If you have ever felt puffy, heavy, or just a bit sluggish in your body, your lymphatic system might need a little support. That’s where Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) comes in– a gentle, specialised massage that helps your body feel lighter, clearer, and more balanced.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

MLD is a very light, rhythmic massage technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymph– the clear fluid that helps your body remove waste, fight infection, and regulate fluid balance. The touch is soft and soothing, often described as calming or meditative. It’s not about the pressure or deep muscle work– it’s about creating wave-like movements that support the body’s natural rhythm.

Why Is It So Helpful?

.  • Reduces Swelling: MLD can help reduce fuid build-up, especially after injury, surgery, or when lymph nodes have been reduced.

   • Supports Detox: By encouraging lymph flow, MLD helps your body clear waste more efficiently.

   • Relieves Discomfort: Gentle drainage can reduce feelings of heaviness or tightness, particularly in the limbs.

   • Boosts Immunity: A well functioning lympth system helps your immune system stay strong.

Who Can Benefit?

MLD is especially helpful for people living with:

   • Lymphoedema or chronic swelling

   • Post-surgical swelling or scar tissue build up

   • Pre-surgery clients wanting to reduce fluid and support circulation

It is also deeply calming, making it a great choice for anyone needing nervous system support– especially after trauma, long-term stress and after cancer treatment.

What Makes It Different From A Regular Massage?

MLD doesn’t work on the muscles. Instead, it follows the pathways of the lymphatic vessels, using careful sequences and techniques that are unique to this type of bodywork. It’s about rhythm, flow, and intention. What you see or feel might look light, but it is incredibly powerful in the right hands.

And Breathe…

Did you know that deep breathing is one of the easiest ways to support your lymphatic systm at home? The act of slow, deep breaths helps pump lymph fluid through the thoracic duct– the body’s biggest drainage vessel. It’s simple, free and pairs perfectly with MLD sessions.

A quick summary– MLD is a gentle, specialised therapy that supports your lymphatic system, reduces swelling, helps detoxification, and can be a vital part of care for those with lymphoedema, chronic illness, or recovering from surgery. 

It’s all about helping your body do what it’s designed to do– but with a little extra support!

To book book your session or discuss a programme to help you manage a chronic condition email fi@therapyinmotion.co 

Read more about the lymph systemLets talk about your lymphatic system without fancy words