
Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and tissues that work together to move a colorless, watery fluid (lymph) back into your circulatory system ((bloodstream). As a vital part of your immune system, your lymphatic system protects you from infections and destroys old or abnormal cells your body doesn’t need. Lymphatic system functions also include maintaining normal fluid levels in your body and absorbing fats and fat-soluble vitamins so they can make their way into your bloodstream. It consists of the thymus gland, bone marrow, tonsils, adenoids, spleen, lymph nodes, and lymph vessels. The lymphatic system is closely linked to digestion as well, with many lymph nodes found in the stomach area, and impacts diseases such as excessive obesity caused by abnormal fat and carbohydrate metabolism.
Functions of the lymphatic system:
Integral part of the immune system; producing and releasing lymphocytes, collecting waste, bacteria, and damaged cells, so they can be removed.
Helps maintain fluid levels in the body, it collects excess fluid from your tissues and returns it to your bloodstream. Aids in maintaining blood pressure.
Helps the body absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins so they can make their way into your bloodstream for processing..
The lymphatic system can be compared to the T.C.M. concept of the San Jiao Channel. A channel and “organ system” that technically isn’t an organ and doesn’t exist in Western medicine, yet matches the lymphatic system functions. The san jiao is a widespread structure that is deeply involved with the functions of the different organs. It is divided into the upper, middle, and lower jiao, energetically dividing the body into three sections. Despite technically not having a physical structure, the San Jiao serves an important function as a passageway for the movement of Qi, heat, and fluid throughout the body. It is also vital in the removal of wastes and is closely involved in metabolism. Some even hypothesize the San Jiao to be the interstitial space between cells in tissues, where the extracellular liquid enters into the lymphatic vessel to form the lymph. Therefore a healthy lymphatic system is essential for a healthy running San Jiao.
The upper jiao is like a “mist.”
The middle jiao is like a “muddy pool.”
The lower jiao is like a “drainage ditch.”
Main functions of the lymphatic system that parallel the San Jiao:
Maintaining fluid regulation throughout the body, edema is a pathological condition of both.
Plays a role in the body’s metabolism , and the transformation and transportation of nutrients.
Protects the body from invaders, enhances the immune system's functions.
Ways to keep the lymphatic system + San Jiao healthy:
Stay hydrated with clean water + lemon
Dry brushing
Regular Acupuncture
Traditional fire cupping and gua sha
Lymphatic drainage massage
Hydrotherapy
Far Infrared sauna + cold shower/ice bath (contrast therapy)
Deep breathing
Loose clothing with natural fibers
Qi Gong-Neurolymphatic Tapping
Avoid toxic chemicals and pesticides found in cleaning products and food
Exercise regularly
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