We are still talking about the lymph because it is so important to keep us healthy.
The lymphatic system is a system made up of glands, lymph nodes, the spleen, thymus gland and tonsils. It bathes our body’s cells and carries the body’s cellular sewage away from the tissues to the blood, where it can be filtered by two of the body’s main detoxification organs; the liver and kidneys.
11 ways to get your lymph flowing smoothly:
1. Breathe deeply. Our bodies have three times more lymph fluid than blood, but no organ to pump it. Your lymph system relies on the pumping action of deep breathing to help it transport toxins into the blood.
2. Get moving. Exercise also ensures the lymph system flows properly.
3. Drink plenty of water. Without adequate water, lymph fluid cannot flow properly. To help ensure the water is readily absorbed by your cells, add fresh lemon juice or oxygen to the water.
4. Forget the soda, trash the neon-coloured sports drinks and drop the fruit “juices” that are more sugar than fruit.
5. Eat more raw fruit on an empty stomach. The enzymes and acids in fruit are powerful lymph cleansers. Eat them on an empty stomach for best digestion and maximum lymph-cleansing benefits.
6. Eat plenty of green vegetables to get adequate chlorophyll to help purify your blood and lymph.
7. Eat raw, unsalted nuts and seeds to power up your lymph with adequate fatty acids.
8. Add a few lymph-boosting herbal teas to your day. Avoid using herbs while pregnant or lactating and avoid long-term use of any herb without first consulting a qualified professional.
9. Dry skin brush before showering. Brush your dry skin in circular motions upward from the feet to the torso and from the fingers to the chest.
10. Alternate hot and cold showers for several minutes. The heat dilates the blood vessels and the cold causes them to contract. Avoid this type of therapy if you have a heart or blood pressure condition or if you are pregnant.
11. Get a gentle massage. Studies show that a gentle massage can push 78% of stagnant lymph back into circulation.
For more information, contact Lizél Britz at 072 243 7707.
