LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE/
MUSCLE THERAPY
Lymphatic Drainage is very gentle massage which stimulates the movement of lymph through the body, it is an excellent therapy for lymphedema, fibromyalgia, and more. Muscle Therapy is a combination of yoga postures and old school stretching. The emphasis is on lengthening tight, stiff muscles so you can move better and eliminate pain points. With dedication and proper guidance from Alternative Healer, Jennifer Merritts, muscles can find their way back to better health.
Perfect for those who do a lot of traveling, sitting, exercising or post surgery/injury.
WHO IS LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE/
MUSCLE THERAPY FOR?
WHY THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM NEEDS DRAINAGE
Lymphatic Drainage is a very light, manual massage that encourages the flow of lymph through the body. The lymphatic system is comprised of lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and lymph fluid. This system acts as the body’s recycling system, removing toxins and waste products. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system has no built-in pump. It relies heavily on movement or manual stimulation. Through movement, the muscles contract and inadvertently create the flow of lymph. From there, lymph travels into the lymph nodes located in specific places around the body. The lymph nodes filter out objects that are too large to enter back into the blood stream (like cellular debris and excess fat). White blood cells are called into the nodes to help kill and break down things like viruses, bacteria, fungus, and other foreign objects.
Unfortunately, sometimes the lymph nodes need to be surgically removed due to health complications. When this happens, lymph can become backed up with no place to go, creating swelling (think of it as a traffic jam that needs to be redirected). Through manual stimulation, massage can redirect the flow of lymph, bringing it to a different node and clearing it out of the swollen area. With persistent redirection, the lymph can find a new path. The inherent intuition of the body will kick in and these new pathways will become permanent corridors for lymph flow.
RECEIVING LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE WITH JENNIFER MERRITTS
This massage is very gentle. The amount of pressure applied is very light, just enough to tug at the skin. Because the majority of the lymphatic system exists very superficially, the therapist must have an intention of working just below the skin level. Much deeper than that and the lymph system could be missed entirely. The direction and sequence of the massage is also very important. Key areas must be cleared before the “traffic jam” can start moving or be redirected.
Throughout the session, your modesty is kept in mind and you will be properly draped. The environment is comfortable and stress free. Your well being will be nurtured, and your balance will be restored. Read more info at BreastCancer.Org
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE CAN HELP WITH THE FOLLOWING:
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Before Surgery
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After Surgery
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After Pregnancy
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After Breast Surgeries
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Mononucleosis
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Recurring Viruses
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Skin Health
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Swelling
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Relaxation
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Fibromyalgia
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Lymphedema
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Removal of Drugs/Anesthesia from body
Approval from your doctor is necessary for post-op patients
MUSCLE THERAPY / STRETCHING
If you frequently hold repetitive postures, are preparing for or recovering from surgery, suffer from scar tissue or want to stay active into the glorious golden years, this is for you.
COMPLICATIONS OF AGING
As we get older, muscle fibers shorten due to the repetition of habitual movements or the increase in sedentary lifestyles. This shortening causes a decrease in blood flow to those muscles. Blood is very therapeutic. Not only does it bring warmth to cold, tight muscles, but it also brings in oxygen and nutrients while moving out toxins and waste products. The fascia (a connective tissue) also becomes tight and hard which restricts the proper movement of muscles and other connecting tissues. With enough time, this restriction can bind down organs and lead to limited function.
BENEFITS OF STRETCHING AND MUSCLE THERAPY
When you stretch, your whole body – muscles, fascia, organs, skin, etc. – becomes much more comfortable to live in. We have all been told when you reach a certain age, things just start to fall apart. You don’t have to accept pain, or deterioration. With dedication and proper guidance, muscles can always find their way back to better health.
Muscle coaching can be done in small group settings, semi private, or private settings. Sessions are customized to your individual needs and goals.
THRIVE WITHIN YOUR BODY WITH JENNIFER MERRITTS
With 24 years experience of Therapeutic Massage (since 1996), Jennifer Merritts can help you pinpoint the musculature that is tight, fascia that is constricting your movements, and the source of pain that may be due to weak muscles. Not only will you learn the stretches and strengthening exercises that are best for your particular body, but she will also show you easy self-care techniques to massage your own muscles.
Jennifer Merritts will assess your ability and flexibility and together you will build a healthier body that you can thrive within. You will be amazed at how a little bit of stretching and muscle care can alleviate chronic pain.
Learn specific stretches and strengthening exercises that are best for your particular body.
Learn techniques that will benefit you for life!
