Boosting Wellness During Cold and Flu Season: The Role of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Learn how a lymphatic drainage massage may help you prevent and fight off infections.
First, you get a little tickle in your throat. Then, your ear starts to ache. And oh no, are you developing a cough?
Next, that dreaded moment of realization sets in. It’s official: You’re sick.
In Alaska, cold and flu season usually peaks between December and February, following the same patterns as the rest of the Northern Hemisphere.
And once those sniffles, aches and pains, congestion, headache, and exhaustion set in, all you want is to start feeling better.
That’s where a lymphatic drainage massage from Anchorage Massage Therapies comes in.
A lymphatic drainage massage gets your body’s lymphatic system moving, which plays a role in immune function and may support overall wellness during cold and flu season.
At Anchorage Massage Therapies, we’re here for you, even when you’re not feeling well.
That’s why today’s blog explores how lymphatic drainage massage can ease your cold and flu symptoms. Let’s dive in!
Image courtesy of SGUL lymres @ Creative Commons
Understanding the Lymphatic System
Did you know that your body has 11 major systems? These include the muscular system, the reproductive system, the skeletal system, and the lymphatic system — just to name a few.
The lymphatic system is a crucial part of the immune and circulatory systems of the body.
Its main functions include:
Maintaining fluid levels in our bodies
Absorbing digestive tract fats
Protecting our bodies from infection
It comprises a network of vessels, lymph nodes, and organs that work together to move lymph through your body.
Lymph is a clear fluid that transports white blood cells to areas needing protection. It also helps carry waste products away from tissues, supporting the body’s natural process of maintaining balance. Lymph also moves water, proteins, and fats throughout your body, distributing them in a way that helps boost your health.
A well-functioning lymphatic system supports overall immune health, which is especially beneficial during stressful holiday travel. Maintaining a healthy immune system can help your body defend against infections like colds and flu.
What Is A Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
A lymphatic drainage massage supports the movement of lymph fluid, which plays a role in your body’s natural processes of maintaining wellness and balance.
Your Anchorage massage therapist performs slow, rhythmic strokes to encourage lymphatic flow, usually starting with your back and neck and then working down to your legs and feet.
Your massage therapist also gently massages your stomach, upper chest, arms, face, and head, gently moving the lymph throughout your body.
Lymphatic drainage massage differs from other types of massage because the goal is to encourage lymphatic flow rather than working to relieve muscle tension or pain.
At Anchorage Massage Therapies, our licensed massage therapists are trained in lymphatic drainage techniques designed to promote relaxation and support your body's natural functions. Many clients have shared positive feedback, noting a sense of deep relaxation and overall well-being following their sessions.
By supporting the body’s lymphatic flow, lymphatic drainage massage may help you maintain a sense of well-being during cold and flu season, providing a natural way to promote overall comfort.
How Lymphatic Drainage Massage When Sick Can Help
Lymphatic drainage massage can be particularly beneficial during cold and flu season, as it may help boost immune function by promoting efficient lymphatic flow.
A healthy immune system helps to fight off any potential viruses or bacteria that could cause an illness, shorten an illness if you do get sick, and help ease symptoms that often come with colds and flu.
Here are three ways lymphatic drainage massage may benefit you during cold and flu season.
1. Lymphatic Drainage Massage May Help Prevent Sickness
Many people incorporate lymphatic drainage massage into their wellness routine to help keep their immune systems strong, which may help reduce the likelihood of illness.
Let’s look at how the flow of lymph works to protect you. It’s pretty fascinating! Lymph contains lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that play an important role in the body's immune response by helping to fight infections.
Here’s how the lymphocytes spring into action when they sense a threat to your immune system.
When the lymphatic system detects a threat to your immune system, it works overtime to transport these lymphocytes to the affected area.
Once the lymphocytes reach the area, they recognize and bind to pathogens and mark them for destruction by releasing antibodies. Yep, lymphocytes are tough guys!
