7 ways to decrease body inflammation
I’ve recently been diagnosed with Lyme Disease…again. Ugh. I’ve had it for at least 15 years, maybe longer. This time both legs took turns swelling to the point where I couldn’t see my ankles. Don’t worry though, I found a wonderful doctor and an amazing natural healer to help me. I feel like this time I’ll kick these persistent bacteria out of my blood for good!
This experience did get me thinking about the importance of our lymphatic system and how to make sure it’s operating at top capacity. In a nutshell, the lymphatic system is part of the immune system that filters out bacteria and cancer cells and creates white blood cells—our infection fighters. Many of the lymph nodes are found in the neck, armpits, groin, chest, and abdomen.
When the lymphatic system is compromised, inflammation soars along with inflammatory diseases like fibromyalgia, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, MS, Type 1 diabetes, Crohn’s disease, some cancers, and more.
Here are 7 ways you can help your lymphatic system and decrease body inflammation:
Don’t eat refined sugar, or try to eat a lot less. Replace sugar as a sweetener with maple syrup, honey, and dates.
Don’t drink alcoholic beverages. My natural healer told me she’d rather see me eat a cup of refined sugar versus any kind of alcohol. Bummer. Yet, I understand because Lyme’s, cancers, and other inflammatory diseases feed on sugar and alcohol.
Make a face mask out of honey and crushed baby aspirins. This will pull inflammation out of your skin.
Use a face roller to improve blood flow and decrease puffiness by stimulating your lymphatic system. Here’s a link demonstrating how to use the roller: Anti Aging Facial Massage & Lymphatic Drainage Routine Using Jade Roller! - YouTube
Incorporate dry brushing into your daily routine. Here’s a demo link and information on its powerful benefits: Dry Brushing for Lymphatic Drainage - Shown the Best way by a Lymphedema Physical Therapist - YouTube
Request a lymphatic drain massage from your massage therapist.
Move. The lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump like the heart so requires movement to get it flowing. Your calves act like its pumps so take walks or ride a bike. Swing your arms over your head and out to the side. Jumping jacks are one of the best exercises to get the lymphatic fluid flowing.
And as always, I’m available for private sessions if you need deeper understanding, support, or guidance in the form of energy work or intuitive life coaching.