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    Love your lymph with Naomi Northern-Ellis

    enMarch 27, 2019

    Podcast Summary

    • Understanding the Lymphatic System's Role in HealthThe lymphatic system, responsible for cleansing and detoxifying the body, relies on muscle contractions instead of a pumping organ like the heart. Staying active is essential for its proper functioning, as symptoms like dark circles, swelling, and fatigue may indicate a sluggish lymphatic system.

      Our bodies have two essential systems for maintaining health: the circulatory system, which pumps blood, and the lymphatic system, which relies on movement to cleanse and detoxify the body. Blue Nile offers lab-grown diamonds for special moments, while PlushCare simplifies weight loss with online doctor consultations and medication. Naomi Northern Ellis, founder of Body Balancer, shares insights on the lymphatic system, often overlooked despite its crucial role in supporting the immune, digestive, and other systems. Unlike the heart-pumped blood, the lymphatic system's lymph fluid moves through the body via muscle contractions. Keeping active is vital for its proper functioning. Symptoms of a sluggish lymphatic system include dark circles, swelling, and fatigue. To learn more about this vital system and how to support it, tune in to the full discussion with Naomi Northern Ellis.

    • Supporting the lymphatic system in Ayurvedic medicineGentle activities like body brushing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help support the lymphatic system, which is crucial for removing cell waste and part of the immune system.

      The lymphatic system, responsible for removing cell waste and part of the immune system, is often referred to as the "water of life" in Ayurvedic medicine. This intricate system, made up of tiny vessels and lymph nodes, is crucial for our health. Lymph collects in nodes to fight infections, and keeping the lymphatic system healthy is essential, especially in today's sedentary lifestyle. Gentle activities like body brushing, starting from the feet and moving upwards, can help support the lymphatic system. Remember, be gentle as lymphatics are just below the skin and pressing too hard can impede flow. This Cinderella system of the body works independently and is vital for maintaining overall health.

    • Exploring the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage for managing primary lymphedemaLymphatic drainage massage is a gentle technique for managing primary lymphedema, a type of lymphatic system breakdown. It involves light, pumping actions on the skin to stimulate lymphatic flow. While it cannot cure primary lymphedema, it can help reduce swelling and improve overall wellbeing.

      Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle technique that mimics the natural flow of the lymphatic system. It involves light, pumping actions on the skin to encourage lymphatic flow. Primary lymphedema, which some people are born with, is a type of lymphatic system breakdown that can cause swelling. Unlike secondary lymphhedema, which is more commonly associated with cancer treatment and node removal, primary lymphedema cannot be cured but can be managed with various methods including massage. The massage should be done gently, with the right amount of pressure to stimulate lymphatic flow without causing discomfort. It's important to note that light stroking alone may not be effective. The speaker shared her personal experience of living with primary lymphedema since childhood, which went undiagnosed until her forties when she noticed her legs were not responding to intense workouts like her slender-limbed family members. She was eventually diagnosed by a cosmetic surgeon and learned about the importance of gentle lymphatic drainage massage as part of her management strategy.

    • Understanding Lymphedema: Prevention and ManagementThough the lymphatic system can't be repaired, awareness and management techniques like MLD and compression garments can help prevent or reduce symptoms of lymphedema for those at risk.

      While the lymphatic system cannot be repaired once damaged, leading to lymphedema, not everyone who undergoes cancer treatment will develop it. Some people may experience it immediately, while others may notice symptoms years later. Awareness of this condition is crucial, and those diagnosed with lymphedema can manage it through techniques like manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and wearing compression garments. MLD, performed by a specialist therapist, helps to stimulate the lymphatic system and reduce swelling. Compression garments, available in various classes, support the lymphatics and help maintain leg shape. Custom-made and more expensive options offer greater strength and medical benefits. While it's essential to wear compression garments for medical reasons, support tights are recommended for travel to prevent swelling during long flights.

    • Swelling in the cabin due to reduced lymphatic flowCombat swelling during flights by doing simple exercises, wearing compression tights, using small pumps, or getting massages to stimulate lymphatic flow and maintain good circulation.

      When flying, the air pressure in the cabin can cause swelling in the legs and ankles due to reduced lymphatic flow. Cabin crew, who are constantly moving, often wear compression tights to help manage this issue. For passengers, simple exercises like rocking back on the heels can help stimulate lymphatic flow and reduce puffiness. Elderly or immobile passengers can benefit from using small pumps or getting massages to aid lymphatic drainage. Swelling can create a vicious circle, making it harder for individuals to move and worsening the issue. Regular exercise and maintaining good circulation are essential to prevent and manage swelling.

    • Using the Body Balancer for Lymphatic Support During PregnancyThe Body Balancer, a large pair of trousers filled with air pockets, offers a non-invasive, convenient, and potentially more comfortable alternative to manual lymphatic drainage for pregnant women dealing with lymphedema.

