Why is lymphatic system detoxing so important?
Personally I believe the term ‘detox’ is overused in Naturopathic Medicine. But ensuring the lymphatic system is able to purge things properly is an effective way to keep things moving onward and out. The lymph vessels drain all throughout the body. Here are some essential ways to naturally keep your lymphatic system open:
- Drink plenty of room temperature water! The lymph system is composed of approximately 95% water. in order for it to expel naturally, it is important to stay hydrated.
2. Dry brushing! All you need is a dry brush with natural fiber bristles (check them out in our store!). Dry brushing is a great way to increase circulation, remove dead skin, and move the lymphatic system. Dry brush prior to a shower using upward and out motions. I personally start at my feet and ankles, work my way up the body pushing outwards with the brush, move up to my arms, neck, and chest, and then hop in the shower. In Greece and Japan, this is a very common way to not only “beautify” the skin but becomes a health regimen as well.
3. Hydrotherapy: This is mild torture but I have seen some good results with this therapy. You can do hydrotherapy at home with the use of hot and cold water. Hydrotherapy helps stimulate the body’s natural response to detox the kidneys, colon, lymphatic system, and liver.
To perform hydrotherapy, stand in a warm/hot shower for 3 minutes, then follow with 30 seconds of cold. Repeat this 3 times ending on a cold cycle. Be smart, don’t turn up the water too hot! If it is too hot, turn the water down.
If you feel lightheaded from the hydrotherapy, STOP. I do not recommend hydrotherapy for those who have issues from neuropathy or impaired temperature sensations (ahem, Bartonella folks).
My tips: begin with water that is slightly cool and work your way up to a colder temperature as you build tolerance. Think of this therapy as a form of exercise.
4. Epsom salt soaks are another fabulous method for lymphatic detoxing. To start use 2 cups of Epsom salts and 1 cup of baking soda in water. Soak for no longer than 20 minutes. The minerals help release toxins from the body and improve overall circulation. Epsom salt baths are also a great way to detox cellular waste products.
5. Home sauna use: This is very different than the ozone sauna we have in office. Infrared saunas help your lymphatic system function better by sweating out the toxic material in the body. Keep in mind, an infrared sauna does not sweat out pathogens, viruses, parasites, etc. Infrared saunas are primarily a great way to maintain health, encouraging the drainage of the lymphatic system.
Opening up drainage pathways is a great way to begin any health regimen. This is my first step in any protocol I use with my clients or myself before beginning any supplements or ozone therapies. Also keep in mind healthy food and plenty of rest is crucial before beginning any health protocol in order to achieve higher rates of success.
Happy Detoxing!
Rae