Did you know that yoga can support your lymphatic system? Great! But are you wondering why you should be concerned? The lymphatic system consists of an extensive network of vessels, nodes, and organs that work harmoniously to protect the body from infections and keep fluids in equilibrium. Within this system, lymph, a transparent fluid abundant in white blood cells, circulates, purging detrimental substances and pathogens, while simultaneously directing surplus fluids back into the bloodstream. Additionally, the lymphatic system assumes a crucial responsibility in conveying immune cells and fostering interaction among diverse components of the immune system, thereby coordinating a synchronized defense against external threats. An important bodily system that we should pay attention to!  

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Lymphatic yoga incorporates gentle poses and movements that are designed to stimulate lymphatic circulation and promote the flow of lymph fluid throughout the body. Start these poses today!:

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Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Start this pose by beginning in a tabletop position. Next, lift your hips upward and extend your arms and legs, so that you are in an inverted “V” shape. To encourage lymphatic drainage, pedal your feet and gently bend your knees.

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Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): To begin, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Next, lift your hips off the ground, pressing your feet into the mat, and interlacing your hands beneath your back. Bridge pose promotes lymph to flow more freely from the upper body, by opening the chest and shoulders.

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Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani): To do viparita karani, start by lying on your back and lifting your legs up against a wall. This inverted position helps promote lymphatic drainage from the legs and lower body. We love this one! It also promotes relaxation and reduces swelling.

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Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Start by lying on your stomach. Next, press your palms into the mat and lift your chest while keeping your pelvis grounded. Cobra pose encourages lymphatic flow in the abdominal region and improves circulation along the spine.

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Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Get into cat cow by moving between arching your back (cow pose) and rounding your spine (cat pose), while incorporating the breath. This gentle sequence helps to stimulate lymphatic circulation along the spine and in the abdomen.

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Twisting Poses: Promote lymphatic drainage from the digestive organs, by incorporating twisting poses like seated spinal twists or supine twists. This encourages gentle compression and release of the abdominal area.

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Remember, lymphatic yoga requires gentle movements and mindful breathing! The goal is to encourage fluid movement and stimulate the lymphatic system without strain or discomfort. Always listen to your body and modify poses as needed to suit your flexibility and comfort level.