Better Being Bodywork

Grateful, grateful, grateful

The LAST of my Debunking series 😮‍💨 if you've got a medical condition that youre interested in seeking MLD for, ask your doctor! A good MLD therapist will know the contraindications of the work, but some things are only NOT a contradiction if they are treated and controlled.

Lymphatic drainage changes fluid composition but not body composition. While decreased water retention MAY have a temporary slimming effect, MLD is not a standalone solution for weight loss.

In my opinion? MLD is for improving health, not promoring thinness.

Shame over cellulite is completely manufactured. Cellulite is normal and isn't indicative of overall health.

MLD can decrease the appearance slightly, so if its a cosmetic concern there's some ways to decrease how it looks. We all have things we want to change about our bodies, but don't let shame seep in where it doesn't belong.

The swelling that occurs when the lymph system is compromised isn't just water, its water with a whole bunch of other stuff. Catching lymphedema early (through education and regular screenings after lymph node removal or radiation) is super important to avoid irreversible tissue change.

If you've gotten nodes removed or have a history of lymphedema in your family, keep tabs on how your body feels (like if there is heaviness only in one area or clothes fit different on one side than the other significantly) and talk to a doctor or certified lymphedema Therapist if you notice changes!!

One system, so many functions! Ayurveda refers to the lymphatic system as "the water of life" because of all of the important functions it performs: nutrient circulation, immunity, digestion. Put some respect on its name, its not just a "sewage system"

Lymphedema is a condition in which parts of the body swell due to the inability of the lymphatic system to drain a certain area. Some people are born with this condition, others develop it after an event like lymph node removal or radiation. Treatment for both types of lymphedema are the same: compression, MLD, exercise and skin care.

Noticing a swollen lymph node isn't immediate cause for alarm! It could just be a sign the system is working and the swelling will decrease over time. It could also just be a superficial node thats healthy and can be felt through the skin.

If you notice a swollen node, track it for a week or two. If the swelling gets worse or is accompanied by pain or other physical symptoms, then its a good idea to get it checked out.

I get this question from time to time. There is no evidence to suggest that MLD spreads cancer and is in fact recommended for some living with or in treatment for cancer. Always check with your doc first, of course.

The quoted text comes from page 59 of Klose Training's CLT manual. The rest of the sourcing for this series can be found on my full blog post listed in my bio.

Day 1 of breaking down the most misunderstood aspects of the lymphatic system

Our final Healer's Circle of 2025, and final in this format, is coming up in a couple weeks.

We'll be looking back at the last year of our practices and celebrating both our successes and the successes of our clients.

Come chill with us, nourish your practice and give yourself some love ❤️

Link to register for free in the bio