What Is Lymphatic Drainage?

Learn How Lymphatic Therapies can help Heal Your Body FASTER!

Lymphatic drainage therapies are gaining traction in wellness circles

Thanks to increasing awareness about holistic health and self-care, more Women and Men are choosing Lymphatic drainage, lymph cleansing and lymphatic massage to super-charge their body’s own healing power. Typically used to enhance lymphatic flow, lymphatic drainage, lymphatic cleansing, and lymphatic massage therapies are especially beneficial for those with certain medical conditions like lymphedema (a chronic condition in which a buildup of lymph fluid causes swelling) as well as speeding recovery from surgeries, e.g., liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast lift (mastopexy), breast augmentation, face lift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and other plastic surgery. It is also a godsend for rapid recovery from all major body injuries, assisting the body in reducing swelling and greatly enhancing the positive flow of healing blood to the injury area.  We have seen positive results in people from 6-80 years of age.

These specialized therapies also offer a natural way to alleviate symptoms like bloating, puffiness (especially around the eyes), fatigue and water retention -- often linked to a sluggish lymphatic system. 

Activating your Lymphatic System also accelerates your body’s natural healing process and boosts your Immune System, so it should be your ‘Go To’ therapy to speed recovery.  We discuss the potential risks and benefits of lymphatic drainage and cleansing therapies below with the goal of elevating your knowledge and equipping you to make the best decision about your personal health.

What happens during lymphatic drainage or cleansing therapy? 

The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs, like lymph nodes and vessels. It collects extra fluid from the body's tissues, returns it to the bloodstream and helps remove waste and unhealthy cells. Additionally, it aids in absorbing fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the intestines, ensuring they enter the bloodstream effectively. In some cases, lymphatic treatments may be needed to stimulate this system, especially after surgeries like tummy-tuck or liposuction. 

"A full-body lymphatic drainage and lymph cleansing treatment uses specialized massage, gentle cupping and cup movement (Gua Sha) that promotes the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the entire body. These therapies use our highly advanced variable suction Cupping machines, human touch and a series of rhythmic and precise movements to stimulate the lymph nodes and activate the entire lymphatic system," says Li Ye “Rita” Rawlings, LMT (licensed massage therapist, licensed facial therapist), and owner of Red Cupping Clinic, in Redmond, WA.

"We apply gentle pressure and cupping (suction) movement to the skin in specific patterns, enhancing the natural flow of lymphatic fluid. These techniques help the lymph nodes release their fluid and return to normal size while encouraging the lymphatic vessels to contract and push lymph fluid (containing waste products, toxins and immune cells) through the body. The fluid waste is transferred to the kidneys and exits the body as urine, the more solid matter enters the liver and intestines to be released from the bowels." 

Lymphatic drainage benefits, both physical and mental 

"The main goal of every lymphatic drainage therapy is to help detoxify the body by moving lymph (the fluid that gets stuck between tissues) toward the lymph nodes, to improve your overall Immune System and to help you relax. This process allows the lymph to be filtered and cleared from your system, promoting your overall health," Rita explained. 

Lymphatic drainage can offer several benefits, including:

• Reduced swelling: Helps alleviate edema (aka swelling) and fluid retention by promoting lymph circulation.

• Enhanced immune function: Stimulates the immune system, potentially reducing the frequency of illnesses.

• Improved circulation: Increases blood flow and oxygenation in tissues.

"In addition to its physical benefits, lymphatic drainage promotes relaxation and stress relief," says Rita. "The calming nature of the massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a state of deep relaxation. This response lowers cortisol levels, which can contribute to stress and anxiety. The soothing experience can lead to a heightened sense of mindfulness and body awareness, further supporting the client's journey toward a healthier lifestyle."

BEFORE Lymphatic Therapy . . .

A photo of Rita from 2020, before she was doing regular Lymphatic Therapies on herself. Notice the blemishes and age lines.

And AFTER Lymphatic Therapy . . .

Recent photo (Circa: 2024) of Rita after regular Lymphatic Drainage treatments. Her face is completely clear and her age lines have disappeared.

