This session seamlessly blends traditional Western methods with the ancient art of Eastern Chinese manipulative techniques, creating a holistic experience for the body. By incorporating gentle yet effective soft-tissue manipulation and precise acupressure, it promotes detoxification, invigorates circulation, and alleviates water retention. Feel the tension melt away as each touch revitalizes your body, leaving you refreshed and harmonized.

 Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized therapeutic technique pioneered by Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife, Estrid, in 1936 while they were in Paris. This method is primarily designed to treat conditions related to swollen lymph nodes, often resulting from various medical issues such as lymphedema or post-surgical complications.

The technique involves gentle, very light, rhythmic hand movements applied to the skin. It stretches the skin, which aims to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. This promotes the removal of excess fluid and toxins, enhancing overall lymphatic circulation and supporting the immune system.  Unlike traditional massage, which focuses on muscle tension and relaxation, MLD targets the intricate network of lymph vessels, nurturing their function and promoting the free flow of lymphatic fluid. The Vodders developed the MLD approach based on their understanding of the lymphatic system’s structure and function, focusing on the delicacy and precision required in handling this sensitive bodily system.

Diaphragmatic breathing techniques, often referred to as deep breathing exercises, are typically incorporated at both the beginning and conclusion of a therapy session. These methods are designed to facilitate the opening of the deep lymphatic pathways in the body. As individuals engage in this breathing practice, they focus on expanding their diaphragm, allowing for fuller and more intentional breath. This process not only induces a state of relaxation, promoting mental tranquility, but also plays a crucial role in enhancing the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the system. By encouraging optimal fluid circulation, diaphragmatic breathing supports the body’s natural detoxification processes and overall well-being.

Through MLD, patients often experience reduced swelling, pain relief, and improved healing, making it a vital component in the holistic management of lymphatic health.

It's also effective in preparing you for surgery because it activates the lymphatic system before the trauma of surgery.

Benefits

• Increasing the flow of oxygen and blood to the facial area, neck, trunk, and limbs

• Toning, tightening, and detoxification of skin and organ systems

• Better mental alertness, focus, and relaxation

• Emotional and lymphatic cleansing through the use of essential oils

• Acupressure on the face, head, and body to get rid of edema and toxicity

During the session 

The session is conducted on the massage table, and most of the work is done with the client facing upward. Women are asked to wear either a sports bra, a bra, or a bathing suit top so that their torsos can be exposed while the client remains covered. Either riding shorts, lightweight shorts, yoga pants, bathing suit bottoms, or boxer shorts can be worn for the lower extremity work.

If you prefer not to use essential oils, please let me know in advance.

A misbelief of many is that MLD will make you lose weight and get rid of cellulite.  This is very untrue.  A proper diet and exercise are key.  Consult your health care provider (doctor) for information on how to reduce these two things.

Contraindications

This therapy comes with specific contraindications that must be taken seriously. If you find that any of these apply to you, please reach out to Carla Mary for a thorough discussion. In some instances, obtaining a doctor's referral and or a release may be all that's necessary to proceed. It's essential to note that if you fail to disclose any of the following conditions, the session will be terminated immediately, and you will still be responsible for the full payment of the scheduled time. 

• Acute cellulitis/erysipelas

• Severe cardiac insufficiency

• Cardiac edema

• Hepatic cirrhosis with abdominal fluid (ascites)

• Unstable hypertension

• Renal failure

• Untreated tuberculosis or malaria

• Superior Vena Cava Obstruction

• Currently receiving chemo or radiation treatments

• Liver issues

• Kidney disease

• Untreated thyroid dysfunction

• Metastases

• Cancer or tumors

• DVT deep venous thrombosis

• Fever or being currently sick (colds, flu etc)

• Recent surgeries - please get in touch with Carla Mary to discuss.

Side effects and after the session

Most individuals feel many benefits within the first day of the session. It is all up to the individual, considering their physical state before the session and what is happening inside their body.  Some side effects are common as the toxins that are within you are leaving the body. (They must go somewhere to exit.)   The lymph system drains through the kidneys, and most people have frequent urination.  Most individuals experience the side effects for a few days at most.

Lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique that helps move fluid through the body; however, as with all types of therapy, there are a few possible side effects that may occur with this type of massage.

• Increased urination and/or bowel movements. The purpose of lymphatic massage is to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid, thereby removing toxins from the body. This, in turn, affects the urinary and gastrointestinal systems, where toxins are excreted. Some individuals have mentioned discoloration in the urine as the lymph exists through the kidneys; whatever is stagnant in the lymph will discolor the urine.

• Headache and/or aching muscles. This is considered a natural result because this type of therapy is releasing tension and toxins and moving it through the body systems.

• Emotional sensitivity. It’s completely understandable; our bodies often hold onto emotions in profound ways. You're not alone in feeling this.

• Increased hunger and thirst. Lymphatic drainage is a very relaxing and cleansing process. When you are in a relaxed state and your body’s fluids are flowing at a healthier rate, it becomes more aware of the nutrients it needs. It is essential to drink water after this session.

• Fatigue. The body that needs lymphatic drainage has been under a lot of stress and sometimes trauma. It is normal to feel extremely tired afterwards.