The lymphocytes also become memory cells and teach your immune system how to fight off the threat if you reencounter the same illness. Wow!
While lymphatic drainage massage supports the flow of lymph and lymphocytes throughout the body, it’s important to note that it works alongside your body’s natural processes to maintain overall wellness.
2. Lymphatic Drainage Massage May Support Recovery by Promoting Relaxation
We’ve all had that cold that completely wipes us out. Even after the worst symptoms pass, lingering fatigue can make it hard to bounce back.
Lymphatic drainage massage is known for its gentle, rhythmic movements, which activate the parasympathetic nervous system—your body’s “rest and restore” mode. This deep relaxation response may help ease post-illness fatigue and support your body’s natural recovery process.
Since stress can impact immune function, relaxation is an important part of overall wellness. Many clients say they feel refreshed and re-energized after a session, making lymphatic drainage massage a great way to reset after feeling under the weather.
3. Lymphatic Drainage Massage May Help Reduce Congestion and Discomfort
Cold and flu often come with swelling and congestion, especially in the head and neck.
Many of our clients find that gentle lymphatic drainage techniques help relieve discomfort from seasonal congestion and fluid retention, offering a soothing effect during cold and flu season.
Mae Murakami, a physical therapist at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, says lymphatic drainage “can be a powerful tool for people whose lymphatic system is compromised from surgery, illness or injury.” [1]
However, it’s important to note that lymphatic drainage techniques may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as heart conditions, kidney problems, or cellulitis. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
When Should I Get a Lymphatic Drainage Massage?
Some of our Anchorage massage clients make lymphatic drainage massage part of their regular wellness routine, especially when dealing with seasonal changes or sinus discomfort. They say it helps them feel clearer and more refreshed.
Others often book a lymphatic drainage massage appointment before or after a flight to avoid getting sick due to air travel.
If you’re feeling unwell, Anchorage Massage Therapies recommends waiting until your symptoms improve before booking an appointment. For your comfort and the well-being of our staff and other clients, we ask that you reschedule if you're actively experiencing symptoms of illness.
Otherwise, we empower our clients to make health decisions about whether they are well enough to leave the house.
Some clients choose to get a referral from their doctor for lymphatic drainage massage, as certain insurance providers may offer coverage. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm eligibility.
If you have any questions before your appointment, email us. We’re always here to help.
Adding Lymphatic Drainage Massage to Your Wellness Routine
Integrating lymphatic drainage massage into a holistic health practice, especially during the cold and flu season, offers a robust approach to wellness, especially for Alaska residents.
Other holistic remedies to ensure your immune system is performing at its best include:
Get Enough Vitamin D
Vitamin D comes from sunlight, which is largely absent this time of year (to say the least!) Adding vitamin D supplements to your wellness plan can increase your immune system function.
Get Regular Exercise
Exercise is another critical factor in keeping your immune system in tip-top shape. Regular, moderate exercise promotes the regeneration of immune cells, aids in preventing bacterial growth, and offers improved circulation and stress reduction.
Manage Your Stress Levels
Taking care of your mental health this time of year is also essential.
Too much stress can decrease your immunity, making you prone to getting sick. Lymphatic drainage massage helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can help relieve stress.
Emphasizing the interconnectedness of body systems during the cold and flu season provides a comprehensive strategy for health, balancing both your body and mind for ultimate well-being.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage Starts Here
Now you know how a lymphatic drainage massage from Anchorage Massage Therapies can be a valuable part of your self-care routine during cold and flu season.
From preventing illness in the first place to reducing the duration during which you are sick to relieving uncomfortable swelling and congestion, lymphatic drainage massage is a beneficial treatment to keep your immune system functioning at its best.
Now, get out there and have a wonderful holiday season, and schedule an appointment after your travels to secure a relaxing holiday reset with one of our lymphatic drainage massage therapists.
We’ve got you, Anchorage.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Lymphatic drainage massage may be beneficial for some individuals, but it is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical conditions. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or concerns. Results may vary from person to person.
