patients worldwide. Dr. Diane's work
blends artistry, science, and compassion. He
has pioneered several groundbreaking procedures
that are reshaping how we think about lymphatic
health and recovery. Vascular lymph node transfer,
VLNT, this advanced microsurgical procedure transplant
healthy lymph nodes from one area of the body
to the affected area, helping reestablish normal
drainage, Dr. Diane developed a unique reverse
lymphatic mapping technique, a safety -first
approach that identifies and protects donor nodes
to preventing lymphedema in the area from which
they're taken. Lymphatic covenus and not stillness.
LBA or lymphovenous bypass. This is a superhighway
detour for your lymphatic fluid using supramicrosurgery.
Dr. Diane connects tiny lymph vessels directly
to small veins rerouting fluid around damaged
pathways and easing the swelling and discomfort
caused by lymphedema. Lymphedema mass excision
and liposuction. In advanced stages of lymphedema,
when tissues become fibrotic or fatty, specialized
surgical techniques can help reduce bulk, restore
contour, and relieve heaviness and stiffness.
Immediate lymphatic reconstruction. This forward
-thinking approach takes place during cancer
surgery, particularly when they remove suspective
lymph nodes. By rebuilding lymphatic connections
right away, lymphedema can be significantly reduced
later on beyond his surgical expertise. Dr. Diane
is a dedicated advocate for lymphedema awareness
and patient education. He serves on the board
of the Lymphatic Education and Research Network
and was the founding president of the American
Society for Lymphatic Surgery. his research publications
and textbook on the multimodal management of
lymphedema have guided professionals worldwide
After spending a decade at Memorial Sloan Kettering
Cancer Center in New York, Dr. Diane now practices
in New Jersey, where his institute continues
to set new standards in lymphatic surgery and
patient -centered care. His message is one of
empowerment and possibility that even in advanced
stages, there are ways to rebuild lymphatic flow,
restore balance, and reclaim quality of life.
Temperature, both cold and heat, can play a surprisingly
significant role in this process. Cold exposure
and lymph flow. Cold naturally reconstructs blood
and lymphatic vessels when vessels tighten. Lymphatic
flow slows and flow of lymph can become sluggish,
temporarily reducing the removal of metabolic
waste and excess fluid. Inflammation may decrease.
cold can cause swelling and discomfort, which
is why ice packs are often recommended for acute
injuries or after surgery. Caution for chronic
conditions. For people with lymphedema or compromised
lymphatic flow, prolonged cold exposure may slow
drainage too much and worsen swelling. In short,
Cold can be helpful in reducing inflammation
or acute swelling, but it's not ideal if the
goal is to stimulate long -term lymphatic drainage.
Heat and lymphatic flow. Heat, on the other hand,
encourages vessels to dilate, which can increase
lymphatic circulation. Warmth helps expand lymph
vessels, allowing lymph to flow more freely and
efficiently. Relaxed tissue and fascia. Heat
loosens muscles and connective tissues, reducing
restrictions that might impede lymph movement.
Support detoxification, saunas, warm baths, and
gentle heat therapies can enhance the body's
natural drainage processes. However, too much
heat can sometimes aggravate acute inflammation
or swelling, so moderation and timing are essential.
How to activate your lymphatic system daily.
The triad of lymphatic flow. Breathe, move, drain.
Warm baths with epsom salts, which is magnesium
sulfate or magnesium salt, to soothe fascia and
support drainage. Face and neck massage using
a jade roller, gua sha, or fingers to release
tension. Movement breaks, stretching, bouncing,
brisk walking, or even yoga twists. deep belly
breathing using your diaphragm to inhale and
exhale helps pump the largest lymph vessels in
the thoracic duct case history and personal story
i had a client with lymphedema in her right lower
leg her husband learned the lymphatic drainage
massage and performed it on her daily it reduced
all the swelling by providing continuous stimulation
I've seen significant benefits for clients who
have received my head and shoulder massage. I've
also witnessed inflammation decrease while I
was using castor oil regularly. I have a picture
of the human body to the side of me which depicts
the various lymphatic vessels, nodes, and organs
for your pleasure to learn from. Now I'll demonstrate
a simple full -body lymphatic massage sequence
you can do daily to support your lymph flow and
overall vitality. This is excellent to do in
the morning. I often do it in the shower with
a bit of soap for smooth gliding. We'll begin
at the collarbone area, one of the main drainage
points of the lymphatic system. Start below the
collarbone, gently pressing or tapping 12 times.
