Lymphatic (also called Lymphatic Drainage Massage, or LDM) is a specialized modality that can assist with swelling, immune response, post-surgical recovery, as well as increasing relaxation.

Like rain water flowing along a watershed to small tributaries and then to a larger river or lake, lymph flows in our bodies along defined pathways.  From the body's tissues, lymph first enters  superficial lymph capillaries and passes through a series of increasingly-larger vessels, to lymph nodes where it is filtered, and eventually to large vessels in the trunk of the body which will eventually return it to the venous circulation.  

A lymphatic massage uses specific sequences and techniques that enhance the movement of lymph along these established pathways.  It is done without massage lotion on bare skin (underwear may be worn and you will always be draped for comfort).  The treatment starts as one lies face up, with gentle circular motions at major lymphatic sites near the collar bones and neck.  Next, the deep vessels of the abdomen are stimulated with guided breathwork and deeper pressure directed toward the navel.  Then the nodes of the axillary (armpit) and/or inguinal (groin) areas will be activated.  After "jumpstarting" these important sites, the remainder of the treatment consists of a series of circular motions that direct fluids toward the top of the limb and the center of the body.