Massages are typically a positive experience. If done well, the massage itself feels great, and the post-massage sensation is usually one of extreme relaxation.

Despite the way they might make you feel, not all massages are able to change cosmetic aspects of your body.

But lymphatic massage has that capacity.

Where a standard massage focuses on deep muscle tissue, lymphatic massage is able to increase lymph circulation fluid through gentle touch.

On the face of it, it may seem as though a traditional massage would be more effective in changing cosmetic factors (due to its firm application), but it’s not really getting to the root of the problem.

And for many men and women, that problem is cellulite.

What is cellulite, exactly?

Cellulite is fat found inside the skin — not underneath it like standard fat tissue. And, as you probably know, it creates an unsightly divot-like appearance.

The condition can have multiple causes including water retention, deformed connective tissue, and toxin accumulation.

The relevance of lymphatic drainage massage

Since lymph massage specifically targets “shallow tissue,” it has been found to be an ideal application for treating cellulite, a condition which happens to be found closer to the surface of the body.

For instance, according to an article published in Dermatology Research and Practice, 10 subjects ages 25 to 59 with cellulite were treated using lymphatic massage.

After the procedure was completed and the subjects were evaluated and the researchers discovered that, “This technique involving lymphatic system stimulation is efficacious in the treatment of cellulite.”

Simply put: it works.

How long do the results last?

The evidence is still out as to exactly how long a few procedures will have a positive effect in reducing cellulite.

That’s why it’s recommended that patients see a lymph massage therapist regularly — to keep the condition at bay.

Interested in seeing what other services our detox spa has to offer?

Visit our location page and don’t hesitate to give us a call today.

Traditional massage has long been a form of stress relief. And there’s no doubt that it helps numerous individuals recover from tense life events.

But traditional massage is different than lymphatic massage in some important ways.

While traditional massage focuses on manipulating the superficial and deep layers of muscle tissue to enhance function, lymph massage uses repetitive, gentle and rhythmic touch to increase circulation of the lymphatic fluid.

Of course, both types can relieve stress.

But if you’re looking to give your lymphatic system a boost in addition to killing stress, then lymph drainage is the type of massage that will suit you best.

The effects of stress

We know that a little stress can be good, keeping us on our toes.

However, a lot of stress can trigger a downward spiral of ill health, depression and emotional exhaustion.

When we experience stress, the sympathetic nervous system activates, causing a fight-or-flight response.

All kinds of hormones and neurochemicals are released during a stressful event, having profound effects on the body and mind.

In fact, cortisol — one of the chemicals released — can weaken the immune system.

And chronic stress can cause all kinds of illness, including asthma, fatigue, headaches, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Needless to say, stress relief is a must in this life.

Is lymphatic massage the answer?

It can certainly help.

The massage technique has been shown to help with a variety of illnesses, including stress.

Lymph massage encourages the proper function of the lymphatic system, the transportation highway of the immune system.

And when your immune system is in tip-top shape, your resistance to disease is increased and your stress levels are low.

For more lymphatic information, give our detox day spa a call to book an appointment or inquire about a personalized detox program:

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190

You’ve probably heard that lymphatic massage can relieve stress, aches and pains, and even help a bit with weight loss. But it can also help with more serious conditions like lymphedema.

For those who aren’t already aware, lymphedema is the obstruction of fluid (lymph) in the lymphatic system. Many treatments have been developed to fight this condition – that includes compression stockings and surgery. These treatments can be expensive, inconvenient, and painful.

But people like Robert Harris, director and senior Instructor at the Dr. Vodder School, believe there’s another way to address this condition.

In one of his journal papers, Harris says that lymphatic drainage massage is an effective way to clear accumulated fluid when the lymph system has failed.

This particular paper outlines three case studies examining the success of the detox massage procedure on patients with both primary and secondary lymphedema.

Three different non-invasive measuring tools were used to measure lymph flow in patients after a 45 minute standard lymphatic massage.

