The Brazilian Lymphatic and Contouring services With Kathy Phillips

What Is Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage involves massaging the fluid stuck between cells and in the tissue to the lymph nodes to pump them out of the body. Kathy explains that in Brazil (the world leader in plastic surgery procedures), lymphatic drainage is considered mandatory after cosmetic procedures. "Due to demand, lymphatic drainage became very popular there, and they have evolved the original Vodder technique to another level, combining it with some of Leduc and Godoy maneuvers. This claims to deliver more instantaneous and visible results."

A whole lot is going on in the lymphatic system—it is composed of some organs, plus a network of vessels, nodes, and glands, which carry excess fluid, metabolic waste, and toxins through the body. It then filters that fluid of potentially harmful organisms and bacteria that can lead to infection and disease. But unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump to keep the flow moving—so when it's impaired, that fluid builds up, delaying the body's ordinary functionality and causing swelling, lethargy, tiredness, heavy legs, and inflammation.

This is where the Brazilian lymphatic drainage process comes in—it involves the whole body, beginning by stimulating the lymph nodes, starting from the neck area to the groin, under the knees and ankles, armpits, collar bone, and most importantly, the thoracic duct. It uses soft pressure to encourage a healthy lymph flow through a series of strokes and patterns along the lymphatic pathway. We describe this as "the pumping technique," which helps the lymph nodes open and close, bringing toxins out of the body—or up to the center to be cleaned—so the lymph can distribute fresh nutrients.

How to Prepare for Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Massage

We recommend preparing for lymphatic massage the same way you would for a regular massage, with a little twist:

• Take a shower prior.

• Avoid heavy meals 1 hour before your booking; ideally, fast or eat a light meal.

• Be prepared to heavily hydrate after. "Drinking a lot of water after helps to keep your results for longer,” says Kathy.

• Avoid alcohol before your session, and avoid carbs, alcohol, and sugar after your session; consume very clean meals afterward.

What to Expect During a Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Massage

The massage is an all-over body experience not dissimilar to a regular massage, with some exceptions. Expect gentle stomach manipulation, but you'll feel relaxed, just like during a standard massage. You should not expect it to be painful at all unless your treatment is straight after surgery, Kathy explains. "In this instance, it can take time until you feel comfortable with the strokes. Even post-surgery, it shouldn't be unbearable; it feels a bit like touching a numb area, but it is very important to bring the sensitivity back and increase the blood perfusion."

Her personal method of lymphatic drainage is unique, focusing a lot on the digestive system while incorporating plenty of breathing, optimizing the drainage. "It also involves a Myofascial relief that can feel sharp but worth it. Relaxing the abdominal muscles and having an empty bladder helps to make your experience more pleasant and leads to better results," she says.