5 Ways to Boost Lymphatic Flow (and Why!)

But first, what’s the lymphatic system?

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that helps to remove waste and move white blood cells around the body. 

It is so closely linked to the immune system that we cannot expect our immune systems to work without healthy lymphatic flow. Here’s how you can support that:

1️⃣ Movement

Movement activates the skeletal muscles, which is one of the best ways to boost lymphatic flow. Any movement works (a gentle walk, stretching, jumping on a trampoline).   

2️⃣ Deep Breathing

Deep belly breathing acts as a natural pump for the lymphatic system by activating the diaphragm and changing the pressure in the abdomen. 

3️⃣ Dry Skin Brush

Using a natural bristle brush, brush in gentle, circular motions toward your heart before showering to encourage lymphatic flow. 

4️⃣ Contrast Hot-Cold Showers

A perfect follow-up to the dry skin brush, alternating 30-second bursts of cold during your hot shower stimulates lymphatic flow. 

5️⃣ Wear Loose Clothing

Especially around the armpits or groin, where we have a concentration of lymph nodes, tight clothes can restrict the flow. 

Our bodies are wise. We do not need to do all of these things every day, but our lymphatic system does depend on us to keep things moving!

Rachel Oppitz, ND