Ever heard of dry brushing?
When I first heard about dry-brushing, I did it for the skin. To have a good, better and glowing skin. Never did the word lymphatic crossed my mind.
That was in my college days. Ever since, I’ve been doing dry-brushing two to three times a week.
And then essential oils came into my world. And everything changed.
Well, first of all, let’s talk about the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is an important part of the immune system, comprised of a large network of lymphatic vessels that carry LYMPH, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body. This network of tissues and organs helps rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. This system needs help in TUNING UP its movement and its function because it only relies on muscle contractions and movement. Thus it can get sluggish or blocked which we don’t want. Because we want the lymphatic system to do its main purpose: to get rid of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials from our bodies. Signs of sluggish or blocked lymph: * Edema or puffiness of body parts, especially the eyes, face, hands, ankles, and feet * Fatigue * Swollen or tender glands * Frequent headaches * Sinus infections * Soreness or stiffness upon waking * Constipation * Brain fog * Worsened allergies * Food sensitivities * Increased colds or flu
There are a lot of natural ways to help your lymphatic system have good lymphatic flow in your body:
Get Moving – Because the lymph system relies on skeletal muscle contractions to move lymph throughout the body, exercise is a great way to keep things flowing. People who sit for a large portion of the day should take frequent breaks to get up and move around. Additionally, people who are overweight are more likely to have impaired lymphatic function.
Limit Toxic Load – The more toxins you take into your body, the more work you create for your lymph system. Limit your toxins by removing chemical cleaners and personal care products from your routines. Eat a clean diet and limit your intake of inflammatory foods, like sugar, processed foods, and red meat. Also drink plenty of clean, pure water throughout the day, every day.
Avoid Tight-Fitting Clothes – Lymph vessels sit directly beneath the skin surface, and can easily become compressed. Avoid wearing constrictive clothing for extended periods of time. Women especially should make sure their bras fit properly and not too tightly. Go bra-less as much as possible, and never sleep with a bra on. (Yes, this is becoming my advocacy)
Lymphatic Massage – Lymphatic massage can help release blockages in the lymph system. This gentle massage technique encourages the movement of lymph fluid in the body. You can find a professional lymphatic massage therapist, or you can try it yourself. So easy do this at home: • First create a massage blend: Combine 1/2 cup fractionated coconut oil (or other carrier oil), 10 drops fragonia essential oil, 10 drops cypress essential oil, 6 drops frankincense essential oil, and 5 drops grapefruit essential oil. *It is best to massage after a bath or shower when the skin is warm. • Locate lymph nodes on the body in the diagram to the below.
5. And my favorite of all??? Dry Brushing – (Been doing this since college days!)
This technique is similar to lymphatic massage, except a natural dry brush is used to stimulate circulation through the skin. • Purchase a natural bristle brush with a long handle. • Remove all clothing and jewelry, and stand in a bathtub or over a towel. • Start brushing at your feet with long, sweeping motions towards your heart. Gradually move up your legs, to your torso, arms, neck, and face. Brush several times in each area, overlapping as you go. • Be careful around more sensitive areas, and adjust your pressure to comfort. • After brushing your entire body, take a hot shower to further encourage circulation and remove loosened dead skin. • For best results, dry brush your body every day or at least 3 times a week. Be sure to clean your brush with soap and water weekly. • Pro Tip: Drop a few drops of Lavender or Cedarwood essential oil in your brush.
One of the best source in the Internet about essential oils and everything health related is in lindseyelmore.com
And if you’re ready to jump in the essential oil world, click this and message me to help you!