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MLD is a form of massage that assists the function of the lymph system, which is critical to the efficient functioning of the immune system. Lymph is a clear, colorless fluid that flows through the body in a system of vessels similar to those of the blood system. The lymph system is responsible for identifying, containing, and destroying disease-producing microorganisms in the body. Lymph flows much more slowly than blood. Manual Lymph Drainage uses light, slow, repetitive strokes specifically designed to boost the circulation of the lymphatic system, which facilitates the removal of excess water, wastes, toxins, and foreign substances from the body tissues. As it cleans the connective tissue of inflammatory materials and toxins it enhances the activity of the immune system, reduces pain, and lowers the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system.
Due to the nature of the lymph system and its role in the body, MLD can prove beneficial in the correction of numerous conditions, as well as being a useful tool in preventive health maintenance. It aids in the reduction in edemas and lymphedemas of various origins, detoxifying the body; regeneration of tissues including burns, wounds and wrinkles. It aids in the relief of numerous chronic and subacute inflammations, including sinusitis, bronchitis and otitis. It reduces the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain. It relieves extreme muscle tightness and constipation. Aids in deep relaxation for insomnia, stress, loss of vitality and loss of memory.
The session begins similarly to a Swedish massage in the intake and that the client undresses and lies on the table. MLD involves the use of subtle manual maneuvers to aid in the recirculation of the lymphatic flow. Specifically the therapist works with flat hands, using all the fingers to stimulate wave-like movements. The pressure applied is generally around five grams, or the equivalent weight of a nickel. Using this technique, trained therapists are able to detect the specific rhythm, direction, depth and quality of the lymph flow anywhere in the body. From there, they can use their hands to perform manual lymph mapping of the vessels to assess overall circulation and determine the best alternative pathways for draining body-fluid stagnation. A typical session lasts half an hour to 1 hour.
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