Supporting the Lymphatic System
Physical Release: Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
The Lymphatic system helps us remove waste and toxins from muscle tissues. A Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a gentle massage that focuses on different points in the body to reduce swelling in the lymphatic system and stimulate the draining of any toxins in the body. For my sensitives out there, you may feel this in your mental and emotional body as well. You may leave feeling a somatic release of stagnant emotions allowing you to feel more free. Remember to drink extra water after to assist the draining. It is recommended to drink 2-4 liters of water after the massage.
You can book a lymphatic drainage massage here at Indigo.
The Lymphatic System supports our immunity, blood circulation and our emotions. In some Folk Herbalism, many herbs for the lymphatic system are also related to our intuition. A clear lymphatic system can create open channels (physically and mentally!) so we can trust our intuition and allow our emotions to flow.
Our Lymphatic System supports the flow and movement of our circulatory system and immune system. It is a huge part of our wellbeing, both physically and mentally. In many Herbal Practices the Lymphatic System relates to the element of water. And when we think of water, we want it to be clear, moving steadily and luminescent. Any body systems connected to the element of water not only reflect our physical body but also relate directly to how we process and move our emotions. The Lymphatic System is a mirror to how we embrace the flow of emotions and our ability to express feelings of sadness and grief. A fluid moving lymphatic system relates to healthy coping mechanisms.
Lets discuss some psychosomatic ways to work with the Lymphatic System.
Spiritual Release: Grief Ceremony
As sentients, we are constantly changing, growing and transforming. When we surrender to this we find more flow. Part of this surrender we can celebrate in a Grief Ceremony. This allows us to release old thought patterns, past versions of the self and anything that once served us with joy and admiration. How is this related to the lymphatic system? When we hold onto parts of our past or things that are no longer for us it can cause blocks or stagnation psychosomatically and lend us to less flow in the lymphatic system. In order to flow into your present self we can release the past.
Create an altar to what you are releasing. Bring photos of your old self, items that belonged to that past and a bowl of water to honor the water spirits. Write a letter thanking these thoughts, patterns and versions of self for bringing you to where you are today. When you are done sink the letter into the bowl of water. Allow it to stay that way overnight. In the morning compost or bury the paper (even in a potted plant!). Allow yourself to feel any emotions that come through during this ceremony. Every emotion is valid.
Inner Release: Herbs
Working with herbs to clear the lymphatic system is a potent way to integrate the physical and emotional. Create a ritual around taking the herb. Dedicate 5 minutes a day to this practice. You can work with a tea, tincture or massage oil. Sit and be intentional about it and name how it makes you feel physically and mentally.
Some Herbs to work with:
Cleavers
Cleavers are rich in vitamins, minerals and flavonoids. Cleavers are sticky to the touch, they stick to congestions in the body and pull it out. Cleavers aid in the movement of lymph fluids and lessen swollen glands. Energetically, Cleavers may leave you feeling emotional as it can help release long held tears.
Red Clover
Red Clover is an alterative herb, meaning it stimulates the lymphatic system. Think of this herb as a little kick to any stagnation in the lymph nodes. Red Clover grows entangled with other herbs, this nature shows us how it is able to wrap itself around any debris in the lymphatic system and pull them out. Emotionally, red clover helps us feel more connected and accepted into our world.
Calendula
Calendula is mildly astringent, anti viral and anti microbial. This herb is known to stimulate and strengthen the immune system by aiding the filtration of the lymphatic system. Calendula has been used since ancient time as a remedy for Seasonal Affective Disorder and Depression. This flower allows us to receive more serotonin by aiding the immune system in the gut. Emotionally you will feel brighter and more joyful. It helps us develop immovable joy.
Written by: Liridona Duraku, an herbalist, intuitive and ancestral guide living in Brooklyn, NY. You can book a virtual reading or healing session with Liri through Indigo. She also offers mentorships on creating a spiritual practice all your own. Visit our website to learn more about her services and book a session with her!