lymphatic-system

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage (RLD)

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle and relaxing therapy that works on the body’s lymphatic system. It has a range of health benefits. It can help with inflammatory issues – reducing pain, swelling and lymphedema. MLD also has a rejuvenating effect on the skin and can be used as an effective treatment for skin condition such as rosacea and acne.

The Lymphatic System

The word lymph derives from the Latin lympha meaning ‘clear water or goddess of water’ and the lymphatic system is often referred to as ‘the river of life.’

It flows alongside the circulatory system and filters excess fluid and cellular waste from the spaces between our cells, enabling them to function properly and receive essential nutrients.

Its anti-inflammatory role affects a number of conditions as well as skin health and appearance.

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have its own pump. Modern lifestyles and certain health conditions can all make lymphatic flow sluggish. Movement and massage encourage lymphatic flow.

Most (if not all) of my treatments affect lymphatic drainage to some degree but I have also completed advanced training in MLD and RLD so you can choose between a facial or a foot treatment – or even combine the two!

Benefits of MLD and RLD treatments

Skin benefits:

  • Clear acne
  • Calm rosacea
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Reduce sinus congestion
  • Reduce puffiness and dark circles
  • Sculpting effect
  • Promotes healing from cosmetic surgery

Other conditions that MLD or RLD may help support:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic ENT infections
  • Constipation
  • Bell’s palsy
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Asthma
  • Sport injuries
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lymphedema
  • Lymphoma
  • Post operative recovery
  • Migraine
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My training

I hold certificates in both Foundation and Advanced Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) Neck and Face – Dr Vodder Method.

I have completed specialist Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage (RLD) training with its creator, Sally Kay. RLD was originally used and found to be effective for reducing lymphedema in women who had lymph nodes removed during breast cancer treatment, but it was also found to benefit other inflammatory conditions.

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Treatments

MLD and RLD are both incredibly relaxing, light touch and non-invasive treatments.

RLD can be incorporated into any reflexology treatment, and I also offer the following bespoke face and neck treatment:

Detox Facial Flow

The treatment begins with a luxurious hot towel cleanse before I massage the face, neck and chest with a warmed Thai Herbal Poultice. This starts the process of opening the lymphatic pathways and the specially selected herbs have a host of skin enhancing properties. As you drift away into a state of relaxation, I begin the MLD treatment – a series of gentle and precise movements  – to balance the nervous system and encourage healing from the inside out.

You may wish to add  Reflexology Lymph Drainage for a truly top-to-toe treatment.

Any Other Questions?

Please contact me.
Contact Rebecca