Listen y’all, the lymphatic system doesn’t get nearly enough credit. Nobody pulled me aside growing up to say, “Hey, this is how your body keeps things moving.” But once I learned? Woo child, it clicked. This system’s job is to move fluids and clear out junk. And it also gives your immune system that extra backup we all need throughout the year.
When it’s working right, you can feel it. You’ve got more energy and your body feels lighter and less puffy. But if it slows down? That’s when the swelling shows up and your whole vibe gets thrown off.
That’s why I’m always showing my body some love with a little lymphatic drainage massage. Let me walk you through why it matters and how you can start making it part of your own routine.
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What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
So here’s the real tea. Sometimes when you feel heavy or puffy, it’s not necessarily from you gaining weight. Your body might just be holding on to waste and extra fluid.Â
Lymphatic drainage massage is one of the easiest ways to help your system release all that. It’s a gentle massage that stimulates your lymph nodes. And it supports way more than just bloating. We’re talking gut health, skin issues, wound healing, your immune system, all of it.* And the best part, y’all? It’s free, so it’s accessible to everyone!
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A lot of people only think about lymphatic massage for the face (and yes, we love a gua sha or jade roller moment) but your lymphatic system runs through your whole body. Arms, legs, belly, chest, everywhere. When you give attention to the full system, not only does your face de-puff, but your energy shoots up and your whole body feels lighter.
When I started adding lymphatic massage into my own routine, the difference was wild. My under-eye circles faded, my puffiness calmed down, and my jawline was looking snatched, honey. And honestly, it just feels good to do.
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How to Practice Lymphatic Massage
Alright y’all, let’s actually do this. Lymphatic massage sounds fancy but it’s really not. You don’t need tools, oils, or a spa appointment. Just your hands. A few minutes. That’s it.
Here’s how I like to set it up. I’ll turn on some music I love. Sometimes I light a candle. If I’m in the mood, I’ll make a cup of tea with herbs that support the lymph. Nothing complicated. Just whatever makes me feel relaxed and present.
I like to use our lavender body oil when I do this massage. It helps my hands glide so I’m not pulling on my skin, and it just makes the whole thing feel smoother. Lavender is calming too, so while you’re working on your lymph, you’re also getting that chill, relaxed vibe. Your skin soaks it up and it turns the massage into more of a self-care moment than just another step on your to-do list.
Here’s how to get started:
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1. Start with your belly
Gently press inward on your abdomen. Take three deep breaths on each side. This helps stimulate your lymph nodes right at the core.
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2. Collarbone area
Place your whole hand near your collarbone and do 8 to 10 gentle circles. Switch sides and repeat.
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3. Underarms
Slide your hand under your armpit and lightly massage 8 to 10 times on each side. This helps move everything toward your body’s natural drainage points.
4. Groin area
Use small circles with your hand 8 to 10 times. This step really helps with puffiness.
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5. Face and neck
Start by moving from your ear down toward your collarbone 8 to 10 times. Do the same under your cheekbones, always working down toward the armpit. Light pressure only. Lymph nodes don’t need much.
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6. Arms
Massage your shoulders 8 to 10 times, then work down your arms and forearms with the same gentle movement.
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7. Legs
Work around all sides of your legs, focusing behind the knees. Do 3 to 5 strokes, 8 to 10 times each, moving upward toward the groin.
8. Finish where you started
End back at your belly, pressing inward and taking 3 to 4 deep breaths on each side. This brings the whole practice full circle.
If you’re more of a visual learner, I totally get it. That’s why I created a video where you can see me do my full lymphatic massage routine for you. You can watch it here.
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Keep Learning and Caring for Your Body
See, that wasn’t too hard, right? Just a few minutes of loving on your body and you’re already helping your lymphatic system do its thing. It’s the little stuff we do over and over that really adds up.
If you give it a try, let me know how you’re working it into your routine. Do you do it after a shower? While you’re sipping tea? Maybe right before bed to wind down? Share your flow with us by tagging @bodylovebytal on Instagram. Oh, and don’t forget to grab your lavender body oil before you do!
If you liked this post, here are a few more blogs you may enjoy:
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