French Girl Guide to Lymphatic Drainage Massage
The lymphatic system, responsible for fluid balance and immune defense, can be stressed by summer heat and alcohol, leading to puffiness. Tehani Leprieur, founder of Atelier du Drainage Lymphatique in Paris, recommends low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, cycling, stretching, and yoga to stimulate lymph flow. Headstands are especially beneficial for experienced yogis. Deep abdominal breathing for five minutes daily helps pump lymph from the abdomen. Avoid ultraprocessed foods, full-fat dairy, and added sugars; instead eat berries, apples, lean proteins, spinach, kale, and omega-3s. Intermittent fasting combined with resistance training may reduce inflammation, per a 2021 study. Dry brushing with upward strokes boosts circulation and drainage. Self-massage with hands or gua sha tools can be done three to four times weekly.
Key facts
- Lymphatic system lacks a pump and relies on movement.
- Heat and alcohol negatively affect lymphatic function.
- Low-impact cardio and stretching are best for lymph flow.
- Headstands aid lymphatic drainage.
- Deep abdominal breathing for five minutes daily helps.
- Ultraprocessed foods, full-fat dairy, added sugars cause inflammation.
- Antioxidant-rich foods support fluid balance.
- Intermittent fasting may reduce inflammatory markers.
Entities
Institutions
- Academy of Lymphatic Studies
- Atelier du Drainage Lymphatique
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
- University of Miami Health System Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
- Vogue
Locations
- Paris
- France