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.
To get the most out of your lymphatic drainage massage, it's advisable to avoid eating at least one hour before your treatment, preferably longer. Having a full stomach can cause discomfort during the massage, especially when the therapist is working on the abdomen.
Eat light meals a few hours before your massage to allow for proper digestion and avoid bloating. This ensures you're comfortable and able to fully enjoy the session. Proper meal timing helps your body focus on the benefits of the massage without being distracted by digestive discomfort.
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.
It takes energy (a lot of it) to detoxify our body, and you may feel tired for a day or two after your first appointment. Your lymphatic system is working faster and harder than it was before you came in for your appointment, and it'll stay stimulated for the next 24-48 hours.
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.
A massage therapist uses lymphatic drainage techniques to move lymph from your tissues to your lymph nodes, which eases the swelling.
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.
Most people tolerate lymphatic drainage massage well. But it sometimes may cause: Headaches. Nausea.
Sleep on your left hand side
In holistic medicine the left side of the body is the dominant lypmphatic side so sleeping in this position allows your body to naturally take pressure off lymph drainage from the heart and spleen.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing
Lymphatic drainage massage involves light, gentle strokes, so you should wear clothing that allows the therapist to access the area of the body being treated easily.
Rare side effects of lymphatic drainage massage include dizziness and nausea caused by blood flow changes. A full medical history will be taken to examine the risks. It is advised to have something to eat or drink before your appointment to prevent dizziness caused by drop in blood pressure.
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.
Lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite but will not get rid of it completely. The most likely cause of weight loss immediately following the massage is the loss of excess fluid and potential bowel movement that occurs afterwards.
In conclusion, it is not uncommon to notice a smell on your skin after receiving a massage. Factors such as the type of oil used, sweating during the session, and poor hygiene practices can all contribute to any odors present.
How to Prepare for a Lymphatic Massage. Drink plenty of water before your session. Hydration helps your lymphatic system function optimally and can enhance the effectiveness of the massage. Try to eat only a light meal a few hours before your massage.
Diaphragmatic (or abdominal) breathing is one of the most effective ways to stimulate fluid moving through the thoracic duct of the central lymphatics. Start by finding a comfortable position, ideally by laying on your back with your legs up on a bolster or elevated on pillows.
The best products for lymphatic drainage, at a glance:
Best Dry Brush With Handle: Goop Beauty Dry Brush, $25. Best Gua Sha for Body: Skin Gym Sculptural Body Gua Sha, $52. Best Handheld Dry Brush: OSEA Body Brush, $28. Best Jade Gua Sha: Mount Lai The Jade Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool, 29.