The following tips will help you prepare for lymphatic drainage massage and reduce the risk of side effects. Drink plenty of water before (and after) the massage to encourage lymph flow. Eat a light meal before the treatment.
To prepare yourself for lymphatic drainage massage therapy you should drink a lot of water before and after the massage, avoid eating one hour before treatment and reduce taking salty food, sugar, and alcohol before and after the massage for the best result.
Avoid lotions and oils: It's best to avoid using lotions or oils on the skin before the massage, as they can interfere with the therapist's ability to perform the massage. Drink water: Drink water before the massage to help hydrate the body and promote the flow of lymph fluid.
Proper hydration is key to maintaining a healthy lymphatic system. Drinking plenty of water before and after your MLD session is crucial to help flush out toxins and promote lymphatic flow. The recommended amount of water to drink post-Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is approximately 1 to 2 liters per day.
It is fine to eat before and after a MLD treatment. It is recommended that you drink some water after your treatment and you may need to go to the toilet more often, as the re-energised lymphatic system starts to recycle excess fluid and waste. After an MLD treatment, you should feel more relaxed and clear headed!
Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.
Our therapists recommend eating a light meal or coming in on an empty stomach prior to your massage. Eating too much too close to your service can leave you feeling too bloated on the table. It's also best to avoid drinking alcohol or limiting the amount of alcohol you consume prior to your appointment.
By avoiding hot showers or baths immediately after, you can help your lymph nodes continue to function optimally. Massage therapists often advise against intense heat, which can cause your lymphatic vessels to dilate and become less effective.
The idea is to use very light pressure to massage the area and push fluid that's causing swelling back toward the heart. Move your fingers in a motion that creates the letter “C,” gently massaging tissues that are NOT swollen.
Get a good night's rest – It's possible you may feel a little tired after receiving a lymphatic drainage massage. That's completely normal as your body's energy is concentrated on the detoxification process its undergoing. Get to bed early if you can and enjoy a deep rest.
The most common reason for lymphatic obstruction is the removal or enlargement of the lymph nodes. Other causes of lymphatic obstruction include: Infections with parasites, such as filariasis. Injury.
When you are fasting, your body will break down fat and excrete some of it through the lymphatic system. 2. If the lymphatic system is congested, it will make it harder to remove the fat from the body potentially slowing the normal function of the body and weight loss.
It's advisable not to drink alcohol or caffeine after lymphatic drainage for the rest of that day as that would be reloading your newly-cleansed body with toxins, and it could make you feel a bit queasy.
If it's working, you should start to get relief from your symptoms of lymphedema in time. Your swelling should go down. You'll feel less heavy or tight. It will be easier to move, too.
Usually, some results will be noticeable immediately after your facial lymphatic drainage massage however the fluid will begin to properly drain around 24 to 48 hours post massage. For each individual client, the rate of lymphatic drainage can differ and therefore each individual will notice different results.
Thus, supporting it through lymphatic drainage massage can help enhance your overall wellness. However, it is crucial to avoid overdoing it, as excessive massage can lead to bruising and swelling, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Try to eat only a light meal a few hours before your massage. Avoid greasy or heavy foods that can make you feel sluggish. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. This will make it easier for the therapist to reach the areas they need to work on.
If things aren't able to leave our body as quickly as they are accumulating, we may experience something known as a "Detox Flu" after our MLD session. This is due to the temporary strain that detoxification puts on our body, and can include a low-grade fever, chills, and body aches. It's rare, but it can happen.
Lymphatic drainage massage is a form of gentle massage that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It can help relieve symptoms of lymphedema. The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from body tissues.
After your massage, wait at least 30 minutes to an hour before eating. This allows your body to fully absorb the benefits of the massage and settle into a state of relaxation.
It is generally recommended to eat a light meal or snack about 1 to 2 hours before your massage session. This allows enough time for your body to digest the food and ensures that you have enough energy during the massage. Opt for easily digestible foods like fruits, vegetables, or a small portion of lean protein.
Standard Tip Percentage Guidelines for a Massage
A good rule of thumb for tipping in the massage industry is between 15% and 20% of the total service cost, which is the standard practice in the broader service industry.