What to Expect 

What to Expect During Your Session:

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If you’ve never had Manual Lymphatic Drainage, you’re in for a unique and deeply relaxing experience. Unlike traditional massage that works on the muscles, MLD focuses on the skin and the delicate lymphatic vessels just beneath it.

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1. The "Feather-Light" Touch

Because lymphatic vessels are thin and sit close to the surface, the pressure used is extremely light—about the weight of a nickel. There is no kneading or deep pressure, as firm force can actually collapse the tiny lymph vessels we are trying to open.

 

2. Rhythmic & Calming

The movements are slow, rhythmic, and repetitive. This specialized "pumping" technique mimics the natural rhythm of your lymphatic system. Most clients find this so soothing that they drift into a light sleep (often called a "nerve nap").

 

3. A Targeted Approach

I always begin by "opening" the main lymph nodes in the neck and torso, regardless of where your discomfort is. This clears the "traffic jam" so fluid from other parts of the body has a place to go.

 

4. Post-Session Care

After your session, you may feel lighter, more energized, or deeply relaxed. Because MLD encourages the body to flush waste:

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate:  Drink plenty of water to help your kidneys process the moved fluid.  Avoid caffeine or limit consumption.  

• Avoid:  consuming alcohol, excessive salt and processed sugars to keep inflammation down.  Strenuous activity or exercise. Take it easy the rest of the day.  A 10 min gentle walk can be beneficial.  If you feel fatigued, a short nap or early bedtime can significantly enhance your recovery.  

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What to Expect After Your Session:

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While most people feel immediate lightness, MLD is a powerful stimulant for your internal systems. As your body works to filter and eliminate the waste mobilized during the session, you may experience temporary "detox" symptoms. 

 

• Temporary Fatigue: You may feel "wiped out" or deeply sleepy for the rest of the day. This is a normal sign that your body is expending energy to process and flush out metabolic waste.

• Mild Headaches: As toxins are released into the bloodstream for elimination, or if you become slightly dehydrated from increased urination, a mild headache can occur.

• Increased Urination: This is the most common sign that the treatment is working as your kidneys process the extra fluid.

• Timeline: These symptoms are typically mild and usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours as your system recalibrates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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• Is MLD the same as a regular massage?
  No. While both are relaxing, MLD is a specialized, functional treatment that works on the fluids in your body rather than the muscles. The touch is much lighter—about the weight of a nickel—and uses specific, rhythmic strokes to encourage your lymphatic system to filter out waste.

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• How often should I book a session?
  Frequency depends on your personal goals:

  • General Wellness & Detox: Every 3–4 weeks is ideal for maintenance.

  • High Stress or Travel: Bi-weekly or as needed during busy periods.

  • Managing Chronic Symptoms (e.g., Fibromyalgia): Initially, 1–2 sessions per week may provide the most relief before tapering to monthly maintenance.  Session frequency is different for everyone and we will work this out together.

 

• How long does a session last?
  A wellness MLD session can be 60 or 90 minutes long.  This allows enough time to properly "open" the main lymph nodes and perform the rhythmic pumping across the targeted areas of the body.  A 90 minute session is great for full body and a 60 minute can be more targeted.

 

 

• What results will I see?
  Most clients report feeling a sense of lightness and deep relaxation immediately after their first session. Visible results, such as reduced facial puffiness or abdominal bloating, are often most apparent 24 hours later as your system continues to drain.  Benefits continue improving in a series of sessions and then as regular maintenance.

 

• Is MLD safe for everyone?
  While very gentle, MLD is a powerful stimulant for your internal systems. Absolute contraindications (times when MLD should not be performed) include:

  • Acute Infections (Fever, flu, or contagious illness).

  • Acute cellulitis (skin infection)

  • Blood Clots (DVT) or history of thrombosis.

  • Untreated Congestive Heart Failure (CHF - cardiac edema)

  • Acute untreated deep venous thrombosis (DVT)

  • Kidney or Renal Failure (require physician’s approval)

  • Active Cancer (unless cleared by your oncologist).

  • Note: If you have a history of migraines or specific medical conditions, please let us know so we can adjust your session plan accordingly.

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• Do I need to do anything special before my appointment?
  The best thing you can do is hydrate. Drinking extra water before your session helps your lymphatic system move fluid more efficiently and can help prevent post-session headaches or fatigue

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Health Disclaimer:

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My Health & Wellness MLD sessions are designed for relaxation and the support of a healthy lymphatic system. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. If you are managing a clinical condition such as lymphedema, or are currently under a doctor’s care for a chronic illness, please consult your physician.