What Does Your Lymphatic System Do?

Everyone is exposed to toxins daily - whether it be pollution in the air, foods we eat, environmental causes, and more. Your lymphatic system is in charge of removing these toxins and waste by transporting lymph throughout your tissues and organs. Lymph is a clear fluid containing white blood cells that circulates through the body via the lymphatic system to help your body fight infections. Activating your lymph flow by doing a lymphatic massage helps to boost your immune system and overall health. When the fluid is stagnant, toxins build up in your body and can cause you to feel sluggish, achy or susceptible to colds. If you're feeling any of these symptoms - it's probably time to try a lymphatic drainage massage!

What is a Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

A lymphatic drainage massage is a form of gentle massage that stimulates the movement of lymph to relieve swelling and improve overall health. It uses very light pressure and long strokes to move the fluids and direct it to organs that can properly remove it. The benefits include: 

• Reduce stress & fatigue
• Boost digestion
• Improve cellulite, scarring and stretch marks
• Fight off infections & flu
• Improve muscle tone
• Reduce water retention

How to Do it At-Home

There are many spas and wellness centers that offer in-depth lymphatic drainage massages. Another alternative for an at home spa experience is to add dry brushing your routine. The repetitive motion of exfoliating and massaging works to stimulate the lymphatic system while exfoliating dry, winter skin. Doing this self-love practice in combination with coconut oil helps to lock in moisture and nourish your body even further. Check out the 4 steps to get you started dry brushing today:

Step 1: We recommend dry brushing in the morning. Before dry brushing, apply Conscious Coconut Oil from head to toe. If you're at home, your CoCo tube will have you covered. If you're traveling or on-the-go, one individual packet from your 'Mindful Mini Pouch' will do the trick! Using Conscious Coconut Oil not only helps to diminish the appearance of cellulite, but also helps to keep your skin moisturized and radiant

Step 2: Using your Conscious Coconut Dry Brush, start at your feet and brush upward towards the heart. The chest area is where the lymph system drains so be sure to brush gently here and try to avoid other sensitive areas of the skin such as your face and neck.

Step 3: When you start on your arms, begin at the hands and work upward. Use firm, small upward strokes or work in a circular motion. For the stomach, work in a clockwise pattern to mimic the direction of digestion. Harsh exfoliation is never the point; be sure not to press too hard.

Step 4: Dedicate at least three to five minutes to brushing, adding time as your skin adapts if you'd like. Showering after dry brushing will help to rinse away dead skin cells and impurities, while also allowing your pores to release toxins. After you shower, reapply Conscious Coconut Oil from head to toe to lock in moisture and feed your skin essential vitamins and nutrients. Repeat the process 2-3 times each week and your skin will be glowing in no time!