Harris’ findings indicate that there’s clearly something to be said about this easy and absolutely pain-free procedure.

The patients all improved.

Repeated massage sessions could drastically improve the condition in patients, increasing lymph flow and helping lymphedema.

At Transformational Health, our clients are certainly evidence of continued health and wellness after numerous lymphatic massage sessions.

Come experience what we can do for you, today.

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190

Lymphatic massage uses less than one ounce per square centimeter of pressure on the body at any given time to effectively improve a number of functions in the body and active the flow of lymph — it’s that powerful.

That’s because this type of massage focus on the often-overlooked lymphatic system.

Lymph is a whitish liquid which flows throughout the body via the lymph vessels. Its main job is to collect toxins. And at certain sections in the body referred to as “lymph nodes,” lymph is cleaned, ridding the body of those toxins.

Lymph drainage massage helps this process, and the benefits are numerous.

Relief from post-surgery pains

Lymphatic massage can actually alleviate pain after surgery.

According to Stephen M. Krant, MD, lymphatic massage reduces swelling and aids in quick post-operation recovery for plastic surgery patients.

“In my practice, as a cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon, I often encounter post-operative swelling and, in some cases, occurrences of lymphedema in my breast reconstruction patients,” said Krant in an article he wrote for La Jolla Light.

Lymphatic massage can help alleviate those lymphedema symptoms, he notes.

Krant, like so many other skilled physicians, strongly believes in the power of lymphatic massage. And he regularly uses it maximize recovery and aesthetic results in all his patients.

Treating cellulite

There’s a study by Terrance Ryan, MD, a professor of dermatology at Oxford University which shows the speed in which lymph and blood flow through fat tissue is related to the creation of fat. Slow circulation causes the creation of fat, and fast circulation promotes the release of fat.

Lymphatic drainage releases collagen that traps the lymph vessels, therefore getting rid of cellulite.

To learn more about the lymphatic system or lymphatic massage, don’t hesitate to contact our detox day spa, today:

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190

Dr. Edzard Ernst has a plethora of professional and academic accolades. He’s an MD, a PhD, and a professor Emeritus at Exeter University. He’s also an expert and supporter of alternative medicine, according to his website, Edzardernst.com.

A long-time practitioner of lymphatic massage, Ernst can certainly attest to its benefits — and not just on a small scale either. He believes the evidence is clear that massage can be extremely beneficial to those fighting some types of cancers.

On his website, the doctor sights a clinical trial in which the effectiveness of lympatic massage is evaluated in the prevention of lymph-oedema after treatment of breast cancer. The study consisted of 67 women who had undergone breast cancer surgery. The 2nd day of surgery, 33 women were chosen at random to be given the massage technique. Consequently, 34 women didn’t receive the treatment. Measurements of the volumes of both arms were taken before surgery, and on days 2, 7, 14, as well as at 3 and 6 months, post-surgery.

Edzard cites the study’s findings on his site: “Among the women who did not have LD (also called lymph massage), a significant increase in the arm volume on the operated side was observed after 6 month. There was no statistically significant increase in the volume of the upper limb on the operated side in women who underwent LD.”

Edzard went on to say that, “…this study demonstrates that LD administered early after operation for breast cancer should be considered for the prevention of lymph-oedema.”

The doctor is extremely optimistic about lymph drainage, and he encourages the mainstream medical community to see it the same way. He wants to push for the funding of a large study that will push any naysayer claims to rest.

“…what is stopping us from funding a large, well-designed and definitive study?” he said.

Ourselves, as well as countless skilled medical experts like Edzard, have known about the benefits of lymph massage for decades, and they’re for everybody — not just for cancer patients.

Come experience all we can do for you at our Palos Verdes spa and Santa Monica-based lymphatic massage clinic.

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190
Santa Monica: 310-399-1722

Ugh, stress. While it’s known that some stress can be good for us, it often has negative effects instead.

And it’s not just the mind that’s hurt by stress, it’s the entire body.

