
Physiology 101: the lymphatic system
Do you recall the human bodies exhibit which went around the country a few years back? What was so cool about this exhibit was the meticulous demonstration of the circulatory system, what seemed like an endless network of arteries and veins in the body. Imagine for a moment a similar network called the lymphatic system. This complex network essentially helps to rid the body of toxins, metabolic waste and other unwanted materials.
Signs of lymphatic stagnation include feeling sluggish, tired, bloated, experiencing constipation, inflammation and skin issues such as dryness. To circulate properly, the lymphatic system depends on body movements. Remote work anyone? A sedentary and inactive lifestyle significantly compromises the health of the lymphatic system thereby quelling itsʼ detoxification pathways. Coupled with poor environmental and lifestyle habits yields a build up of toxins in the body thereby increasing the risk for disease. Critical to the immune system, a healthy lymphatic system is thus a vital component in disease prevention and health maintenance.
How to activate the lymphatic flow and mitigate the transport of nutrients and waste material? Walking, swimming, yoga, Taiʼ Chi and jumping jacks all work. I prefer to channel Rocky Balboa and jump rope. The up and down motion of jump rope helps to stimulate the bodyʼs natural lymphatic drainage resulting in improved gastrointestinal and skin health. Additionally, jump rope improves balance, strength, agility and flexibility. I happen to find it incredibly meditative.
Just about any jump rope is a great place to start. My quest for the perfect jump rope companion led me to Crossrope, the Bloomingdales of jump ropes. The weighted jump ropes are durable and the workout app is so versatile that it keeps things interesting. My husband and son have totally caught the jumping rope fever. Thank you COVID for getting me off the treadmill at the gym and onto my jump rope mat. As Rocky would say “Life’s not about how hard of a hit you can give… it’s about how many you can take, and still keep moving forward.”