A few years back I came across a book that has changed my relationship with my body. It’s a book not found on most mega-bookstore shelves and it came to me in a box passed along from a friend. It’s called Breast Health Exposed.
This small volume is a treasure trove of information on breast health, important to both men and women. It includes simple tips for avoiding cancer-causing agents and enhancing personal wellness. Short and to the point, this book is well worth the time it takes to order a copy online (see details below). But the part I want to share with you today is its simple plan for a five-minute, non-invasive lymphatic massage.
Every morning I spend time in quiet contemplation, but since reading this book I also include a lymphatic massage while I sit and wake up with a glass of tea. Since all humans have lymphatic systems, this massage is important for men and women alike. My favorite part is that you learn the massage from a short video online. The healing practitioners are fully clothed and lead you through this practical self massage quickly and easily. I simply took notes on a post-it which I use as the bookmark for my morning reading materials.
The video is found at http://www.breasthealthrevolution.com. Click on the “Resources” tab and select “Videos.” The self-exam video will be right there waiting for you to press play…easy. You can also purchase a copy of the book from the web site, which I highly recommend. Once you read it, pass it along to a friend!
To encourage more of you to actually practice the massage, I have listed the steps below but it is easier to learn by watching the short video. You can see what each move means and how to do it right over your clothes. There is no need to wait until you are in the shower or in bed at night; unlike a BSE lymphatic massage can be done when you’re dressed at any time of day (but please remember to do your BSE regularly, too)! Here are the simple steps to helping your lymphatic system function at an optimal level:
- Pump the fingertips of one hand into the opposite armpit. Imagine you’re trying to gently scoop out the insides of a melon. Repeat slowly 5-6 times.
- Hold one breast in both hands and gently pull the tissue up and toward the armpit. Repeat slowly 8-10 times.
- Cup one breast with the hand on the same side of the body. Use the heel of the opposite palm to strip the inner, top breast tissue up toward the collarbone. Repeat slowly 8-10 times.
- Hold the breast on top and bottom and press the entire tissue back against the body, almost like trying to squeeze the water out of a sponge against a flat surface. Repeat 8-10 times slowly.
- Repeat all motions on the other side.
Once you get the hang of these motions, you will be able to easily perform them on a daily basis. I like to do them during my morning quiet time, while on the exercise bike at home or during my toilette. Sending your body the loving energies of cleansing, releasing toxins and radiant health–which is your true nature–enhances the process. Whether you are male or female, all bodies benefit from the loving attention we bring them; they do so much for us, let’s give something back in return!
Happy, healthy Valentine’s month to all!
Grace and Clarity 