YOGA & THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM

The human body has two systems that function using valves; the circulatory and lymphatic systems. However, unlike our circulatory system, which is driven innately by our heart, the lymphatic system requires deliberate movement to stay healthy.

Lymph nodes are grouped in five locations; the neck, the armpits and chest, the centre of the abdomen, the groin, and the back of our knees. Together they work to maintain fluid balance, facilitate the absorption of dietary fats from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream, and lastly, enhance the immune system to mitigate pathogenic attack and disease. Whatever is unnecessary or harmful is transported through the lymph and eventually emptied into and processed by the liver, and further eliminated (poo, sometimes we gotta talk about it).

Essentially, the lymphatic system is our waste management centre. When it is under-functioning we can experience frequent illness, fatigue, brain fog, stiffness, poor skin tone, psoriasis, acne, and eczema, puffiness and oedema, and a general feeling of heaviness. Lymph vessels are surrounded by a thin layer of muscle and without a self-sufficient motor, consistent physical movement is required to pump lymph through the body. Think of the movement of traffic through tolls on a highway. Each time a muscle contracts, it constricts the lymph vessel. This action pushes lymph fluid through a now opened valve. When the muscle relaxes, the vessel expands and the valves close.

Yoga is a holistic practice, one that compliments the synergistic design of human nature. Pranayama massages our diaphragm region and asana work the muscles around the other four lymphatic centres. Imagine, in your next practice, your lymph flowing freely as you breathe deeply and move with intention. No wonder it feels so good!