Lymphatic Drainage Massages

Everything You Need to Know About Lymphatic Drainage Massages

Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle kind of massage that promotes the movement of fluids in the lymphatic system. The countless health benefits of this treatment explain why it has been growing in popularity around the world.

Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage has several benefits that can help you achieve a wide range of health and wellness goals. London based massage therapist Ana Trida tells us that it “improves the body as a whole and is intended to eliminate the excess liquids and toxins, strengthen the immune system, and increase tissue oxygen.” This removes accumulations of liquid known as edemas, and reduces pain that comes from swelling.

Ana further explains that the massage improves circulation with “specific movements that use a gentle pressure to reduce fluid retention” and is meant to “improve cellulitis, regenerate the tissues, relax the muscles, improve the skin appearance, and overall tone the body.” As an added bonus, lymphatic drainage boosts metabolism and improves digestion. It is even known to alleviate symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), promoting relaxation and decreasing the occurrences of menstrual cramps.

How Lymphatic Drainage Works

The therapy works with the lymphatic system, which functions as a third circulation in the body, after the arterial and venous systems. The viscous, yellow fluid that circulates through this network of lymphatic vessels is a called the lymph. It is rich in proteins, white blood cells, and microorganisms, while also carrying bacteria and toxins.

Like blood, the lymph performs metabolic changes on cells, which are then collected by the vessels of the lymphatic system and returned to the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes, found throughout the body, are an important part of the immune system. Their function is to help the body recognize and fight off germs, infections and other foreign substances.

With the impurities from the lymph drained into the lymph nodes, your lymphatic system is encouraged to work better and better, making you feel lighter and healthier. Massage therapist Flavia Morellato says, “Lymphatic Drainage is a wonderful tool to boost your health and make you look even better. By stimulating the lymph glands, it flushes out water retention and toxins. It also speeds up metabolism, helps the digestion and bloating, increases circulation and boosts the immune system…. you feel light as a feather.”

Who Should Get Lymphatic Drainage

Practically all people can get this treatment, with a few exceptions. If you are pregnant, you may receive a lymphatic drainage massage only after the third month of gestation with medical authorization. Medical authorization is also required post-cosmetic surgery and for those who have Lymphedema. Unfortunately, this massage cannot be safely performed on those who suffer from heart problems, kidney failure problems, thrombosis, cancer decompensated, or thyroid decompensated.

How Often You Should Get Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic Drainage is a treatment that should be part of your routine. You can do it weekly or two times per week, depending on your needs. These needs are usually based on your prior levels of fluid retention, bloating, toxicity and discomfort. If one of your goals is also to relax, rest assured—you will come out of the massage feeling extremely relaxed and lighter. 

Best Places in NYC

IMD Spa– located in the Flatiron District, IMD offers body lymphatic drainage, slimming and cellulite treatments, detox body scrubs, and prenatal massages. You can even get a one-on-one consultation for a customized treatment!

Flavia Lanini– based between NYC and LA, Flavia uses her signature method, called “The Massage Effect,” to stimulate areas of the body and face. She offers at-home massages that provide major relaxation and lead to water-weight loss.

Best Places in London

Ana Trida Therapist– Ana offers lymphatic drainage, facial lymphatic drainage, and her lymphatic drainage modeling massage, which reduces cellulite and tones the body. She will make you slimmer and improve the appearance of your skin.

Flavia Morellato– Flavia offers a contouring tummy massage and cellulite massage in addition to classic lymphatic drainage. She is also the perfect therapist for high-skilled, post-surgical care. 

Best Places in Miami

Patricia Zilman– Check out Patricia’s Instagram to see astounding face, tummy and leg-toning transformations!

Hochstein MedSpa– Hochstein MedSpa addresses your individual beauty needs with lymphatic drainage, fat-reduction, and anti-cellulite massages. They also offer in-spa consultations for advanced rejuvenation and enhancement procedures!

Best Places in LA

Detox Massage LA– Detox Massage LA showcases incredible before-and-after treatment photos on their Instagram, famous for slimming and toning.

Andreia Souto Body Care– Andreia Souto also provides amazing, slimming and toning transformations, as displayed on their Instagram page.

Pellequr– located in Beverly Hills, Pellequr is a Korean beauty spa that offers detoxifying and purifying scrubs. My friend Lauryn from The Skinny Confidential recommends Hailey for facials! 

Best Place in Toronto

Sandra Fox– Sandra is a holistic practitioner who performs reflexology, Bellanina facelift massages, manual lymphatic drainage, and Reiki.