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Guided Breath Meditation | BalanceWithBabz

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Meditation for focus & concentration | 7.5 minutes

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Meditation for a calm & creative mind | 9 minutes

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Meditation for a calm & creative mind | 9 minutes

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Intuitive Eating with Gina & Erin | #balancewithbabz

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The role of the diaphragm in lymphatic absorption from the peritoneal cavity.

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How does the diaphragm help them lymphatic system? ￼

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How does the diaphragm help them lymphatic system? ￼

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The role of the diaphragm in lymphatic absorption from the peritoneal cavity.

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Lymphatics in the diaphragm form a specialised system draining fluid from the peritoneal cavity and returning it to the vascular system. Fluid enters subperitoneal lymphatic lacunae, between muscle fibres of the diaphragm, the lacunae being separated ...

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The Role of Deep Breathing and Exercise in the Prevention and Management of Lymphedema - Cancer Exercise Training Institute

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Breathing to decrease risk of Lymphedema 

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Breathing to decrease risk of Lymphedema 

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Unlike the heart in the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have an active pump to propel lymphatic fluid back to the bloodstream. Effective lymph flow depends on sufficient muscle and joint activity, especially if the functionality of the lymphatic system is compromised

The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the human body. It drains the lower extremities, pelvis, abdomen, left side of the thorax, left upper extremity, and left side of the head and neck. Around 75% of the lymph from the entire body. The right lymphatic duct drains the right upper limb, right breast, right lung and right side of the head and neck.

The thoracic duct extends from the twelfth thoracic vertebrae to the root of the neck. The thoracic duct is formed from the abdominal confluence (juncture) of the left and right lumbar lymph trunks, as well as the left and right intestinal lymph trunks between T12 and L2.

The lymph transport in the thoracic duct is mainly caused by the action of breathing aided by the duct's smooth muscle and by internal valves which prevent the lymph from flowing back down again.

Abdominal (diaphragmatic) breathing exercises are a valuable tool in stimulating deep lymphatic structures, such as the cisterna chyli, the abdominal part of the thoracic duct, lumbar trunks, and lumbar lymph nodes, pelvic lymph nodes, and certain organ systems.

Lymph fluid from the lower extremities passes through these deep lymphatic structures and an increased flow of lymph, particularly in the thoracic duct, results in improved lymphatic drainage from the lower extremities. Individuals affected by lymphedema greatly benefit from diaphragmatic breathing exercises, especially when combined with a comprehensive decongestive exercise regimen.

Stimulation of these deep lymphatic structures, in particular the thoracic duct (the largest lymph vessel in the body), accelerates the transport of lymph fluid toward the venous angles (15), through which the lymph fluid is returned into the blood circulatory system.

The up and down movement of the diaphragm during deep abdominal breathing is an essential component for the sufficient return of lymphatic fluid back to the bloodstream.

The movement of the diaphragm, combined with the outward and inward movements of the abdomen, assist in the return of venous blood back to the heart.

Another issue that may play an indirect role in the occurrence and severity of lymphedema is pectoralis minor syndrome. It is characterized by axillary vein obstruction below the clavicle, provoked by compression from the pectoralis minor muscle. Clinical presentation is portrayed as pain, weakness, cyanosis, numbness, paresthesia, and swelling of the upper extremity. It is considered as a subset of thoracic outlet syndrome.

A shortened pec minor (injury, surgery, radiation, breathing dysfunction, or anterior/posterior muscle imbalance), can lead to upper-crossed syndrome (forward head and rounded shoulders). This action is called protraction and is opposed by the muscles of retraction such as the middle trapezius and the rhomboids. Commonly the pectoralis minor becomes hypertonic and the middle trapezius becomes inhibited. Release of the pectoralis minor followed by strengthening of the middle trapezius can be very effective in improving posture as well as minimizing any associated pain from related ischemia. Because the pectoralis minor rounds the shoulder, it is opposed by the latissimus dorsi. Strengthening the latissimus dorsi can be invaluable in correcting posture as well as improving shoulder range of motion.

Incorporating a gentle stretching routine that is designed to stretch tight (hypertonic) muscles as well as open lymphatic pathways, may minimize the vein obstruction and allow for improved lymphatic flow.

Scar tissue is another culprit that may not present for 1.5-2 years post surgery and radiation. Unlike superficial wounds, surgical scar tissue doesn't just exist on the surface of the body. Scar tissue can extend from the skin all the way down to bones and organs. Sometimes these scars become hard and fibrotic and obstruct lymphatic circulation. Working with a PT or OT who can assist with scar tissue massage and manipulation can be very helpful in preventing the onset of lymphedema and/or minimizing symptoms.

As part of the Cancer Exercise Training Institute's comprehensive oncology exercise training, health and fitness professionals learn recommended lymph drainage exercises, appropriate incorporation of cardiovascular, balance, range of motion, and strength training exercises, and proper exercise progression to ensure the safety and efficacy of the exercise program.

Students also learn about the acute and chronic side-effects of cancer surgery and treatment and how they can be prevented or minimized with the proper exercise prescription. To learn more please visit CETI.teachable.com

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The Role of Deep Breathing and Exercise in the Prevention and Management of Lymphedema - Cancer Exercise Training Institute

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Unlike the heart in the blood circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have an active pump to propel lymphatic fluid back to the bloodstream. Effective lymph flow depends on sufficient muscle and joint activity, especially if the functionality of the lymphatic system is compromised The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the human [...]

