What does the lymphatic system of the body have to do with health, wellness, and optimal aging? Similar to the circulatory system, AKA the blood vessels, arteries, and veins that carry our blood supply, the lymphatic system is also distributed all throughout the body in the form of long chains of vessels. However, the lymphatic system does not transport blood and does not have an intrinsic pumping system like the heart. Instead, the lymphatic system relies on muscle contractions or manual stimulation of the skin to move throughout the body. Lymphatic fluid is a colorless liquid that contains waste products from our cells or toxins/pollutants from the environment. Lymph nodes are concentrated clusters of immune cells, similar to a highway checkpoint or toll booth. Here the immune system filters the lymph for potentially dangerous bacteria, viruses, cellular waste, toxins, etc. to protect the body.
The importance an efficient lymphatic system for optimal wellness is hopefully now apparent. Since the lymphatic system does not have an intrinsic pumping system like the heart and relies on muscle contractions, the importance of movement and exercise cannot be understated. Alternatively, lymphatic massage or dry brushing can also move lymph by physically pushing lymph through its vessels.
Dry brushing is an ancient technique and has evidence of being used by ancient Egyptians, Indians, and Chinese. Dry brushing uses a soft bristled brush of natural fibers to gently brush against the skin. The lymphatic system does not require much pressure, which is also why lymphatic massage tends to be much lighter than traditional massage techniques. Since the lymphatic system moves in one direction to the heart, the brush strokes start from the furthest end of the limbs and move towards the heart. Lymph nodes are concentrated in the groin creases, armpits, and neck therefore extra attention should be dedicated to these areas.
Lymphatic stimulating botanicals and herbs can increase the effectiveness of dry brushing. These herbal extracts are concentrated and mixed with an oil to create a lymph moving oil. Herbs such as cleavers, pipsissewa, dandelion, red clover, and yellow dock are well-known lymphatic stimulating herbs. Apply the lymph oil to the brush tips or directly on the skin in a thin layer to incorporate these healing herbs into your dry brushing routine. The aromatic effect of the herbs can promote relaxation which also makes them a wonderful tool for self-care.
How is dry brushing used for aesthetics? Quite simply, stagnant cellular waste products or toxins cause inflammation and therefore increases aging of the skin. Dry brushing, in combination with regular exercise, eating well, and good hydration levels, assists in detoxifying these harmful compounds. Dry brushing is typically not used on the face, however facial guasha accomplishes the same mechanism of dry brushing for moving the lymph of the facial tissues. Dry brushing combined with a guasha facial is offered at Ageless Beauty Rx.