It can lead to chronic diseases like heart disease, depression, high blood pressure and obesity.

Nearly one-quarter of Americans report being under extreme stress, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association.

And more Americans say it’s increasing.

But while almost 100 percent of adults say that physical and mental pressure can contribute to the development of major illness, only about 30 percent say they are doing an excellent job of preventing it.

That’s a shame, because there are plenty of ways to relieve the burdens of stress.

Lymphatic massage

If you’ve ever professional massage, you know why it’s a popular way to get rid of tension.

Massage gets to the nervous system through the skin, which stimulates the release of endorphins, your body’s natural “feel good” chemicals.

It’s one of the oldest forms of medical care, and it helps to relieve pain, boost alertness, ease anxiety and bump your white blood cell count.

Lymphatic drainage is a type of massage that stimulates the lymphatic system, the body’s natural defense system.

The circulation of lymphatic flow is increased by using gentle, repetitive and rhythmic touch.

That massage technique rids your body of toxins within the lymph system and increase your resistance to disease.

At the same time, it helps to reduce overall tension within your body.

For the best results, try lymphatic massage at our Palos Verdes location two or three times per week.

Detox spa

Nature is another great way to get rid of tension.

And there’s nothing like treating yourself to a day of nature at a detox spa to beat physical or mental pressure.

Our detox spa in Rancho Palos Verdes offers a serene area to receive lymphatic massage and additional detoxification therapies.

For more information about lymphatic massage or stress relief, contact us today:

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190

Many tend to rely on antibiotics and modern medicine to heal ailments, but we often forget about the natural and holistic ways to prevent disease and boost our immune systems naturally.

And there are plenty of ways out there to give your immune system a bump, including lymphatic massage.

Here are three:

Nurture your microbiome

About 80 percent of your immune response is based on your microbiome — that massive population of good and bad bacteria living in your gut.

Diets high in refined sugar and processed foods can breed bad bacteria, building up the battle field for bad bacteria to cause disease.

So, get your diet in check.

Up your intake of raw organic foods, unprocessed foods and things like yogurt with good probiotics.

That will increase the number of good bacteria, which will fight off the bad ones and leave your body in tip-top shape.

Get outside 

Consistent aerobic exercise gives your lymphatic system a charge, gets it moving and gets your immune system working at peak performance level.

The lymph system is a network of vessels that pick up toxins and removes them from the body.

But it depends on muscular contraction to work efficiently, and exercise does the trick.

And if you hike, bike or kayak outside, you’ll get your vitamin D as well, which is a big immune system booster.

Keep in mind that it’s best to stay mobile and exercise throughout the day, if you can.

Lymphatic massage

Since the lymph system relies on muscular contraction, massage can help move lymph throughout the body, giving the immune system a kick in the right direction.

Lymphatic drainage massage uses repetitive, gentle and rhythmic touch to move lymph.

The circular pumping and tiny vibrations liquefy congestion in the body.

And that increases resistance to disease, both short-term and long-term.

For more information on holistic ways to boost your immune system, call us today:

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190
Santa Monica: 310-399-1722

It’s well-known that lymphatic massage has many benefits and uses, but can it get rid of jet lag?

Gwyneth Paltrow was recently quoted as promoting lymph massage treatment for jet lag.

She apparently visits a holistic healing center in Santa Monica as soon as she arrives in Los Angeles after a long flight.

“The lymphatic massage treatment helps with jet lag, too: they wrap you in a blanket and you sweat out impurities,” she wrote in the publication Travel.

Is it true?

The uses for lymphatic massage are endless, and while it may not completely cure your jet lag — only regulating your sleep cycle can do that — it will absolutely help.

After traveling, and sitting on a long plane ride, your body is filled with toxins.

This type of massage can get your lymphatic system flowing, flushing waste and distributing nutrients to the body.

Why lymph massage?

Your lymphatic system plays a vital role in your health.

The system carries white blood cells and interstitial fluid, bringing cells nutrients and removing waste.

It’s where detoxification occurs.

