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What is water retention
Water retention is a condition given byaccumulation of fluids in the tissues. This is not just a blemish, but the consequence of a slowing of circulation sanguine and lymphatic. In fact, when the microcirculation and blood circulation do not work properly, the metabolic waste produced by the cells are not removed and slowly pour into the extracellular space. The phenomenon leads to swelling and water retention and over time to an inflammatory state that damages the tissues, causing cellulite and orange peel skin.
It is mainly women who suffer from water retention and the phenomenon is of particular interest legs, thighs, buttocks and abdomen. Behind the water retention there are predisposing factors but also incorrect habits and behaviors. A’diet rich in salt it’s a too sedentary life, for example, they promote water retention. Similarly, wearing very tight and tight clothing, shoes with heels, suffering from constipation or being overweight can also cause or worsen the accumulation of fluids because they negatively affect the microcirculation.
How do you understand if you suffer from water retention? Often those with this problem have the feeling of having heavy and swollen legs, especially at the end of the day. By observing your body then, you may notice red areas. To the touch, some areas of the thighs or buttocks can be colder than the rest of the body and it can be hard to pinch the skin with your fingers. Finally, edema can be confirmed by pressing the skin with a fingertip: if a blank sign for several seconds where the pressure was applied, it is because that area of the body is swollen.
The draining massage is one of the main aesthetic treatments among those useful to eliminate excess fluids. Combined with proper nutrition, constant physical activity and adequate behaviors, this type of massage can give excellent results on the accumulation of liquids, which can also be appreciated in a short time.
Draining massage, what it is and benefits
The draining massage is an aesthetic treatment that aims to improve the functionality of the circulatory and lymphatic system. Also known as lymphatic drainage or lymphatic drainage massage, the drainage massage is useful to counteract the accumulation of fluids and, consequently, swelling in the lower limbs or belly, water retention and cellulite. This type of massage is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to eliminate toxins and in the medical field to reduce edema in other situations, for example in case of major circulatory dysfunctions or following surgery.
Although it is also possible to resort to do-it-yourself draining massages, consulting a professional guarantees better results. The treatment is usually performed in beauty centers or wellness centers by qualified personnel and consists of a localized massage on the legs and abdomen, areas of the body most affected by water retention. The purpose of the massage is to reactivate the circulation and “push” the accumulated liquids towards the lymph nodes, so that they are disposed of. For this purpose, the lower limbs are massaged upwards and the belly downwards, so that excess fluids can reach the lymph nodes located in the groin area.
The movements and pressures of the draining massage are light and delicate, therefore the treatment is pleasant, relaxing and not painful. Also, during the massage they are used vegetable oils often added with essential oils which, in addition to reducing friction, improve the appearance of the skin, promote relaxation and facilitate the drainage of liquids. They are often used in draining massage essences extracted from lemon, grapefruit, sweet orange and other citrus fruits, sometimes blended with mint and rosemary essential oils, diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
At the end of the draining massage, there is the sensation of have light legs, the swelling is less visible and you may need to pee. Long-term benefits are achieved after a few sessions; by combining proper nutrition and regular physical activity with the draining massage, it is possible to effectively combat water retention, swelling and cellulite.
Contraindications
The draining massage has no particular contraindications in people in good health and can also be practiced during pregnancy precisely to reduce swelling in the ankles and legs, typical in this period. However, the treatment is not recommended in case of skin problems, therefore dermatitis, inflammation, wounds, burns. Furthermore, in case of allergies, it is good to check which oils and essential oils are used during the massage. If you have Health problems, such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders or ongoing infections, it is advisable to consult your doctor and follow his indications before deciding to undergo a drainage massage or other treatments.
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