After tapping, glide the fluid outward. Then
move above the collarbone and repeat tapping
12 times. After tapping glide the fluid outward.
Next stimulate the area under the ears. Again
12 times tapping on each side with both hands.
Continue by circling under each arm about 12
times. This helps activate the cluster of lymph
nodes found in this key area. Now gently stretch
and tap along the center of your chest from the
navel up to just below the breast area. This
awakens circulation and helps guide lymph upward
to be cleaned through the thoracic cavity. Move
down to the belly button area. Tap lightly on
each side 12 times. You can also slide your hands
up and down along the outer edge of your belly
button 12 times. After that, circle around the
navel 12 times. Make sure to direct it towards
the left side of your body. This direction supports
healthy digestion and can help relieve constipation.
you can also gently stroke or tap along the groin
area where another major collection of lymph
nodes is located right where the inner thighs
meet the pelvis next bend slightly and tap behind
your knees twelve times the lymphatic flow is
strong here so this helps release any stagnation
and can help keep the knees limber and prevent
arthritis in this area. Now, shake your whole
body for about 50 seconds. Let everything loosen
up. Shake your hands up in the air and your legs
as well. This simple movement wakes up your lymphatic
system. Even gentle rebounding on a mini trampoline
can be wonderful for lymph flow. It's one of
the best ways to get everything circulating.
And don't forget dancing works beautifully too.
Anything rhythmic and joyful keeps the lymph
moving. Now we'll focus on the breast area and
demonstrate the breast lymphatic massage. The
breast contains many lymph nodes. Begin under
the collarbone pressing or tapping 12 times and
guiding the lymph outward. Then move above the
collarbone 12 times again, guiding the fluid
outward. Use your hands to gently move lymph
from one side of the decollete to the other,
repeating in both directions with opposite hands.
Then circle in and out of the armpits with each
hand about 12 times to encourage drainage. With
each hand as well, trace a figure eight pattern
around each breast about 60 times. This not only
stimulates limb flow, which helps keep the breast
firm and healthy, but also gives your arms a
gentle workout. Finally, support each breast
from underneath and gently shake them up and
down to encourage healthy circulation. Now we'll
focus on the head and neck lymphatic massage.
Start by tapping below and above collarbone 12
times and remember to guide the lymph outward.
Place both palms with wrists facing inward on
the center front of your neck and glide outward
along the sides. Do this about 60 times. This
supports blood and lymph flow to the thyroid
gland, the body's master regulator for metabolism
and hormones. Next, stroke up the neck about
12 times under the right ear, then 12 times under
the left ear. Finally, stroke upward under the
center of the chin 12 times. This stimulates
the lymph nodes located under the ears, jawline,
and chin. Make small circles or short upward
strokes along the outer edge of the jawline from
the center of the chin outward. Do this on each
side. Then go under the chin and guide the lymph
outward with your fingers 12 times. Press gently
under the cheekbones with all your fingers for
about 12 seconds. Then press lightly under the
eyes to reduce puffiness and encourage drainage
with the same four fingers of each hand. Now
move to the sides of the face, slightly stretching
under and over the ears and along the hairline
to release congestion. Press gently with your
fingertips around the entire hairline, front
and back of the head. These areas are rich in
acupuncture points and energy meridians. Finally,
stimulate your scalp by massaging it with your
fingertips. Research has shown that lymphatic
vessels exist in the scalp and this stimulation
can promote healthy circulation, even supporting
hair growth. To finish, apply a bit of slip to
your hands, oil, lotion, or soap, if you're in
the shower, and sweep from the center of your
face outward and downward. Start at the forehead
and move down towards the jaw. repeating 12 times.
This helps direct the lymph towards the drainage
points at the collarbone. You can also tap the
bottom and top of each collarbone to encourage
the final flow of lymph out from the face and
head. Remember to gently guide it outward with
your hands after this. Optional tools and tips.
