In my last newsletter, I spoke about the importance of the lymphatic system and how a poorly operating system can cause major diseases like cancer.
A poor lymphatic system can also be the reason one struggles to lose weight.
Allergies, sinus, and other immune related diseases, usually get treated with conventional medicine, I am not against this, if it works, use it. But, first make sure your lymphatic system is working well, as it’s this system which boosts immunity and prevents or heals the above related conditions.
In cases of cancer, if doctors suggest the removal of lymph nodes, I strongly suggest second and third opinions. Removing lymph nodes if not necessary, can cause more serious problems in the future. Sometimes cancer cells may have already passed through those nodes to other parts of the body, so removal may not be necessary.
Our body has different parts that contain lymph nodes responsible for removing and cleansing deadly toxins.
It’s a common practice to have one’s tonsils removed during a severe bout of flu and cold. Try never to do that if it can be avoided. Your tonsils have an extremely important role to play in your lymphatic system, so goes the same for an enlarged spleen. Many say these parts of the body don’t have roles to play, but they do.
The lymphatic system, a system of lymph fluid and lymph nodes, is vital for
- Elimination of toxins. The lymphatic system can be aptly described as the garbage disposal of the body and is responsible for filtering and eliminating toxins.
- The immune system. The lymph nodes house a high concentration of white blood cells that increase when the body is fighting off illness or infection.
- Weight loss and weight management. Toxicity is a huge part of the weight loss puzzle. If you don’t support your lymph system, you will have even more trouble losing weight and gaining muscle tone.
The most important thing to remember about the lymphatic system is that it relies on our movement. Unlike the cardiovascular system with the heart automatically pumping fluid, the lymph system relies on our body movements as a pump.
This means that exercise, even a simple walk, can stimulate your system to work well and drain toxins out from the body.
The older we get, or even if we are sick or bed ridden, we must make attempts to walk or move so we can help the lymphatic system work.
While all movement engages the lymphatic system, walking is an accessible exercise that everyone can fit into their daily routine. If you don’t have the opportunity to walk around outside, take occasional breaks to simply walk in place.
Deep Breathing
You know how I emphasize on ‘Vitamin O’ being the most important vitamin we need. Well the lymphatic system needs it too. The more you breath, the deeper you breathe, try breathing from your diaphragm, all this helps you stimulate this amazing system.
Yoga
In the deeply restorative practice of Yin Yoga, poses are held for at least 3 minutes, and up to 10 minutes. The pressure of your own body in these prolonged holds can help release areas of lymphatic congestion. Additionally, many of the poses reverse the flow of gravity and twist the body, aiding in lymphatic flow. You can also focus on poses that stretch the hips, since the groin area contains a concentration of lymph nodes.
Legs Up Against The Wall
In this pretty self-explanatory yoga pose, lymphatic circulation in the lower body is maximized. By reversing the flow of gravity in your legs, you circulate the lymphatic fluid and encourage the elimination of toxins.
Dry Brushing
The lymphatic system is pretty close to the surface of the skin. It doesn’t take deep pressure to help release lymphatic congestion, which is why dry brushing your skin is so helpful. This process requires just a few minutes before your shower and stimulates lymphatic flow. You simply brush your body with a stiff, dry brush and this activates the lymphatic system.
Sitting
Have you heard of the modern epidemic called “Sitting Disease?” Studies show that prolonged periods of sitting correlate to an increase in degenerative disease. Research shows that exercise doesn’t reduce the risk of sitting… the only way to reduce the risk is to not sit as much.
Perhaps one factor influencing the correlation between sitting and disease is lymphatic function. Movement engages lymphatic flow, but sitting creates stagnation of lymphatic fluid. Remember, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump so you have to be the pump!
Hot And Cold Showers
Alternating between hot and cold showers stimulate the system to work better.
Lymphatic Massage
These are professional massages that are done to help cleanse the system.
Important: Major lymph nodes are situated under the arms, where the breast connects to the armpits and the inner groin areas along the thighs. We need to keep these nodes open for breathing and release of toxins through sweat.
Don’t use antiperspirants, that block these nodes to prevent one from sweating.
Avoid wearing under wire bras for a long time as these block the nodes.
Avoid tight underwear for long periods of time.
Select apparel like cotton that allows the skin to breathe and the body to naturally let go of toxins through sweat.
Do all of this to improve your own immunity without the dependency on heavy medication and drugs. Your body is designed to heal itself, it has the powerful inbuilt mechanism to do so. Start your own healing, and the sicker you may be, the more requirement for helping your lymphatic system and immunity.
From a nutritional aspect, waking up to a glass of warm water with freshly squeezed lemon does wonders for your lymphatic system.
Empower your body’s natural defence system by nurturing your lymphatic system. Incorporate these practical tips into your daily routine to optimize your immunity and overall well-being. Remember, your body is designed to heal itself. Take charge of your health and unleash your innate healing potential! For personalised guidance on enhancing your immunity, connect with our experts through GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here. Start your journey towards optimal health today!
#BeTheForce
To anyone reading this article, please do what Todd suggests. At least give it a go. The benefits will outweigh any hardships or difficulties you can foresee. Cold Showers used to be a staple of British and Irish boarding schools. Hated by kids, but it toughened them up. My Dad still takes a daily cold shower.
The only slight divergence for me, would be the use of a plunge pool, instead. I feel the cold shower can sometimes be like taking a bandage off, slowly. With the plunge pool(use a bath, if you don’t have one), it takes a moment of courage and you get all body coverage. The burst of energy…wow, better than an expresso.