Self-Care: Lymphatic Massage

Staying in good shape requires a commitment to regular self care. Sometimes it’s a chore, like flossing teeth, regular check-ups, and – for me – jogging. Other self care is downright pleasurable, like the lymphatic drainage massage I enjoyed yesterday. It was so relaxing—therefore good for my mental health—and also helped to detoxify my body.

According to the Upledger Institute®, “the lymphatic system is critical to our body’s ability to drain stagnant fluids, detoxify, regenerate tissues, filter out toxins and foreign substances, and maintain a healthy immune system.”

I certainly feel refreshed today, light as though my body isn’t dragging around a lot of excess baggage. Since my lymph system was cleansed with gentle, purposeful massage strokes, which cleared the sludge from my system, I’m not surprised at this feeling.

I use lymphatic drainage massage as a general tonic, but it is extremely helpful in cases of swelling and post-surgery. You can learn more here.

Relax!

August is here, the month of relaxation. While we don’t live in France where many people take the month off, we can adopt a less stressful attitude, and this starts with regular relaxation. It’s not slacking—no—this is an important activity for your health.

According to the Mayo Clinic, relaxation techniques help to lower blood pressure, slow heart beat, increase blood flow to tissues, and reduce muscle tension. Other benefits include improved immune system response, more complete healing, better sleep, and usually a happier life.

Sitting in front of the TV doesn’t count though. Dr. Weil’s website describes a very effective progressive relaxation exercise. There are a variety of relaxation therapies, including the use of music and aromas. My mom gave me a bottle of essential oils for “Peace and Calming.” It’s amazing how effective taking the time to smell a soothing fragrance can be! Most people find being in nature to be soothing, like fishing or a walk in the woods.

Like all other health habits, relaxation is best practiced regularly. Experiment and find the techniques that work best for you.

Sleep and Health

It’s been two weeks since my last blog post. I figured that I could use the extra time—and sleep—this time of the year, and you could, too. With the days so short and additional tasks required by the holidays, a good night’s sleep has been just what I need to keep up. Adequate sleep is important throughout the year, but long nights beckon and evoke the health benefits of extra zzz’s.

A little research reveals that good slumber has many health benefits. An article from Shape Magazine notes several health problems, including increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and immune system weakness that correspond to lack of sleep. http://women.webmd.com/features/your-new-1-stay-healthy-mission-get-more-sleep

The Washington Post reports that lack of sleep is linked to poor health outcomes in several studies, including increased risk of obesity and cancer. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/10/08/AR2005100801405.html . One study showed that poor sleep adds to inflammation in the body, which means that a full night’s rest is particularly important when you are healing.

With all the extra germs that seem to surface this time of the year, it helps to pay extra attention to your immune system. This article from WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/flu-prevention-top-ways-to-avoid/flu-hygiene-healthy-habits, gives four tips to boost your immune system.
1) Eat vegetables
2) Exercise regularly
3) Get plenty of sleep
4) Reduce stress

Healing of any type requires the body’s resources. When you’re awake, these resources are applied to activity. When you’re asleep, your immune system can devote itself to the healing without interruption.

Make yourself as comfortable as possible with the support of pillows, warmth, and whatever else you need so your rest can be complete. Snuggle up and get a few extra winks, for good health.