Lymphatic Flow: A Practice for Spring Clearing
with Piper

The arrival of spring is an annual reaffirming that re-growth is possible and necessary. It gives us hope, energy, and a sense of freshness. Just as bodies of water cleanse themselves by constantly moving and flowing.. and by going through phases, like changing from liquid to solid to gasses.. cycled through earth, ocean, and atmosphere--our systems yearn for a renewal.

In this two-hour workshop we will flow through gentle vinyasas, unwind with restorative poses, and clear out congestion with practices to increase lymphatic drainage. We will use soft manual self-adjustments and acupressure, gua sha (skin scraping) as well as pranayama. You will be guided with imagery and awareness to open and clear out old patterns (physical, mental, emotional) and to support this seasonal reaffirmation.

The main purpose of the lymphatic system is to maintain fluid balance in the body, remove excess (edema), and filter out harmful substances, toxins, and pathogens from the tissues. It plays a crucial role in the immune system by transporting lymph, a clear fluid containing white blood cells and waste products, throughout the body. The lymphatic system also helps to absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system and transport them to the bloodstream. It serves as a vital component of the body's defense against infection, inflammation, and disease.

Promoting lymphatic flow is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system, proper fluid balance, and overall well-being.

1. Muscular Contraction & Relaxation: Muscular engagement plays a significant role in moving lymph fluid through the body. When muscles contract during physical activity, they exert pressure on nearby lymphatic vessels, helping to propel lymph fluid forward. Regular and varied movement is crucial for promoting lymphatic circulation.

2. Respiratory Movement: The movement of the diaphragm during breathing is one of the best ways to increase lymphatic circulation. As you inhale, the diaphragm contracts and moves downward, creating a vacuum in the chest cavity and drawing lymph fluid upward toward the thoracic duct, the main lymphatic vessel in the body. When you exhale, the pressure in the chest cavity increases, pushing lymph fluid further along its path.

3. Valves in Lymphatic Vessels: Lymphatic vessels contain one-way valves that prevent the backward flow of lymph fluid. As lymph moves through the vessels, these valves ensure that it travels in the right direction, toward the lymph nodes and eventually back into the bloodstream.

4. External Pressure: External forces such as massage, gua sha, dry-brushing, skin rolling, and fascial releasing can stimulate lymphatic flow. Light pressure applied to the skin in particular areas and directions clears out congested tissues and moves lymph fluid through the vessels.

5. Gravitational Force: Gravity plays a role in lymphatic drainage, particularly in the limbs. When you elevate your legs above the level of your heart, gravity assists in moving lymph fluid from the lower extremities toward the central lymphatic vessels in the torso.

6. Interstitial Pressure: Interstitial pressure, the pressure exerted by fluids surrounding the cells in tissues, also influences lymphatic flow. Changes in interstitial pressure, such as during inflammation or injury, can affect the movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels.

7. Hydration: Adequate hydration is essential for lymphatic function. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the lymphatic system hydrated and to help flush toxins from the body.

Through practice and a deeper understanding these mechanisms, we can support and enhance lymphatic flow for maintaining overall health, immunity, and well-being.

Open to all. All props provided.