DOs and DON’Ts After Lymphatic Drainage Massage [17 Point Checklist]

Lymphatic drainage massage is a form of massage that boosts the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body.

Lymphatic drainage massage is now widely used as a form of spa treatment in skin care, detoxification, stress, jet lag and facial rejuvenation.

Yet, as the enchanting lymphatic drainage massage session concludes, the journey towards optimal healing has only just begun.

In this article, we delve into the realm of post-lymphatic drainage massage care, uncovering the vital DOs and DON’Ts after lymphatic drainage massage.

What To Do After Lymphatic Drainage Massage? [10 Important Things]

To maximize the benefits, make sure to do the below listed 10 things after a lymphatic drainage massage to make the positive effects last even longer.

1. Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is essential after the session as the massage makes the lymph move in your circulatory system, so when you hydrate after the massage, the momentum is continued that was achieved during the massage.

Moreover, this will also help to flush out any toxins or waste products.

After a lymphatic massage drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water per day is essential.

2. Eat a light meal

Keeping the inner motion even after the session is important, for this you should go easy with your digestive system and avoid overwhelming it with a heavy meal.

Eat a light meal and let the body enjoy internal work processing after a lymphatic drainage massage.

3. Rest and Relax

After a lymphatic drainage massage, it’s important to rest and relax. Avoid any strenuous activities or exercise for at least 24 hours after your session.

This will allow your body to heal and recover from the massage. Yet, just as drinking will help, some light exercise, yoga or a short walk can definitely help your body move and process lymph nodes more efficiently.

Though light exercise and flexibility are often suggested, everyone is different, so if you feel like sleeping, then sleep.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A balanced and nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods is key to good health which should be strictly followed after lymphatic drainage massage.

These foods provide essential nutrients that support the lymphatic system’s function and overall health.

5. Move and Exercise

Although rest is suggested after MLD, I suggest one should engage oneself in light to moderate physical activities such as walking, yoga, or swimming.

Gentle movement helps stimulate lymphatic circulation and promotes the elimination of waste products from the body.

6. Wear Loose Clothing

Wearing loose clothes after the massage will help to maintain the proper flow of lymphatic fluid and overall circulation within the body, thus promoting healing.

On the other hand, wearing tight clothes can restrict the lymph fluids and hinder the circulation gained during the massage.

7. Wear compression garments (if recommended)

If your therapist advises it, wear compression garments such as sleeves, stockings, or wraps to apply gentle pressure to the treated areas.

Compression garments can aid in reducing swelling and improving lymphatic flow.

8. Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques

Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques like meditation, diaphragmatic breathing, and pranayama like Anulom Vilom can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

Some yoga poses are equally relaxing like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend), Malasana (Garland Pose), Balasana (Child’s Pose), Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, Sukhasana (Easy Pose), Matsyasana (Fish Pose), Savasana (Corpse Pose).

9. Maintain Hydration

I suggest drinking plenty of fresh plain water to get the optimum benefit of this massage.

One can also focus on a more semi-solid diet and avoid dehydrating and oily spicy foods.

10. Follow up with your therapist

After your lymphatic drainage massage, it’s a good idea to follow up with your therapist.

She/He may recommend additional treatments or exercises to help maintain the benefits of your massage. So, being consistent is very important to get the most out of sessions.

Additionally, they can answer any questions or concerns you may have about your session.

What To Avoid After Lymphatic Drainage Massage? [7 Important Things]

After a lymphatic drainage massage, it’s important to take certain precautions to maximize the benefits of the treatment.

Below listed are 7 important things you should avoid post lymphatic drainage massage:

1. Avoid Vigorous activities

Strenuous activities can increase blood flow and lymphatic circulation, which may counteract the effects of the massage.

So, post Lymphatic drainage massage one should avoid engaging in rigorous physical activities, heavy lifting, or intense exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours after the massage.

2. Avoid Hot showers or baths

Heat is prone to dilate blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, which will increase swelling.

It’s best to avoid hot showers, baths, saunas, or hot tubs immediately after the massage. So, I recommend lukewarm or cool water baths.

3. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

Consumption of alcohol and caffeine at least for a few hours after the massage session is not recommended.

These products can dehydrate the body and hinder the lymphatic system’s ability to flush out toxins and waste from the body.

Avoiding these can let the lymphatic system work properly that was activated by the massage.

4. Don’t wear tight clothing or accessories

To promote optimal lymphatic circulation, avoid wearing tight clothing, jewelry, or accessories that restrict blood flow or put pressure on treated areas.

Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended to allow the body to heal and recover.

5. Avoid Intensive massage or deep tissue

While lymphatic drainage massage involves gentle, rhythmic movements, intense deep tissue massage or aggressive bodywork should be avoided immediately after.

This is to prevent excessive pressure or trauma to the tissues and ensure the lymphatic system functions optimally.

6. Avoid Smoking

Smoking impairs circulation and hinders the lymphatic system’s ability to remove toxins effectively.

If you smoke, it’s best to avoid smoking immediately after the massage to support the body’s healing process.

7. Avoid Overeating or heavy meals

After a lymphatic drainage massage, the body may be in a relaxed state, and a heavy meal can strain the digestive system. I recommend eating light, nutritious meals and avoid overeating to allow the body to focus on healing.

Remember to consult with a qualified massage therapist or healthcare professional for specific guidelines tailored to your individual needs and health condition.

Final thoughts:

The numerous benefits of lymphatic drainage massage in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions combined with eliminating toxins and reducing bloating have made it a popular treatment across the country. This is why lymphatic drainage is on the rise among the health and beauty conscious.

A person can use the lymphatic drainage massage technique to reduce swelling and improve circulation leading to boost overall well-being.

However, to make the positive effects last longer, it’s important to know what to do after a lymphatic massage.

Drinking plenty of water, resting and relaxing, avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and smoking, wearing loose clothing, and following up with your therapist are all important steps to take after a lymphatic drainage massage.

By following these tips, you can help to promote healing and maintain the benefits of your massage.