How often should you get lymphatic treatments? 

The frequency of lymphatic drainage massages varies based on individual needs. 

"For optimal results, I usually recommend starting with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, especially if someone is dealing with specific issues like extreme swelling, post-surgical recovery or looking for a thorough detoxification," Rita recommends. "After that, once a month is a good maintenance routine. It's always a good idea to check with your doctor  before starting a regular regimen, especially if there are underlying health concerns."

What is Cupping and how does this compare with Lymphatic Therapy?

Cupping therapy and Gua Sha (rhythmic movement of the cup across the skin) is a form of traditional medicine that originated in China and West Asia.  People have practiced this method for thousands of years.  It uses suction cups on the skin to draw blood away from specific areas of the body to relieve conditions that cause pain and promote improved fluid flow to improve the body’s natural healing capabilities.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, Cupping therapies are used to ease symptoms of:

• Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis.

• Back pain, neck pain, knee pain and shoulder pain.

• Asthma and other breathing issues.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders like irritable bowel disease (IBD).

• Headaches and migraines.

• High blood pressure (hypertension).

At Red Cupping Clinic, in downtown Redmond, WA, Rita and her team have expanded the use of Cupping and Gua Sha therapies even further.  “We have helped people with a wide range of injuries, pain and other symptoms including Shoulder and Rotor Cuff issues like Frozen Shoulder, pinched nerves, back spasms and muscle pain, knee pain, foot pain and even running injuries like Pantar Fasciitis, “ says Rita.

She adds, “Gentle cupping and movement of the cup, which we call ‘Gua Sha’ is also wonderful for Lymphatic Therapies because its more effective and longer lasting than Lymphatic Massage alone.” Below, a 7-year old is getting Lymphatic Drainage (does not hurt) to help him recover faster from his yearly vaccines.

ABOVE: A 7-year old boy received lymphatic drainage therapy to speed his recovery from FLU and COVID shots.

“We have cup sizes small enough to work on your pinky finger or around your eyes and large enough for your back, bottom and even DD sized breasts.  Many women are experiencing significant breast pain relief before and during their periods.”

Can you do lymphatic drainage techniques yourself? 

“Yes, we offer several options and training for people to do some Lymphatic drainage at home through simple techniques. While you may need help reaching areas of your upper shoulders and back, these practices will help stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting circulation and reducing swelling,” says Rita.

Activities like swimming and deep breathing can also help you drain your lymphatic system, but Red Cupping Clinic recommends you come in first so we can help you understand the best treatments for your condition and then you can decide whether it makes sense to do them from home.

How to tell if lymphatic drainage massage is working

To determine if lymphatic drainage massages are effective for you, there are several signs to look out for. "One of the most noticeable changes is a reduction in swelling and puffiness. My patients have noticed immediate reduction of puffiness, losing fluid weight and tightening of the face, chest, stomach and legs,” Rita says. "Many of our patients notice that their skin appears healthier and more radiant after treatments, and some say their friends ask what they’re doing because they seem so much younger.”

Rita is also excited to report that her Fountain Life doctor recently told her, “Our full-body tests indicate your Immune System is equivalent to a 26-year-old, 18 years younger than your actual age.  What you’ve been doing for the past several years [mainly the lymphatic therapies] has resulted in probably one of the healthiest immune systems I’ve ever seen.”  A boosted immune system and increased energy are clear signs that the treatment is benefiting you. 

"It's important to pay attention to how your body responds over time. Like with me, regular Lymphatic therapy sessions can lead to cumulative benefits, including improved immunity and just overall health. If you notice these positive changes, it's a good indication that lymphatic drainage is working for you," explained Rita. 

The bottom line 

Lymphatic drainage and lymph cleansing have grown in popularity due to their ability to improve an individual's overall health by helping the lymphatic system work better. Whether done by a professional or using self-healing techniques at home, they can help reduce swelling, ease bloating, increase energy and more. 

Talking to a doctor or trained professional as well as gaining a better understanding of your body and its needs can help you figure out if lymphatic drainage is a good choice for you.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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