You can incorporate tools like jade rollers or
gua sha stones for an added boost. Each crystal
carries unique mineral energies that can subtly
nourish your skin and energetic field. This is
a gua sha roller. It's a sculpted crystal stone.
You could find them in different forms, amethyst,
jade, rose quartz, even obsidian. They have all
different types. What you do is you stretch it
along. from the inside of your face to the out
to encourage lymphatic flow. This area you can
use along the jawline. You can use a smaller
one around the eye. The larger one you use along
the larger areas of course. And the smaller ones
you use The smaller edges of it you use for the
smaller areas. This is a copper grass dawn. It's
useful for releasing scars and breaking down
adhesions and fascial restrictions. They have
it in stainless steel, but I prefer the copper
one because copper enhances the circulation even
more than the stainless steel one does. They
both increase healing by increasing blood flow
to the treatment area. This is a crystal roller.
It has two sides to it. It has the smooth side
and the prickly side. You can use both sides
the same way as you did with the gua sha. You
just move them in and out. And the prickly side
just gives it a little bit more by stimulating
the lymphatic tissue. I recommend doing this
whole sequence every morning to keep your lymphatic
system flowing freely, counteracting the effects
of tight clothing, sitting, and stagnant movement.
And speaking of clothing, it can actually help
stimulate lymphatic flow too. Notice I'm wearing
compression pants. These are designed to increase
circulation and support muscle and tissue recovery
after exercise. The ones I'm wearing have no
seam along the outer thigh, which helps avoid
irritation along the IT band, an area that's
often tight and sensitive. That's it. I hope
you enjoyed this demonstration and that you'll
make it a part of your daily self -care ritual.
Your lymph system loves rhythm, breath, and gentle
movement. So the more you nurture it, the better
you feel. Welcome back. The energetics of lymph
flow, the emotional and reflex connection. The
lymph system isn't just physical, it also reflects
emotional flow. Chakras are condensed, energy
spots, blockages in the heart or throat chakras.
often correspond to lymph stagnation in the neck
and chest grief and chronic stress frequently
show up as stagnation in the chest abdomen or
jaw each of the twelve meridian lines in your
body represents both emotional and physical concerns
brain lymphotics mood and trauma lymphatic connection
Researchers at the University of Virginia confirmed
what Ayurvedic medicine had long known. They
discovered hidden lymphatic vessels lining the
meninges of the brain, now known as the lymphatic
system, which detoxifies the brain and regulates
inflammation and immune balance. When the brain's
lymphatics fail to clear waste, toxins, and infections,
metabolic debris and inflammatory signals accumulate.
Medical and psychological disturbances such as
infection, autoimmunity, neuroinflammation, mood
disorders, and psychiatric imbalances occur.
Mood inflammation and immune dysfunction. Researchers
demonstrate a connection between poor lymphatic
drainage and neuroinflammation, a key driver
in mental health challenges. A recent meta -analysis
revealed that inflammation and immune dysregulation
potentially caused by poor lymphatic flow are
central to many psychiatric conditions. Other
studies have found elevated markers of C -reactive
protein in those suffering from depression, anxiety,
and even psychosis. Once again, poor glymphatic
movement may be to blame. We'll discuss the brainwash
cycle, how the glymphatic system works, after
a commercial break. Welcome back. The brainwash
cycle, how the glymphatic system works. Lymph
vessels in the brain are associated with the
sagittal and transverse sinuses. Initially, they
considered they only drain the cerebral spinal
fluid. These sinuses now are regarded as significant
exit highways for toxins, waste products, and
emotional impressions. The lymphatic system cleanses
itself during deep sleep when brain cells shrink.
During rest, cerebral spinal fluid. circulates
the brain to clear waste products. This brain
rinse brings clarity, emotional regulation, and
neurological resilience. Optimal lymphatic clearance
occurs when we sleep uninterrupted on our left
or right side. It doesn't drain well when we
sleep on our backs. Emotional imprints and trauma
storage. Research suggests that the lymphatic
system records emotional experiences in the waxy
myelin sheaths of the brain's white matter. If
the lymphatic flow becomes stagnant, these impressions
may remain unresolved, leading to chronic emotional
loops, mood instability, or brain fog. Lymphatic
congestion of the brain offers new insights into
trauma -based conditions like PTSD, depression,
and anxiety. It's not only a chemical imbalance.
