Quick Answer: Lymphatic drainage is the process of moving lymph fluid through your lymphatic system to remove toxins, reduce swelling, and support immune function. It can be achieved through manual massage techniques, exercise, dry brushing, proper hydration, and natural supplements like Lymph Go.
The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues, transporting immune cells throughout the body, removing cellular waste and toxins, and absorbing fats from the digestive system. Unlike blood circulation, which has the heart as a central pump, lymphatic fluid moves through a combination of muscle contractions, breathing movements, arterial pulsations, and the contraction of lymphatic vessels themselves.
When this drainage slows or becomes inefficient, fluid accumulates in tissues, causing swelling, discomfort, and a range of other symptoms. Lymphatic drainage techniques help stimulate the natural flow of lymph, supporting the system's normal function and promoting overall health.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialized massage technique developed in the 1930s by Dr. Emil Vodder. Unlike traditional massage that targets muscles, MLD focuses on the lymphatic vessels just beneath the skin using gentle, rhythmic movements.
The technique uses very light pressure—far lighter than typical massage. This is because lymphatic vessels are delicate and close to the skin surface. Heavy pressure can actually collapse these vessels, preventing rather than promoting lymph flow.
MLD follows specific patterns that mirror the natural direction of lymph flow, always moving toward lymph node clusters (neck, armpits, groin, behind knees). The massage stimulates lymphatic vessel contractions, encourages lymph fluid movement toward drainage points, reduces congestion in tissues, and promotes waste elimination through the lymphatic system.
Professional MLD: Performed by certified lymphatic drainage therapists who have received specialized training. Particularly beneficial for severe lymphedema or medical conditions. Can address complex drainage patterns and blockages. Usually involves multiple sessions for chronic issues.
Self-Drainage Techniques: Simpler methods you can perform at home. Effective for maintaining lymphatic health and addressing mild congestion. Requires learning proper technique but can be done daily. Provides ongoing maintenance between professional sessions.
While professional training is ideal, you can learn basic self-drainage techniques:
Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax. Use light pressure—think of gently moving the skin rather than pressing into muscle. Always work toward lymph node clusters. Breathe deeply and slowly throughout the process.
Neck Drainage: Begin by stimulating the lymph nodes in your neck. Place your fingers on either side of your neck, just below your ears. Gently stroke downward toward your collarbone 10-15 times. This "empties" the nodes, creating space for lymph from other areas.
Collarbone (Clavicle) Area: The major lymphatic ducts empty into veins near your collarbone. Using flat hands, stroke from your shoulders toward the center of your collarbone 10-15 times on each side.
Arms: Start at your hands, gently stroking up your arm toward your armpit (where major lymph nodes are located). Use continuous, flowing movements. Repeat 10-15 times on each arm. Pay special attention to the inner arm where more lymphatic vessels are located.
Chest: Place hands in the center of your chest. Using flat palms, stroke outward toward your armpits 10-15 times. This helps drain lymph from breast tissue toward the axillary (armpit) lymph nodes.
Abdomen: Starting just to the right of your belly button, make clockwise circular motions (following the path of your colon). This supports both digestive function and lymphatic drainage from abdominal organs.
Legs: Begin at your feet, stroking upward toward your knees 10-15 times. Then stroke from knees toward your groin 10-15 times. Finally, stroke from groin toward your belly button 10-15 times. This sequence moves lymph progressively toward major drainage points.
Back: This is difficult to reach yourself but can be helpful. If possible, stroke from your lower back upward and outward toward your armpits.
Self-drainage can be beneficial daily for general lymphatic health maintenance, before or after exercise to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery, when experiencing mild swelling or puffiness, during illness to support immune function, and as part of a comprehensive wellness routine.
Do NOT use lymphatic drainage massage if you have active infection with fever, blood clots or risk of blood clots, congestive heart failure, kidney problems, or cancer (unless cleared by your oncologist). Always consult a healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions before beginning self-drainage techniques.
Try Lymph Go risk-free with our 365-day money-back guarantee
ORDER LYMPH GO NOW365-Day Guarantee • Made in USA • GMP Certified