Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Gentle • Detoxifying • Restorative
What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized, gentle massage technique designed to support the body’s lymphatic system — the network responsible for filtering toxins, removing waste, and maintaining healthy fluid balance. Unlike traditional massage, MLD uses slow, rhythmic, and precise hand movements to stimulate lymph flow just beneath the skin. This deeply calming treatment promotes relaxation while helping the body feel lighter, less congested, and more energized.
Sessions can focus on specific areas of concern, such as swollen legs or post-surgical sites, or be carried out as a full-body treatment. For complete rejuvenation, a 90-minute session is often recommended.
How Does It Work?
By encouraging lymph fluid to flow more freely, MLD helps to reduce swelling (oedema), eliminate metabolic waste, and enhance circulation. The technique also activates the parasympathetic nervous system — the body’s “rest and digest” state — which promotes deep relaxation, reduces stress, and supports natural healing processes.
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
MLD offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits, including:
- Reduced Swelling & Water Retention: Alleviates puffiness in legs, ankles, and other areas.
- Detoxification: Aids the removal of toxins and cellular waste from the body.
- Immune System Support: Stimulates lymph nodes, enhancing your body’s natural defences.
- Faster Recovery: Supports healing from surgery, injuries, and certain medical conditions.
- Improved Skin Health: Encourages tissue renewal, leaving skin looking healthier and refreshed.
- Deep Relaxation: Calms the nervous system, easing fatigue, stress, and mental tension.
Who can benefit from it?
Manual lymphatic drainage is beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including:
- Those with Fluid Retention: Swelling caused by prolonged sitting, standing, or hormonal changes.
- Post-Surgical Patients: Helps reduce post-operative oedema and promotes healing (always check with your surgeon or GP first).
- Individuals Recovering from Injuries: Assists with reducing swelling and stiffness.
- People with Chronic Conditions: Provides relief for lymphedema and other lymph-related issues (with medical approval).
- Pregnant Women: A safe, gentle way to ease swelling, fatigue, and heaviness during pregnancy.
- Anyone Seeking Detox & Relaxation: Ideal for people wanting to feel lighter, more energized, and deeply relaxed.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is both a therapeutic and restorative experience — supporting the body’s natural detoxification process while bringing profound calm and balance.
📌 Please note that MLD is offered exclusively as a 60- or 90-minute treatment — 30-minute sessions are not available.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) FAQs
1. Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage painful?
No — MLD is a very light, soothing massage that feels gentle and relaxing. Many people even find it deeply calming.
2. Is MLD safe?
Yes, MLD is generally very safe. It’s a gentle technique that supports your body’s natural healing processes by helping your immune system work more efficiently.
3. How soon will I see results?
Many people notice reduced puffiness, less swelling, and a lighter feeling in their body right away, while others see results after a few sessions, depending on their individual response.
4. Are there any contraindications?
• Severe, uncontrolled cardiac insufficiency
• Superior vena cava obstruction
• Unstable hypertension
• Renal failure
• Liver cirrhosis (especially in the presence of ascites)
• Acute infection / erysipelas
Acute or suspected (untreated) deep vein
thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
5. Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage safe during pregnancy?
MLD can be very beneficial during pregnancy, especially for reducing swelling in the legs and ankles. If you have any doubts, ask your midwife or GP first.