Cycles within Cycles
How the Lymphatic & Nervous Systems Work Together
Over the years, I’ve often shared the importance of keeping the lymphatic system healthy and how it supports every system in the body. What I don’t talk about enough is its close relationship with the brain and nervous system.
So let’s change that.
A healthy lymphatic system keeps the body in balance by clearing toxins, metabolic waste, and excess fluids while transporting nutrients and immune cells. But here’s the catch—your lymphatic health is deeply influenced by lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, movement, environment, and especially stress.
When the sympathetic nervous system (fight/flight/freeze/fawn) stays “on” for too long, the body shifts into survival mode. Digestion, detoxification, circulation, and even immunity take a back seat. The result? Mental fog, sluggish lymph flow, swelling, pain, poor digestion, toxic buildup, and an exhausting cycle of physical and mental stress.
The good news: by supporting both your lymphatic system and your nervous system, you create a calmer, more resilient foundation for health and healing.
Simple Practices to Support Lymphatic and Nervous System Health
Self-Lymph Drainage: Activate lymph flow by gently stimulating key nodes—clavicle, neck, armpits, abdomen, groin, and behind the knees. I also like to recommend gentle sternum tapping with slow breaths to help clear heaviness at the heart center.
Essential Oils: Chamomile, Cypress, Lavender, and Lemongrass can support lymphatic flow while calming the nervous system. Try diffusing them or blending with a carrier oil for topical use.
Dry Brushing: Use light, rhythmic strokes to boost circulation and lymphatic flow while also creating a relaxing, mindful ritual.
Slow Diaphragmatic Breathing: Deep belly breathing helps move lymph in the abdomen while activating the parasympathetic nervous system for calm and balance.
Hydration: Water is your best ally. Herbal teas like Tulsi Rose, Schisandra Detox, or Chamomile Lavender can further support detox and relaxation. I also love simmered cinnamon sticks or ginger root—simple, soothing, and effective.
Gentle Movement: Practices like Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Yin Yoga, or Restorative Yoga move lymph fluid, expand breath, and soothe the nervous system.
Rebounding: A few minutes a day of gentle bouncing stimulates lymphatic flow and circulation, giving both systems a boost.
Vibration Plate: Ten minutes a day leaves my legs feeling lighter and my body calmer. While studies are still inconclusive, my experience has been positive (maybe it’s just rocking me like a baby!).
Sleep: The body’s deepest cleaning, clearing, and healing happens in your sleep—proof that rest is essential for wellness.
By weaving these practices into your daily routine, you support detoxification, circulation, immunity, and emotional balance—all while giving your body the tools it needs to thrive.
Restorative Bodywork
Receiving bodywork ~ like lymphatic drainage, reiki, craniosacral therapy, massage, or other forms of therapeutic touch ~ can help shift the nervous system from a sympathetic (fight-or-flight) state into a parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) state.
This creates a space where the body and mind can relax, soften, and become more open to healing.
Until next time ~ rest well, move often, and keep your lymph flowing.
Lymphatically yours,
~Barb