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Eliminate Toxins & Cellulite With This Massage Technique You Can Do At Home

By MollySims.com

Years ago, when we first found out that lymphatic drainage can eliminate toxins, cellulite, fat and dead cells (and more), we were immediately intrigued… and then hooked after leaving the appointment. Soon after, we found out that in-person treatments at spas aren’t the only way to get the job done. It’s DIY, too. This only furthered our curiosity.

We had to know how to complete this magical slimming method at home. Aware that these incredible benefits were just a few touchpoints away, we wondered: how do we use the same manual manipulation techniques ourselves to garner results?

Enter: Dr. Ritu Chopra, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Co-Founder of Solvasa. Grab body oil and read on for a more sculpted physique.

Before I commit to this— how much time do I need?

That depends on what body part needs attention. 

“For facial massage, a home treatment can be done in as little as 3 minutes,” says Dr. Chopra. “Using a smooth rose quartz stone, such as the vibrating Solvasa Crystal Energy Wand, and an accompanying facial serum, puffiness from lymphatic congestion can be alleviated in a simple daily practice.”

For the full-body, on the other hand, 15 minutes will suffice. “Lymphatic massage cannot be rushed, but it can be done for as short a time as 15 minutes,” he says. “Simply elevating the swollen area while doing lymphatic massage helps tremendously.”

 

Besides body oil — what products and tools should I use?

While prepping for a self-massage, there are a few items that can create ease throughout your treatment. “You don’t want to abrade the skin by rubbing a non-lubricated hand firmly across it,” says Dr. Chopra. “Aids for lymphatic massage include wet washcloths, gauze, stones and rolling pins. Even a cold bottle of water is a great adjunct.” Using a paddle is another great option for eliminating puffiness. 

Pro Tip: hydrate, hydrate, hydrate with water before you begin (and avoid sugary and salty drinks as well as beverages with electrolytes), says Dr. Chopra.

Now, the fun part — massage time!

Here’s how to do lymphatic massage on the neck and underarms — but before you begin any gentle massaging, find your lymph nodes (FYI: there are hundreds in the body). 

Step 1:

Press on the main collection of lymph nodes (right and left lymphatic ducts at the front bottom of your neck near the collarbone) with two fingers each, using one hand for each side.

Step 2:

Keeping the pressure light, slightly stretch the skin down a few times.

Step 3:

Next, remove both hands and place your left hand under your right armpit.

Step 4:

Gently pulse your armpit upward, slowly, a few times. Repeat with the other hand on the other side.

Pro Tip: Move slowly (and again, gently!) throughout.

When you’re done, the last step involves more water. Drink up (at least) another two glasses!