We routinely see signs of lymphatic congestion in the head, neck, breast, chest and abdomen. If you have a report that suggests lymphatic congestion, the information here can help you to manage this condition that may seem harmless … but over time can affect your health in a major way.

The lymphatic system works steadily to keep you clean and well. These nutritional and lifestyle guidelines will go a long way toward reducing the overall “body sludge” your lymph system must sweep away. In addition, we recommend the following steps to ensure that your lymph remains clear and unimpeded. Noticeable problems can include accumulation of belly fat, cellulite, worsened allergies and sensitivities, joint pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, muscle cramps, breast tenderness and much more. Regardless of whether you have symptoms or not, every woman will benefit from these techniques.

• Clean up your diet. Reduce your body’s toxic burden by avoiding processed food, eating organic when possible, and eliminating simple sugars and carbohydrates. The idea here is that the less waste your lymph has to deal with, the more easily it will flow.
• A regular nutritional detox and colon cleanse, supported by liver enzymes, will ease your liver and kidney burden, which in turn will decrease pressure on your spleen. Even two–week Quick-Cleanse can do wonders.
• Investigate any food sensitivities or allergies that may be affecting your digestion. Look into probiotic supplements to help maintain a healthy ratio of intestinal flora. Deal with any troublesome GI issues, including parasites. If necessary, talk to your practitioner about relevant tests.
• Drink plenty of purified or filtered water – at least six to eight 8–oz glasses per day. Your body needs hydration to keep the fluids running!
• Consider regular visits to a lymph drainage massage therapist. This is a wonderful and healthy way to pamper yourself (and your internal organs). This is especially invaluable during a detox.
• Dry brushing – a soft bath brush used dry (just before shower is perfect). Brush from back to front, under the arm and across the chest, 10 times on each side.
• Practice deep breathing. Breathing deeply from the diaphragm, not shallowly from the chest, and through the nose rather than the mouth, is one of the best ways to move lymph fluid through your body.
• Get regular physical exercise. Jumping on a rebounder, or mini-trampoline, just five minutes a day is a great way to get your lymph system pumping. Walking, stretching, t’ai chi, yoga, Pilates, and other moderate activities are helpful, too — especially if you do them every day. Or find an activity that suits you. Some women prefer ballroom dancing, others swimming. What’s important is that you make it a regular and joy-inducing part of your life.
• Don’t be afraid to sweat! A weekly sauna or steam bath is a pleasant way to facilitate a healthy sweat, and sweating helps detoxify the body and so supports lymphatic function. Avoid aluminum-based antiperspirants (they block sweating and add to your toxic load) and choose natural deodorants instead.
• Avoid restrictive clothing that press on your lymph nodes. Under-wires and overtight bras, jeans, and skirts can impede lymph flow. Try to go bra-free for at least 12 hours a day.