It’s not unusual to feel tired and sore in January. This time of year, we tend to get less exercise and less sunshine, as well as there being an increased incidence of colds and flu. When our mental health isn’t as good as we’d like it to be, back and joint pain often feels worse – to learn more about this, you can read our blog post about it here.
But did you know that improving lymphatic flow is a great way to relieve pain, fatigue and low mood?
Our lymphatic system is responsible for draining toxins, waste and excess fluid from the body, helping to fight infection and transport white blood cells. However, unlike your bloodstream, lymph fluid doesn’t have a pump to help move it along. Signs of a clogged lymphatic system include:
- Aching or stiff joints, particularly in the morning.
- Low mood or fatigue.
- Existing conditions, like arthritis, feeling worse.
- Frequent headaches.
- Being more prone to colds, flu or a runny nose.
The good news is that improving your lymphatic flow can be done easily and for free. Here’s how!
- Exercise. Even making time for a walk around the block can get your lymphatic system moving. If you have a desk-based job, it’s a good idea to get up every half an hour and stretch to make sure your lymph doesn’t get stagnant. This is a great way to ward off stiff joints, neck ache and brain fog.
- Breathe deeply. When we sit still for along time, our breath becomes short and shallow. Deep, full breaths act as a pump system for lymph to circulate around your body.
- Eat fruits and vegetables every day. Lymph fluid contains immune cells, so making sure you’re eating healthily is the most straightforward way of boosting immunity and reducing inflammation, both of which improve the flow of your lymphatic system.
- Massage. Having a back or neck massage is a sure-fire way to get your lymph flowing, while easing pain and stiffness. Even if you’re not able to book an appointment with our massage therapists, you can perform simple massages on yourself to help with lymphatic flow. The best places to focus on are your neck and just above your collarbone. Stroke or press on these areas with a very soft pressure – there’s no need to use any force. A sense of wellbeing, relaxation and yawning are all signs that your lymph is successfully draining.
If you’d like more information on how to help your back pain, don’t hesitate to book in with us for a check-up. We’re always happy to help.