Therapeutic pathways for brain lymph flow, deep
nasal herbal inhalation techniques can target
lymphatic drainage pathways in the brain through
the olfactory nerve and sinus lymph vessels.
Head and shoulder massage, craniosacral therapy,
acupuncture, shatsu head points, and reflexology
techniques. focused on the brain may support
more profound lymphatic movement, healing the
brain where science meets spirit. Understanding
that the brain has a lymphatic system opens a
new frontier in caring for our lymph, stimulating
the lymphatic function, improves emotional clarity,
supports natural mood balance, reduces inflammation
and mental fatigue, and deepens our capacity
to process and release stored trauma. and consciousness.
Detox congested trauma to promote mental health
and emotional healing as a fluid journey. Contraindications.
Lymphatic drainage is not for everyone. Avoid
if you have high risk of blood clot, clotting
disorders, congestive heart failure, and active
lymphatic infection, unexplained swelling, or
fever. Recent cancer unless cleared by your doctor.
For example, if someone has a localized infection,
increased lymph flow reduces the effectiveness
of antibiotics and spreads the infection to other
body areas. Sinus infections and colds are exemptions
to this rule. Research shows that lymphatic drainage
massages benefit participants age 60 or younger.
Holistic breath lymphatic health. A gentle daily
ritual for detox and self -awareness. The lymphatic
system maintains breast health by flushing toxins,
balancing fluids, and supporting immune function.
Breast tissue naturally has poor lymph flow,
and this stagnation can contribute to toxin buildup
and discomfort. This guide provides practical
tips and a daily ritual to support breast lymphatic
drainage, combining sinus, self -care, and energetic
awareness. The problem, stagnant breast lymph,
bras cross major lymph vessels, pathways causing
breast lymph and blood congestion in the armpits,
and are blocked milk ducts. Breast lymph, bras
cross major lymph, vessel pathways causing breast
lymph and blood congestion in the armpits, and
are blocked milk ducts and connective tissue.
Restrictions, if not well fitted. especially
for large -breasted women who wear thin strapped
bras and underwear sydney signer writer addressed
to kill researched four thousand women and concluded
that whether women are lactating or not wearing
tight -fitting underwire bras can lead to formation
of cancer fibrosis and lumps in the tissue Scientific
research has not found any relationship between
wearing tight -fitting underwire bras. However,
many people witness a reduction in cancer risk
from regular lymphatic massage. A Japanese study
showed that tight bras and girdles worn while
sleeping can lower nighttime melatonin levels,
potentially affecting sleep quality. Tight bras,
especially underwire, may also impair breast
tissue. natural thermoregulation by creating
a warmer environment that encourages cellular
overgrowth. Lymphatic flow may also support emotional
release. The chest area is closely associated
with the heart chakra, so unblocking the lymph
here may offer benefits beyond physical detox.
potentially easing feelings of grief, sadness,
or suppressed emotions. The lymphatic system
removes cellular waste, heavy metals, pesticides,
and plastic residues that accumulate in breast
tissue. Underwire bras, tight clothing, and poor
posture restricts lymph flow. Lack of movement
and shallow breathing further stagnant lymph.
Toxins may persist in tissues, increasing the
risk of inflammation or disease. Yet many people
have found benefits from incorporating lymphatic
drainage techniques into their daily routine.
Broad tips for better lymph flow. Avoid underwire
and skinny straps. Choose wide, comfortable straps
that distribute pressure evenly. do not wear
a bra that leaves deep indentations in the skin
rotate between bra styles to relax specific areas
get professionally fitted especially after weight
changes purchase a bra extender for the days
you feel a bit heavier push -up bras may increase
compression so limit their use The band on the
bra should be comfortably snug but not restricting.
If it's sliding around, then a tighter band is
needed. Utilize your bra's sister sizes by going
down a band size and up a cup size or vice versa.
For example, a 36DD would be a 34DD or a 38D.
