As I continue on my health journey a recent focus for me has been my lymphatic system. I have always found the lymphatic system and its function to be a little confusing so I thought I would break it down for you all. It is very important for our overall health and vitality so it is important we understand its function and how to improve its function so we can be the healthiest versions of ourselves!

The lymphatic system works to maintain fluid balance in our body and is an integral part of our immune system. It consists of a network of lymph nodes, vessels, and organs, like the spleen and tonsils, which is where a fluid called lymph flows. In other words, lymph is the liquid in our lymphatic system. We want to make sure our lymph is flowing through our lymphatic system easily. This indicates a healthy lymphatic system that can carry out all of its functions.

Here's a breakdown of its main functions:

Fluid Balance: The lymphatic system helps to return excess fluid from tissues back into the bloodstream. Without this, fluid would build up, causing swelling, aka edema.

Immune Function: The lymphatic system is involved in fighting infections. It contains lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that help detect and destroy pathogens like bacteria and viruses.

Absorption of Fats: The lymphatic vessels in the intestines absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins from your digestive system and transport them into the bloodstream.

The lymphatic system plays a key role in protecting your body from toxins, pathogens, and waste products. Here's how it contributes to detoxification:

1. Filtering Toxins: As blood circulates through the body, some waste products and toxins, such as bacteria, viruses, and cellular debris, are picked up by the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes act as filters, trapping these harmful substances before they can spread further. Inside the lymph nodes, immune cells, like lymphocytes, detect and attack pathogens or toxins, neutralizing them.
2. Transporting Waste: The lymphatic system helps carry waste products, such as dead cells or bacteria, from tissues back into the bloodstream. From there, the waste can be processed and eliminated by organs like the liver and kidneys, which are responsible for detoxification.
3. Immune Response: The lymphatic system plays a central role in your immune system. When harmful substances are detected, white blood cells are activated to fight infections and neutralize toxins. This process also involves the release of antibodies that help neutralize toxins and pathogens.
4. Fluid Regulation: Since the lymphatic system is responsible for collecting excess fluid between cells and returning it to the bloodstream, it also helps to prevent the buildup of toxins and waste in tissues, which could otherwise lead to inflammation or other health issues.

This is why it is so important to make sure your lymph is moving freely otherwise toxins can accumulate in your body and cause devastating effects. The lymph basically shuttles toxins through your body and other organs and bodily functions help to then get them out of your body. 

A stuck lymph refers to when the normal flow of lymph is impaired or slowed down. This can result in a buildup of lymph fluid, leading to issues like swelling or inflammation. 

Signs your lymph is congested: 

This can show up in our bodies like fatigue, headaches, acne, frequent sickness, swelling, brain fog and pain. 

1. Movement
2. Rebounding
3. Vibration Plate
4. Guasha
5. Massage and other manual techniques
6. Massage with lymph supporting oils
7. Prana mat and other fascia releasing exercises
8. Sauna
9. Epsom salt or magnesium flake bath
10. Dry brush
11. Incorporate lymph loving herbs
12. Hydration with minerals