A study published in Microscopic Research and Technique (Oct 15, 2021) states in no uncertain terms: “The lymphatic system serves as the primary route for the metastasis of many cancers and the extent of lymph node involvement is the most important indicator of tumor aggressiveness.”

If there is one system that directly impacts our immunity, it is the lymphatic system. Considered a secondary circulatory system only to the heart, the lymphatic system rids the body of toxic waste, bacteria, heavy metals, and excess fat. It is the liver’s partner in waste removal. Unlike blood, which is pumped by the heart, the lymphatic fluid has no pump. Instead, what moves the lymph through its many ducts and channels is simple exercise. To make lymph circulate, you must pump it by your own physical movement.

I’m a 38+ year Stage 4 cancer survivor, and I can tell you first-hand what it’s like to have to use a lymph pump day in and day out. That’s because I learned the hard way of the importance of keeping the lymphatic system in top shape. After surgical removal of lymph nodes in my groin, I had to drain the lymph from my leg every day and every night. I followed the instructions religiously, as I had no desire to lose my leg.

I’ve since learned that the build-up of lymph, called lymphedema is cancer’s dirty little secret—a little-known side effect with a huge impact on those of us who have had lymph nodes removed.

Keeping the lymph moving is not an option, it’s essential. Keeping your lymph moving is absolutely crucial for effective immune response and health organ functioning. Here’s how you can take control of your lymphatic health with some basic, easy and effective exercises.

Your Lymph Requires Movement

Our body’s lymphatic system does not have an organ like our heart that pumps blood around. Instead, it relies on muscle movement to circulate lymph fluid and help cleanse our system of harmful toxins that build up over time, leading to numerous health concerns. By including lymphatic exercises into your routine, you can help detoxify, strengthen immunity, and promote overall well-being in a relatively easy manner.

• Walking: The Easiest DIY Lymph Booster. Walking is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stimulate lymph drainage. Aim for at least 30 minutes daily of moderate walking outdoors as a gentle form of therapy with minimal joint impact – perfect for all age groups and fitness levels! If you can, walk barefoot on the ground and take advantage of the many benefits of grounding/earthing. Renowned cardiologist Stephen Sinatra, MD had this to say about the benefits of earthing: “Reduction in inflammation as a result of earthing has been documented with infrared medical imaging and with measurements of blood chemistry and white blood cell counts.”
• Cycling to Detoxify. Riding my bike is one of my favorite pastimes; not only is it great for my lymphatic system but it can be equally beneficial to cardiovascular health. From stationary bikes and outdoor cycling to indoor spin classes, cycling helps move lymph through your body efficiently. Aim for 20-30 minutes of cycling several times each week or as often as you can manage.
• Trampoline Fun: Rebound Your Way to Health. Jumping on a mini-trampoline (also known as rebounding) can be an enjoyable and low-impact way to promote lymphatic flow. It works by opening and closing one-way valves within your lymphatic system, increasing circulation. Begin slowly each day and increase as your comfort grows – rebounding brings out your inner child!

Final Thoughts

Remember, your lymphatic system plays an integral role in supporting overall body health. Small daily habits can lead to significant health benefits. Make walking, rebounding or cycling – whatever works best for you — a part of your daily routine. Your body will thank you!

Resources:

Swartz MA, Skobe M. Lymphatic function, lymphangiogenesis, and cancer metastasis. Microsc Res Tech. 2001 Oct 15;55(2):92-9. doi: 10.1002/jemt.1160. PMID: 11596154.

Riquet M. Cancer bronchique: le drainage lymphatique [Lung cancer and lymph drainage]. Cancer Radiother. 2007 Jan-Feb;11(1-2):4-10. French. doi: 10.1016/j.canrad.2006.07.005. Epub 2006 Aug 22. PMID: 16928459.

Nakamura Y, Fujisawa Y, Okiyama N, Watanabe R, Tanaka R, Ishitsuka Y, Fujimoto M, Tahara H. Reply: Lymph stasis promotes tumor growth. J Dermatol Sci. 2018 Jun;90(3):367-368. doi: 10.1016/j.jdermsci.2018.02.011. Epub 2018 Feb 15. PMID: 29487021.

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