Puffy eyes, tired all the time, always getting sick? Check this out.

Do you ever experience any of the following: frequent illness, brain fog, acne/rashes, bloating, puffy face especially under the eyes in the morning, swelling in the legs/hands/feet, fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes or cellulite?

These can be signs that your lymphatic system isn’t draining properly. This means the lymph isn’t circulating as it should and has become sluggish or congested. The good news is that there are some simple ways you can support your lymphatic system from home and get things running smoothly again. 

First of all let’s talk about what the lymphatic system does and why it’s important. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and lymph vessels that filter lymph fluid. A working lymphatic system is key to a healthy, properly functioning immune system. This system removes waste products including bacteria from the tissues to keep harmful substances from building up in certain areas. The system as a whole plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption, fluid balance, filtering out waste and fighting infections. I could go on and on about all the wonderful things a working lymphatic system does but let’s get to the part where I tell you how to get things moving smoothing again so you can decrease any symptoms you may be experiencing. Bottom line lymphatic drainage is important to overall health. 

The number one way to get lymph moving through your body is EXERCISE. This is because lymph doesn’t have a pump system like blood does. Anything from a HIIT workout to a nice walk all help. Even stretching gets lymph moving. A fun way to exercise and move that lymph is on a rebounder. These are gaining popularity and can be super fun. A rebounded in a small trampoline and all you have to do is put on some good music and jump! This can be done inside or outside but if the sun is shining, take it outside! I have a great one I can recommend if you are interested. 

Another way to make sure your lymph isn’t getting congested is to stay hydrated! You should be drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water every day. Example: weight 160lbs = drinking 80 oz of water daily. 

Next up, lymphatic massage. Did someone say massage? Yes, please! There are many videos on youtube on how to do a lymphatic massage. This helps open up those lymph nodes and gets things flowing. If you are waking up with a puffy face, especially under your eyes, look up gua sha facial massage. This uses a stone to get lymph moving through your face and also just feels so good. I can also demonstrate this for you.

Something as simple as deep belly breathing can also move lymph through the body because it creates pressure in the body to push lymph through the vessels.

Another fun way to get things moving is a vibration plate. My kids and I fight over the vibration plate because not only does it help with lymph drainage but it’s also pretty fun. I love mine if anyone needs a recommendation and wants to try it. I promise you won’t regret it. 

A few other things that can help are dry brushing, saunas, alternating hot and cold water in the shower, and eating lymph friendly foods such as ginger, turmeric, garlic, citrus fruits, leafy greens and beets. 

If you are experiencing any of all of the symptoms stated at the beginning, give some of these a try and watch your symptoms drastically improve!