Lymph is the nearly colorless liquid inside and outside each cell in your body.  Its composition is very similar to blood without the red blood cells.  Lymph seeps through capillary walls to fill tissue spaces. The lymphatic system’s functions include filtering out disease-causing organisms and manufacturing white blood cells (the cells that form antibodies that fight disease). 

Besides lymph, the system includes lymphatic capillaries and larger vessels, lymph nodes (or glands), and lymph-containing organs like the spleen and the tonsils.  The lymph nodes are small bean-shaped, gland-like bodies along the paths of the lymphatic vessel.  They filter out toxins, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.

The vessels of the lymphatic system closely follow the pathways of the circulatory system.  Unlike blood, lymph flows without the assistance of any pump, but the vessels do have valves that prevent backflow.  Normally, lymph is moved by the pressure of breathing, muscular activity and pressure from adjacent blood vessels.

In addition to cleansing body fluids, the lymphatic system is important in the digestion of fats and the transport of nutrients and wastes.  It also preserves the fluid balance throughout the body.

We generally become aware of the lymphatic system when lymph nodes become swollen, especially in the neck, groin, arm pits or behind the knees - a sign of infection or over activity. Other signs that our lymph system is sluggish include fatigue, constipation, and various chronic complaints like headaches, water retention, allergies, lupus, asthma, diarrhea, and arthritis to name a few.

Maintaining balance in the autonomic (spontaneous) nervous system is necessary for the body to be able to heal itself.  Part of this system calls us into action; the other part tells us to relax and sleep.  When this system is out of balance, the body develops a weakened immune system which leads to chronic conditions due to the cells’ inability to eliminate waste.

The proper function of your lymphatic system is vital to good health.  Because the lymph is not circulated through the action of the heart, exercise and massage are beneficial ways to maintain a healthy flow and enhance wellbeing.

In this way, your regular massage sessions promote detoxification and encourage the regenerative and cleansing capabilities of the body.  Help keep your lymphatic system functioning properly with exercise and, of course, with regular massage!