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GuyYoga · 10-11-2003, 02:41 PM

Hey Kaiser - thanks for the question. I've had A&P for my yoga certification, and have ongoing study at workshops and such. I've encountered a couple of different slants on stretching and the lymphatic system.

As you probably know, the lymphatic system does not have a main pump like the circulatory system, and for the most part relies on muscular action to move the lymphatic fluids (which collect and disarm bacteria and viruses from the body). The larger lymph vessels have a smooth muscle layer that constricts to move the fluids. One-way valves keep the flow from backing up.

Stretching is especially good for assisting the return of lymphatic fluid from the extremities to the nodes and nodules. The fluid is then processed in the lymph nodes where macrophages and plasma cells process and disarm bacteria and other foreign materials. The fluid then enters into the bloodstream, carrying with it antibodies for the menace du jour.

Though 1:
Stretching, massage and yoga is great to assist the movement of lymphatic fluids, in turn, keeping the body operating at maximum efficiency.

Thought 2:
Stretching (and massage) is NOT good when the nodes are swollen, or pathogens have entered the body, because the movement can cause the nodes and nodules to prematurely release bacteria and other pathogens into the bloodstream before processing is complete.

I have a massage therapist friend who always encourages strong hydration after a massage. Since massage causes lymph nodes to release fluids, increased fluid intake facilitates the cleansing function of the blood and kidneys.

So there you have my yoga take on the lymphatic system and stretching and such. I haven't read anything about it recently, and I'm not aware of any front-line thoughts about it. Have you incountered any information that would shed light on what I've shared here? Let me know!

I also have some thoughts on tendons, range of motion and aging, but that will have to be in another post.

Here's hoping you have a healthy and efficient lymphatic system!

10-11-2003, 02:41 PM	#3 (permalink)
GuyYoga Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Fort Smith, AR Posts: 17	Hey Kaiser - thanks for the question. I've had A&P for my yoga certification, and have ongoing study at workshops and such. I've encountered a couple of different slants on stretching and the lymphatic system. As you probably know, the lymphatic system does not have a main pump like the circulatory system, and for the most part relies on muscular action to move the lymphatic fluids (which collect and disarm bacteria and viruses from the body). The larger lymph vessels have a smooth muscle layer that constricts to move the fluids. One-way valves keep the flow from backing up. Stretching is especially good for assisting the return of lymphatic fluid from the extremities to the nodes and nodules. The fluid is then processed in the lymph nodes where macrophages and plasma cells process and disarm bacteria and other foreign materials. The fluid then enters into the bloodstream, carrying with it antibodies for the menace du jour. Though 1: Stretching, massage and yoga is great to assist the movement of lymphatic fluids, in turn, keeping the body operating at maximum efficiency. Thought 2: Stretching (and massage) is NOT good when the nodes are swollen, or pathogens have entered the body, because the movement can cause the nodes and nodules to prematurely release bacteria and other pathogens into the bloodstream before processing is complete. I have a massage therapist friend who always encourages strong hydration after a massage. Since massage causes lymph nodes to release fluids, increased fluid intake facilitates the cleansing function of the blood and kidneys. So there you have my yoga take on the lymphatic system and stretching and such. I haven't read anything about it recently, and I'm not aware of any front-line thoughts about it. Have you incountered any information that would shed light on what I've shared here? Let me know! I also have some thoughts on tendons, range of motion and aging, but that will have to be in another post. Here's hoping you have a healthy and efficient lymphatic system! __________________ -Bryan