What Is The Lymphatic System?

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The lymphatic system provides many important functions in our body including returning fluids from our tissues back to the circulatory system, transport of proteins, absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins, and it plays a very large role in immunity. ​Without our lymphatic system, we could not live. 

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There are 600-700+ lymph nodes in the body, as well as innumerable lymphatic vessels that transport lymph throughout the system. The majority of lymph nodes reside in the head, neck, and belly, and there are other various clusters of nodes throughout the body, as well as other lymphatic tissues and organs such as the thymus gland, spleen, bone marrow, tonsils, appendix, and Peyer's patches within the small intestine.

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The lymphatic system in your brain is called the "glymphatic system" and it has many implications in neurological conditions, dementia, brain fog, and more. This is a rapidly-growing area of medical research.

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The body is delineated into lymphatic flow areas called "watersheds". These vessels flow toward certain clusters of nodes, and eventually lead to larger trunks and back into the major blood vessels near the clavicle, just like rivers flowing toward the ocean. MLD focuses on supporting the natural activity of these watersheds in people with fully functioning lymphatic systems, and helps redirect flow in those who have a compromised lymphatic system, such as with removal of lymph nodes, or in lymphedema.

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What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

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Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle technique that utilizes very light pressure and rhythmic movements to mimic the natural flow of the lymphatic system and stimulate its intrinsic activity.​

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MLD has many uses including:

• management of lymphedema

• pre/post surgery

• pain relief

• hormone support (PMS, perimenopause, etc)

• autoimmune conditions

• whiplash

• headaches and migraines

• vascular insufficiency

• complex regional pain syndrome

• pelvic congestion syndrome

• fibromyalgia

• multiple sclerosis

• rheumatoid arthritis

• neuropathy

• stress

• insomnia

• immune support

• sinusitis

• injury recovery

• swelling/puffiness

• general health and wellness

• and more

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MLD is a deeply soothing technique that is therapeutic on many levels:

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• Physically it creates profound relaxation in the nervous system, helps alleviate pain, and provides symptom relief from numerous health conditions.

• Emotionally it helps release anything you may be holding and are ready to let go.

• Energetically it gently moves the waters of the body allowing optimal flow of energy channels.​

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What Does It Feel Like?

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Hands-on treatment is performed directly on skin without oils, creams, or tools. Although MLD is sometimes referred to as "lymphatic massage" it is very different from massage therapy. The technique used at The Soma Haus is based on the Vodder technique which uses a gentle and rhythmic stretching of the skin and superficial tissues, with slightly deeper pressure in areas of lymph nodes such as the underarm, and deep diaphragmatic breathing.