Try it out to see if it's a better fit. The breasts
shouldn't pop out of the cups on the sides or
the top. Comfortable sports bras are also an
option. Give your body a break from a bra each
day. Going braless allows the lymphatic fluid
to detox naturally as it flows in and out of
the breasts. Daily breast lymphatic rituals,
deep diaphragmatic breathing, lie on your back
in a comfortable position. Place one hand on
your belly just below the rib cage and the other
on your chest. Inhale slowly and deeply through
your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise and
push the hand on your belly outward. The hand
on your chest should remain relatively still.
Exhale slowly through your mouth, often with
pursed lips. gently contracting your abdominal
muscles to help push the air out. The hand on
your belly should press down. Repeat for a few
minutes several times a day. Breast massage.
Apply warm castor oil or blend a grapefruit and
frankincense diluted in a carrier oil. Use light
circular and upward strokes towards the armpits
and collarbone. Massage helps break down stagnation
and soften fibrous tissue. Circulating the breasts
with the figure 8 in both directions with both
hands. When dry brushing, use a soft brush gently
with circular motion around the breasts, underarms,
collarbone, and upper chest, always moving towards
the heart. Facial massages combine the underarms,
collarbone, neckline, and facial lymphatic systems.
Gently roll. or scrape along the collarbones,
sternum, chest, neck, and underarms to release
tension in the fascia and stimulate lymph. Do
yoga poses or simple stretches such as arm circles,
wall angels, and chest openers. Do regular stretching
of the upper body and chest area. Join a rowing
team. Blocked energy in the chest area may manifest
as physical tension or lymphatic stagnation,
do an energetic check -in. The chest is home
to the heart chakra, which holds emotions like
grief, love, and vulnerability. The heart and
lung area represent grief. Place your hands over
your heart. Ask, how are my breaths feeling today?
Tune into any sensation. Tension or emotion with
gentle massage to help release emotional buildup
and promote balance. Other holistic tips. Use
non -chemical, non -toxic personal care products.
On your body and armpits. Stay hydrated and eat
anti -inflammatory, lymph -supporting foods that
speed up circulation, such as ginger, sage, rosemary,
turmeric, Ceylon cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
Foods rich in nitric oxide, such as beets, also
increase blood flow, which helps lymphatic movement,
limit exposure to endocrine -disrupting chemicals.
Red LED light therapy and yellow LED light also
speeds up lymphatic flow. Prevention is empowerment.
Breast self -awareness versus only self -exams.
Performing a lymphatic massage on your breasts
daily allows you to notice subtle changes, areas
of tension, or emotional holding patterns. Being
proactive in prevention is more important than
early detection of a lump with muscly breath
exams. Regular movement, self -care, and lymphatic
rituals support breast health and full body vitality.
Trust your body, listen to your intuition, and
permit yourself to care for your breast with
compassion and consistency. Conclusion A flowing
body is a healthy body. The lymphatic system
is intelligent and supports immunity, detoxification,
beauty, and emotional health. Breast health is
dependent on it as well. However, older people
or those with sun -damaged skin will not get
the same benefits as staying at lifestyle and
poor circulation resulting from a fully functioning
lymphatic system leads to sickness. Lifestyle
choices and regular maintenance of the lymphatic
system through massage, reflexology, deep breathing
techniques, hydration, and movement support can
profoundly improve your skin, energy, respiratory
immunity, and overall health. Don't overlook
this gentle but powerful system if you're experiencing
swelling, frequent illness, or stubborn skin
issues. For more serious conditions like lymphedema,
seek guidance from certified lymphatic massage
professionals. Whether seeking clearer skin,
stronger immunity, or emotional release, lymphatic
support offers a holistic path. It's where science
needs self -care. By understanding and honoring
the silent system, we empower ourselves to heal,
glow, and thrive inside and out. In the description
section, I'll have several options to aid lymphatic
flow as well as suggested bra styles. This guide
is for informational purposes only and does not
replace medical advice. Consult your healthcare
provider or certified lymphatic therapist or
doctor with any concerns about breast or lymphatic
health. Thank you for joining me today. You can
view this episode on many platforms. And join
us next time for more inspiration and practical
tools to help you live beautifully inside and
out. To connect with Ida, visit linktr.ee/idafanelli
Until then, take good care of yourself. And remember,
Self-care is where science and soul meet.