But the system doesn’t have a central pump — like the heart in the cardio system — so it relies on muscle contraction, pressure changes and movement to get things, well, moving.

Massage promotes the health of your lymph system by stimulating the natural flow of lymph fluid throughout the body.

So it’s extremely useful after you’ve been sitting on a plane for hours, and it can really help your body adjust to a new time zone.

More than the lymphatic system

The lymph system isn’t the only system that lymphatic drainage massage stimulates.

It has been shown to benefit the cardiovascular system and immune system as well.

To receive more lymphatic information in Palos Verdes or Santa Monica, or discuss other alternative health options, call us today:

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190
Santa Monica: 310-399-1722

Our goal is to restore your body’s natural ability to heal.

Who would have thought that a sinus infection could be treated simply through lymph massage?

According to Alex A. Kecskes of the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, lymphatic massage aids the body’s own healing system to take effect.

“Lymphatic drainage procedures can remove much of this congestive material from around the facial area,” Kecskes says. “For those suffering from sinus infections, lymphatic drainage procedures can remove much of this congestive material from around the facial area.”

What is lymph massage?

Lymphatic massage, as its name suggests, helps promote the health of the lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system is an extended network of vessels that transfers white blood cells to the organs and tissues in your body.

Think of it as the military strategist of your body.

If a nation doesn’t have adequate military strategy, it doesn’t matter how many troops or weapons they have – they won’t be as successful in combat.

That’s why the body’s lymphatic system needs to be in top shape for the body to detox, and remain healthy.

“Lymphatic massage is basically a type of holistic therapy that gives your lymphatic system a ‘tune up.’ By manually stimulating the increased flow of lymphatic fluid, it can reinvigorate your immune system and sweep out harmful toxins,” Keckes says.

How does it work?

During the face massage cleansing, muscles are pre-warmed, and the lymph nodes are stimulated to open and enhance circulatory and lymphatic flow.

According to Kecskes, lymphatic massage is a detoxification procedure that’s helpful in fighting a variety of conditions other than a sinus infection.

It can help in overcoming fatigue, menstrual cramps, cellulite, water retention, and hayfever allergies.

If you live around Santa Monica and Palos Verdes, we encourage you to give lymphatic massage a try today.

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190
Santa Monica: 310-399-1722

There’s nothing like a success story to renew faith in an alternative treatment.

In a 2004 case study published by Positivehealthonline.com, manual lymphatic drainage was shown to help with congestion, oedema and stress.

After 5 treatments, patient Joanna, initially unable to stand without pain, and had breathing problems, is able to do so with ease.

The case study originally characterized Joanna as “overweight, presented with chronic asthma which was under control with drugs, and muscular pains in the limbs and shoulders, along with aching in the lower spine where her vertebrae were beginning to fuse.”

When asked to stand, she couldn’t maintain an upright posture without concentration and scoliosis to the left was apparent.

10 years prior, Joanna fell down the stairs and never fully recovered.

According to the case study, “Examination of Joanna revealed fluid retention in her legs and ankles and also her fingers, all of which are worse when sitting for long periods.”

Considering the possibility that a detox procedure like lymphatic massage might help with these symptoms, knowing its benefits on lymphedema, complementary health practitioner, Nina Pearsonm thought to give it a try.

After the first treatment session, Nina reported, “I was surprised at how much tension I could detect with my fingers as I worked on Joanna’s face with drainage moves which are slow and rhythmic. These specific movements have an on/off pressure in the direction of lymph flow.”

The second session included drainage of the neck arms, legs, and lower back – Nina mentioned that Joanna’s chest felt less tight.

Improvements drastically started to take shape over the next two sessions, and by the fifth, Nina claimed that Joanna was sleeping well almost every night, that she felt less stressed, and had a greater sense of control in her life.

If you’re interested cleansing your body with this detoxification procedure around Santa Monica or Palos Verdes, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Palos Verdes: 310-392-9190
Santa Monica: 310-399-1722