I write and talk a lot about yin yoga and how it deeply supports your body’s natural healing systems. I like the science behind things and whilst doing my face massage certification I delved a little bit deeper into the lymphatic system and how it helps our body to stay healthy.
Why Do Germans Focus On The Lymphatic System?
I have been around lymphatic drainage massage since I was a child, but never paid it much attention until recently. Back in Germany, lymphatic drainage massages are very, very popular. In fact, holistic health practices are deeply valued, and lymphatic drainage fits this perfectly. Lymphatic drainage is widely used in medical and physiotherapy clinics as well as wellness centres to reduce swelling, support recovery after surgery, and promote a feeling of wellbeing. Germans appreciate its stress-reducing and health-boosting effects, aligning with their emphasis on disease and unease prevention. Additionally, its integration into both traditional medicine and natural therapies makes it a trusted and accessible treatment in the country, one that is often paid for by the health insurances.
What Is The Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that work together to:
Remove waste, toxins, and excess fluid from your body.
Carry white blood cells (lymphocytes) that fight infections.
Maintain fluid balance and support digestion by transporting fats and nutrients.
A well functioning lymphatic system is crucial for homeostasis, your body’s ability to stay balanced and healthy. Poor lymph flow can lead to swelling, sluggishness, and a weakened immune response.
A Brief History Of Lymphatic System Knowledge
The lymphatic system has fascinated scientists for centuries. They became interested in the lymphatic system as they sought to understand how the body defends itself and heals. Early observations of swelling, infections, and the body’s recovery from illness likely led them to study how fluids move through a body. Ancient Egyptians noted the importance of fluids in embalming, while Greeks like Hippocrates explored bodily "humours" affecting health. The visible swelling of lymph nodes during illness and their role in fighting disease sparked curiosity about their function. Over time, dissection and medical study revealed the intricate network of lymph vessels and nodes. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks were among the first to study the lymphatic system, but it wasn’t until the 17th and 18th centuries that detailed knowledge began to emerge. Scientists like Andreas Vesalius and Paolo Mascagni made significant contributions by mapping the lymphatic vessels. Modern imaging techniques have since transformed our understanding, enabling diagnosis and treatment of lymph-related issues - and the emergence of fighting disease by stimulating the lymphatic system.
And there is it: stimulating the lymphatic system to aid health and wellbeing, this is where it becomes fascinating!
Let's go back to yin yoga.
Yin Yoga & Your Lymphatic System
One of yin yoga's unique benefits lies in how it interacts with the lymphatic system.
As yin yoga involves holding poses for several minutes, gently stretching and compressing tissues, you create a gentle pumping effect that encourages lymph to flow better through its vessels and nodes. If you ever have a lymphatic drainage massage you will feel the same: gentle activation of the lymph nodes and paths through pumping, pressing and stroking.
This gentle movement helps your lymphs carry toxins to be removed from the body (lymphatic fluid gets reabsorbed into the bloodstream, then expelled via your body's waste system, ie the kidneys and gut).
Better lymph flow can relieve puffiness or water retention.
Yin yoga also activates the parasympathetic nervous system (your “rest and digest” mode), which supports lymphatic function and recovery. This is important for homeostasis. Homeostasis is your body's ability to stay in balance. It is a self-regulating process that allows you to maintain a stable internal environment whatever is going on externally. Homeostasis affects every organ system in your body and is key for your health and wellbeing.
When your lymphatic system and nervous system are in harmony, you:
Manage stress better.
Heal and repair faster.
Stay energised and focused.
Yin yoga’s slow practice regulates your nervous system by calming the fight-or-flight response. This promotes better digestion, deeper sleep, and a stronger immune system.
Who Benefits Most?
Yin yoga can benefit almost everyone, but it is especially helpful for:
People with stress or anxiety.
Those recovering from illness or surgery.
Anyone seeking relaxation and gentle movement.
*If you have severe injuries or conditions affecting lymph flow, consult a doctor before starting.
Yin yoga connects the body and mind while supporting your lymphatic and nervous systems. By improving lymph flow, encouraging relaxation, and restoring balance (homeostasis), yin yoga can play a key role in your overall wellbeing.
Interesting? Ask me any question or find out how to practice, email info@unwindyogastudio.com
Sandra x
Sources:
(1) Cueni LN, Detmar M. The lymphatic system in health and disease. Lymphat Res Biol. 2008;6(3-4):109-22. doi: 10.1089/lrb.2008.1008. PMID: 19093783; PMCID: PMC3572233.
(2) Streeter CC, Gerbarg PL, Saper RB, Ciraulo DA, Brown RP. Effects of yoga on the autonomic nervous system, gamma-aminobutyric-acid, and allostasis in epilepsy, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Med Hypotheses. 2012 May;78(5):571-9. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2012.01.021. Epub 2012 Feb 24. PMID: 22365651.
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