The Lymphatic system, what it is and why is it important to give it movement?

 

 

 

The lymphatic system is a network of tubes throughout the body that drains fluid (called lymph) from tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream.

The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic vessels, lymph fluid and lymphatic tissue/organs such as lymph nodes, tonsils, thymus, spleen and Peyer's patches. 

 

The main role of the lymphatic system includes: 

• Managing the fluid levels in the body

• Filtering out bacteria and other body toxins

• Producing and storing lymphocytes (a type of white blood cells which fight off pathogens)

• Absorbing and transporting fatty acids and fats to the circulatory system

• Protecting our bodies from pathogens (e.g. bacteria and viruses)

 

The lymphatic system is a very important part of our immune system that protects us from disease. 

Unlike the circulation of the blood, the lymphatic system has no pumping mechanism. Instead it relies, for example, on muscular movement and breathing to assist the flow of the lymph fluid. Unfortunately the lymphatic system can become very sluggish (due to our sedentary lifestyles and high fat/high salt diets) leading to puffiness, bloating, constant tiredness, low immunity and frequent infections.

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Lymphatic body wraps are an excellent tool to help this system to continue to operate effectively.  Book your body wrap today.