Manual Lymphatic Drainage Sequence

Following the Proximal-to-Distal Principle

Preparation

1. Set the Environment: Create a calm, comfortable atmosphere for the client. Use a massage table and supportive props like pillows or bolsters.

2. Focus on Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly to ensure a clean and safe treatment.

Lymph flows right under your skin. To move the lymph fluid, you need to use gentle, light pressure to stretch the skin. Firm and deep pressure like a massage does not work which will block the flow of fluid.

The stretch and release movements should become a rhythmic motion.

Keep your hand open and relaxed. You will use the pads of your fingers to gently help the fluid move.

Gently stretch the skin as far as it naturally goes in the direction that you want the lymph to flow.
Hold for 3 seconds.

Then release the pressure and let your skin return to the relaxed state before repeating the movement.

You will repeat all these steps 5-7 times.

Using the core techniques - stationary circles, scooping and effleurage. Start with effleurage and finish with effleurage.