What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a relaxing detox that applies a very light pressure massage over the skin and does not go deep into any muscle tissue.
Developed by Emil and Estrid Vodder in the 1930s, MLD is used to stimulate the lymphatic system to boost immunity, detoxify the body, heal damaged tissues, and even aid in mental clarity by moving the lymphatic fluid. This modality flushes out cellular debris, excess water, toxins, and brings fresh white blood cells to areas in need.
The Dr. Vodder method does not cure, but is highly beneficial for general wellness, and helps clients with the following ailments:
depression and anxiety
allergies
arthritis and inflammatory conditions
skin complications
digestive disorders
hormone balancing and menopause
heavy metal toxicity
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is also highly beneficial to clients suffering from severe disease including Lymphedema*, Dementia, Fibromyalgia, Long Covid, Multiple Sclerosis, Cancer*, and Pre/Post Op** clients.
* For clients dealing with Lymphedema, cancer or surgical procedures, we require communication and clearance from the doctor or surgeon to ensure client safety. Call to book a consultation, and plan to wear or bring any prescribed compression garments to your appointment.
** For surgical procedures we recommend 1-3 sessions pre-operation, and once cleared by doctor post-op, 3-5 daily consecutive sessions for optimal healing of incision, bone, joint, muscle, and/or cosmetic work.
Keep scrolling to discover more ways Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help you, and visit the links below to find out more information about MLD.
To get the most out of your session:
We recommend wearing loose clothing, drinking about 16 oz of water (coconut or lemon water for better hydration) about an hour prior to your arrival, and avoiding caffeine for 24 hours post session.
Mindful Tip - Pair the Ionic Foot Detox, Dry Brushing, or a Breathwork session with your MLD for the ultimate detox experience!
Helpful Links
https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/research-update-lymph-drainage/
https://woolpit-clinics.co.uk/the-benefits-of-manual-lymphatic-drainage-mld/
MLD for Long Covid:
As Covid lingers, it can clog the lymphatic system from head to joints, cloudy thinking, sinus issues, fatigue, loss of smell or taste, as well as digestive stagnation, joint pain, muscle pain, and so much more. Lymphatic drainage can flush out the spike proteins and cellular debris that may get stuck in the body.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9010124/
MLD for Memory Care:
The lymphatic system extends up into the brain, clearing the nodes and allowing free flow through the brain tissue. MLD has been shown to assist in memory recovery and aid in quality of life for clients with dementia.
MLD for Pain Management:
The Vodder method helps remove toxins and acidic fluid from joint and muscle tissues in clients with fibromyalgia, MS, Parkinson’s disease, etc.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2755111/
MLD as Energy Work:
The lymphatic system follows the meridian lines known to Traditional Chinese Medicine. This is a great way to cleanse your energetic field down to the cellular level, bringing a deeper mind-body connection.