Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a gentle manual technique used to help increase lymph flow. It is a very relaxing, non oiled massage modality. Some would say that MLD is not a massage at all, but rather a slight skin stretching technique used to mimic the Lymphatic system's natural movement. The movement is relaxing to the point of being almost hypnotic. The body switches into parasympathetic nervous system which is extremely relaxing as well as where our bodies go to do our own healing and resting.

Who benefits from Manual Lymph Drainage? There are many health problems that may result from congested and stagnant lymph drainage. Here is partial list of conditions that may improve with increased lymph flow: arthritis, post-breast-cancer lymphedema, cellulite, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, fibromyalgia, HIV, sinus problems, sluggishness, frequent colds or flu, congested lungs, wrinkles, vertigo, edema, toxin accumulation, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, kidney problems, lupus, lymphedema, neck & shoulder stiffness, premenstrual syndrome, polyps, skin disorders and stress.

MLD promotes the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, sprains and lessens the pain, promotes healing of wounds and burns and improves the appearance of old scars minimizes or reduces stretch marks. Lymphatic drainage massage can help to stimulate the immune system and metabolism for healthy weight loss. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in the body's ability to heal from injury and to ward off disease.

The purpose of lymph drainage massage is to mechanically move fluid through the body's tissues, removing waste materials and infectious microorganisms, and pushing that fluid through lymph nodes which clean lymph fluid and return it to the vascular system. Your lymphatic system is your primary defense against bacteria, viruses and fungus.

For the most part lymphatic drainage massage is safe. However as with all massage therapies there are some contraindications. For lymphatic massage specifically, these include acute inflammation, malignant tumors, thrombosis and major heart problems.