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Deep Breathing and the Lymphatic System - Lymphatic Yoga® Online Studio

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Deep breathing and the Lymphatic System are closely connected. However, the art of deep breathing goes beyond technique or mechanical movement. Breathing is our source of life. Breathing patterns also reflect the quality of life.

For instance, shallow breathing both under-oxygenates the body and creates physical and mental stress, which are triggered by the accumulation of toxins in the body. Shallow breathing slowly kills us as accumulated toxins overload our body. On the other hand, deep breathing heals us.

There are two functions that support the flow of the lymphatic system: skeletal muscle motion and deep breathing. While skeletal muscle motion is considered a major pump for the lymphatic system, the deep breathing is equally important. Or even more important.

Deep Breathing Or Diaphragmatic Breathing Is The Changing Factor In Lymphatic Flow

According to Dr. Foldi, the motion of lymphatic fluid within the large lymph vessels is not constant. However, it is "clearly dependent upon respiration" ("Foldi's Textbook of Lymphology for Physicians and Lymphedema Therapists" - 2nd edition, p 551 )

Dr. Foldi goes on to say that inhalation helps fluid return in the superior vena cava (where the lymph fluid is dumped into the heart). Nevertheless, fluid return from the legs "is inhibited by inhalation because of the downward motion of the diaphragm in the abdominal area." However, "during exhalation the cisterna chyli empties into the thoracic duct, allowing lymph to flow, in the next inhalation, to the venous angle" (which includes the superior vena cava).

The return of the lymph caused by inhalation and exhalation, at the same time, creates a suction effect that drains lymph from the legs, as Dr. Foldi also asserts. She also mentions that venous return works in a similar way.

In addition,Dr. Jack W. Shields, M.D., from California conducted a study at the 7th International Congress of Lymphology (Florence, Italy/1979) that settled the debate about the main propulsion of lymph flow - deep diaphragmatic breathing. He had the largest lymph vessel - the thoracic duct - photographed while a person was walking and jogging on a treadmill and also taking a deep breath out of the treadmill. The deep breathing out of the treadmill caused the thoracic duct to "shoot like a geyser" while the lymphatic flow slightly increased on the treadmill.

"Deep diaphragmatic breathing stimulates the cleansing of the lymph system by creating a vacuum effect which pulls the lymph through the bloodstream" ~ according to Dr. Jack W. Shields, M.D., Lymph, lymph glands, and homeostasis. Lymphology, v25, n4, Dec. 1992, p. 147

Deep Breathing Effectively Allows Lymph Flow

It is important to know that our lungs are unable to move air in and out without an external stimulus. The skillful art of breathing depends mainly on the usage of the large muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen - the diaphragm.

During deep breathing, inhalation occurs by the contraction of the diaphragm that flattens and goes down towards the abdominal organs. Inhalation is an active movement, in which the internal organs are being pressed by the diaphragm. Consequently, the abdomen goes slightly forward.

Exhalation, on the other hand, is normally a passive movement. During exhalation, the diaphragm releases the abdominal pressure caused by the inhalation. It relaxes. At the same time, the diaphragm lifts and squeeze the lungs while it returns to its natural dome-like shape.

Both inhalation and exhalation produce a natural massage on the internal organs. Deep breathing does improve the functionality of the abdominal organs. But it also rhythmically squeezes and releases - as in a pumping motion - the lymphatic system throughout all abdominal organs.

Deep breathing and the Lymphatic System work in unity since long and slow breathing effectively promotes lymph flow. Deep breathing also especially assists those with lipedema and lymphedema. It helps eliminate toxins, improve metabolism, assist the intestinal lymph nodes to absorb fat, and also boosts the body's immune system.

Deep breathing promotes health and healing because it helps to reduce lymphatic stasis.

Exhalation Is More Important Than Inhalation

In addition, there is more to deep breathing than meets the eye. Ultimately, to breathe deeply is to focus on the exhalation. All respiration starts with a careful and complete exhalation is an ancient motto.

Though it may appear counterintuitive, exhalation was always considered by ancient breathing practices from China, Japan, and India as the most important phase of breathing.

A full exhalation becomes a pre-requisite to a correct and more complete breathing pattern, according to Andre Van Lysebeth - yoga master and pioneer in Europe. The simple reason is that any receptacle can only be filled after being emptied. ("J'apprends Le Yoga" - Flammarion)

Unless a complete exhalation is done it is impossible to breathe in deeply, according to Van Lysebeth.

How To Do It?

A complete exhalation is accomplished with a gradual contraction of the abdominal muscles at the end of each exhalation. This helps the diaphragm lift and squeeze out most of the residual air of the lungs. Sequentially, a deep full inhalation can be easily accomplished.

A slow, long and silent exhalation also is the best way to breathe out. It truly cleanses, sustains, calms, and nourishes us.

Our goal is to learn how to pump the Lymphatic System more efficiently through correct deep breathing, through becoming aware of the importance of the exhalation, and through remembering to breathe deeply anywhere, without tension and stress. Deep breathing is our savior tool to restore and maintain health because our deep breathing and the Lymphatic System are one.

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Deep Breathing and the Lymphatic System - Lymphatic Yoga® Online Studio

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Deep breathing and the Lymphatic System are closely connected. However, the art of deep breathing goes beyond technique or mechanical movement. Breathing is our source of life. Breathing patterns also reflect the quality of life. For instance, shallow breathing both under-oxygenates the body and creates physical and mental stress, which are triggered by the accumulation of toxins in the body.