Body = Lymphatic System
Lymphatic flow stands as the cornerstone of optimal health and well-being, acting as a linchpin for recovery from ailments. The Lymphatic System takes center stage when we delve into the profound realm of the "Body" pillar.Why consider the lymphatic system?
While often underestimated, the lymphatic system assumes an indispensable role in the symphony of detoxification, immunity, and release. Its significance transcends convention, holding the key to rejuvenation and balance.
Understanding the lymphatic system provides insight into the body’s profound ability to nourish and detoxify itself. This system is responsible for removing waste and regulating your immune system and is your body’s biggest drain. If the drains become blocked, your lymph is unable to flow.
The lymphatic system is a network of delicate tubes throughout the body. It is twice as big as the arterial blood system and perhaps twice as important. It drains fluid (called lymph) that has leaked from the blood vessels into the tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream via the lymph nodes.
Another important function is its role in defending against invading microorganisms and diseases. Lymph nodes and other lymphatic organs filter the lymph to remove microorganisms and other foreign particles e.g. cancer cells, viruses, bacteria etc. So basically it is your Immune System!
The main roles of the lymphatic system include:
- managing the fluid levels in the body;
- reacting to bacteria, virus or inflammation;
- dealing with cancer cells;
- dealing with cell products that otherwise would result in disease or disorders;
- absorbing some of the fats in our diet from the intestine.
To simplify how the Lymphatic System functions, think of the fluid that is sitting in your tissues is the fluid in a fish bowl. The fish (being your cells) will be happy and healthy if the water is clean. If the water is not filtered, it will become cloudy and full of by-products, and the fish’s overall health will decline. Filtering the water and removing the waste, improves the health of the fish just as it is important for our cells!
Emotion/Spirit:
Though we consider the lymphatic system as the “body” of our four pillars, it is still important to understand the emotional aspects of how it affects this system.
Often our environment, what we eat and how often we move can impact on how this system functions. Emotions and stress can also impact how this fluid moves.
Research has shown psychological stress can adversely affect the lymph system:
- by changing the actual physical structures and functioning of the lymph;
- on children’s developing immune systems which include: weakened immune responsiveness and increased incidence of childhood diseases such as asthma.
- Studies of trauma survivors, by trauma specialists like Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, document the physiological ways in which the lymph cell behavior changes, after exposure to trauma and abuse.
“The lymphatic system can be where we “let go” of stored emotions”
Recognizing the crucial role of the lymphatic system is key to understanding how the body processes and releases emotions. Inspired by the insights of Louise Hay, a trailblazer in linking emotions with health, we learn that issues with our lymphatic system signal a deeper need for mental alignment towards life’s core values: love and joy. The lymphatic fluid, while flowing in a singular direction within the body, reflects the intricate connection between our emotional well-being and physical health. This system demonstrates that emotions like worry, anger, and grief, when not addressed, can lead to physical symptoms such as congestion and inflammation. This is akin to how the body retains fluids when it is in a state of imbalance. Therefore, by encouraging the release of these pent-up emotions, we facilitate not just the movement of lymphatic fluid but also the healing process of our emotional selves.
When we create a positive, loving environment for ourselves, appreciate and support ourselves, and maintain a healthy self-esteem our lymphatic system flows efficiently.
“It is essential to develop a strong self-esteem, self-appreciation, and connection to restore the lymphatic system and our inner power.”