The word “lymph” is derived from the Latin word for clear water. The lymph system is made up of lymph nodes, lymph vessels, bone marrow (where immune cells are manufactured), the spleen and tonsils. The main function of the lymphatic system is to isolate and fight infections as well as absorb excess fluid, fat and debris from our bodies. As these materials build up in the lymph system, it can become congested or blocked. Because the lymph system cleanses our entire body, symptoms of a blocked system can manifest in many forms ranging from frequent colds and infections to inflammation and joint pain. The lymph system removes excess fluid from the tissues and in between the cells. It also absorbs protein and gives it to the blood. Pathogens, toxins, and cancer cells are all removed my the lymph system. The lymph system moves very slowly. It has no pump, like your heart pumps your blood. Its up to you to “pump” your lymph fluid.
The detoxifying abilities of the lymphatic system are reduced by poor diet, stress and heavy metal and environmental toxicity, which may result in hormonal dysfunction, immune suppression and chronic degenerative disease. The lymph fluid also contains infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that is vital in regulating and carrying out many of the activities of the immune system. If the system is weak, we become vulnerable to the invasion of autoimmune issues, flu viruses and bacterial infections.
The lymph glands, located mainly around the neck, armpits and groin, indicate an infection is present by painful swelling and tenderness to the touch. Conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure and depression have all been linked to poor lymphatic drainage. The lymph is essentially the body’s waste highway.
This is where jumping comes in. It’s as easy as jumping up and down right where you stand, jumping rope, box jumping or working up a sweat on a mini-trampoline. Jumping exercises not just your muscles but your cells, too. It’s called “rebounding,” and it could save your life because it’s effects are amazing for the body’s internal disposal system. Rebounding aids lymphatic circulation by stimulating the millions of one-way valves in the system and better circulation means better cell health.
When you exercise vigorously, the lymph fluid speeds up from about 120 millilitres per hour to as much as 1,800 ml/hour. This happens when muscle contraction takes place, fats, glucose and glycogen are used up to leave behind carbon dioxide, heat, water, lactic and uric acid. It is then up to the lymphatic system to make sure these pollutants are removed from the body.
Are signs of cellulite starting to worry you? Keep jumping! In cases of insufficient surface stimulation, or where there is lack of aerobic or oxygen-producing exercise, the buildup of toxins in the surface tissues is called cellulite.
Also remember to eat clean, organic food, stay hydrated and get a good nights sleep. At least eight hours sleep is essential for most people. Practice relaxation techniques in order to reduce stress. SWEAT! the moisture produced is full of waste material. Dry brushing your body once a day with a natural bristle dry-skin brush will cause the lymph to move and thus vitalize the skin surface by removing dead cells. Lymphatic drainage can also be supported with special massage, chiropractic and osteopathic techniques. At home, alternating hot and cold baths can invigorate both the lymphatic and circulatory systems. And don’t forget, jump, jump jump!!