      During pregnancy, the increased fluid in the body and the weight of the baby can put pressure on the lymphatic system, leading to issues like lymphedema. Manual lymphatic drainage and compression garments were common solutions in the past, but they came with their own challenges. Enter the Body Balancer, a large pair of trousers filled with air pockets, designed to mimic the effects of manual lymphatic drainage. Created for the medical field, each pocket overlaps perfectly to prevent fluid build-up. To use it, one simply lies down and slips into the trousers as the cells fill with air, providing gentle compression and encouraging fluid movement. This non-invasive method offers a more convenient and potentially more comfortable alternative to traditional methods.

    • Enhancing lymphatic flow for better healthMassage and tools like body balancers can improve lymphatic flow, reducing swelling and excess fluid, contributing to overall health. Companies like Blue Nile, 1800 Flowers, PlushCare, and Quince offer products and services to support well-being.

      The human body has an intricate system for circulating lymph, which can be enhanced through various methods such as massage and the use of tools like body balancers. These practices help improve lymphatic flow, reducing swelling and excess fluid, and contributing to overall health and well-being. Additionally, companies like Blue Nile and 1800 Flowers offer thoughtful gifts for special occasions, while PlushCare provides telehealth services for weight loss support. Quince offers high-quality, ethically-sourced fashion at affordable prices. Overall, taking care of our bodies and celebrating life's moments are important aspects of living well.

    • Supporting the Lymphatic System for Improved Skin HealthLight body treatments like body brushing, exercise, and compression garments can enhance lymphatic flow and blood circulation, reducing the appearance of cellulite and improving overall skin health.

      The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in our body by absorbing waste and debris, and it can be supported through various methods such as body brushing, exercise, and compression garments. Cellulite, a condition characterized by the appearance of bumpy and dimpled skin, is a result of fat deposits pushing against a hardened mesh-like structure in the body. Treatments like body balancing, which enhances lymphatic flow and blood circulation, can help improve skin tone and soften the appearance of cellulite. It's important to remember that the pressure used in these treatments should be light, as less is more when dealing with the lymphatic system.

    • Maintaining a Healthy Lymphatic System through Massage and LifestyleMassage techniques like gentle limb massage and specific manual lymphatic drainage can help stimulate lymphatic flow, while staying hydrated and active support overall lymphatic health.

      Maintaining a healthy lymphatic system is essential for overall well-being, especially as we age. A gentle, sweeping massage along the limbs and finishing points in the groin can help stimulate lymphatic flow if you're having a general massage. However, manual lymphatic drainage requires specific techniques, starting with the neck, thorax, and shoulder area, and working slowly downwards. Dehydration and lack of sleep can cause puffiness and fluid retention, which may be signs of lymphatic issues. To support lymphatic health, it's recommended to drink plenty of water throughout the day and keep fluid intakes up before and after massages. Regular massage and maintaining an active lifestyle can help encourage lymphatic flow and the release of waste matter, promoting overall health and well-being.

    • Maintaining a Healthy Circulatory System: Precautions for DVTWear compression garments, stay hydrated, move frequently, and practice gentle lymphatic facial massage for better circulation and overall health.

      Maintaining a healthy circulatory system is crucial for overall health. If you have Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), it's essential to take extra precautions, such as wearing compression garments and avoiding massages. Compression garments help encourage blood flow and prevent blood from pooling, but they don't impede lymphatic flow or cause excessive pressure. Simple lymphatic facial massage techniques, like gentle stroking from the inner eye outward, can help reduce puffiness and bags under the eyes. Additionally, staying hydrated, moving frequently during long flights, and wearing compression garments can all contribute to better circulation and overall health.

    • Exploring Lymphatic Drainage for Health and BeautyEuropean clinics offer lymphatic drainage treatments for health and beauty, while personal use products are available. Lymphatic drainage supports wellness and can be a valuable addition to one's routine. Visit lizardwell-being.com for recipes, wisdom, and behind the scenes treats.

      European clinics and beauty salons are increasingly offering lymphatic drainage treatments, which can support health and be tried at home. These treatments can be found in local clinics or purchased for personal use. Lymphatic drainage is known for its health-giving properties and can be a valuable addition to one's wellness routine. For more information, visit lizardwell-being.com and sign up for the free newsletter for recipes, well-being wisdom, and behind the scenes treats. The website may also have a feature on dry skin body brushing with diagrams. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review to help others find the show. In other news, for those in between jobs or missed open enrollment, UnitedHealthcare TriTerm Medical plans offer budget-friendly, flexible coverage for nearly 3 years in some states, with access to a nationwide network of doctors and hospitals. If you're planning a trip, consider Quince for high-quality, ethically-made travel essentials at affordable prices. And for cat owners, Pretty Litter offers a smart, innovative crystal formula for superior odor control, lighter weight, and early health monitoring for cats. Use code "acast" for 20% off your first order and a free cat toy. Stay tuned for more wellness tips and discoveries. Until next time!

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