New Age Gathering

Lymphatic System


Lymphatic System
----------------
The lymphatic system is used to bring nourishment to cells
and to remove wastes. The lymph nodes, located in the lymph
vessels, break down toxins. The breakdown of toxins is
especially important during infections and other acute
illnesses. Deep breathing and movement help keep the lymph
moving through the lymph vessels.

Lymph cleanses are often recommended during or after acute
illnesses or after an extended period of inactivity.

i. Simple Cleansing Ideas
----------------------
1. Regular exercise (e.g., walking) is an excellant way
to keep the lymphatic system from stagnating.
However, if exercise cannot be performed due to your
condition (e.g., CFIDS), then refer to the "Yoga" chapter
for ideas (including breathing
exercises).

2. Deep breathing exercises should be performed to help
keep the lymphatic system moving (e.g., pranayama/
yogic breathing, Hendricks breathwork, holotropic
breathwork).

3. A whole body massage is a great way to revive a
stagnant lymphatic system. If you can afford it,
definately give it a try!

4. Lymphatic Cleansing Tea (Dr. Hobbs):

1/2 part Red root
1 part Red clover tops
1/2 part Echinacea root
1 part Lemon peel
1/4 part Ginger root

Simmer 2 ounces (1 part) of herbs in 10 ounces (5
parts) of spring water for 20 minutes. Strain and
drink 1/2 cup twice per day.

ii. Norman Walker Detoxification
----------------------------
This is a cleanse that was used by early 20th century
American healers with great success. It is an excellant
cleanse to perform in the Spring if you are not very weak.

Cleanse Summary
---------------
The cleanse is basically a three-day fresh vegetable and
juice fast with the addition of a saline solution to draw
toxic matter (i.e., excess mucus) into the intestine.
In cases of constipation, a colonic or an herbal laxative
(i.e., Arise & Shine's Atomic Blockbuster) may be used to
keep the toxins from being reabsorbed.

Additional activities include daily skin brushing (see
Skin Cleanse above).

Optional add-ons to the cleanse include daily yoga
and/or meditation, abdominal massage, breathing
exercises to loosen the diaphram area, plenty of
support, nuturing/relaxation, and enjoyment.

Detailed instructions for performing the cleanse can be
found in the following books:

School of Natural Healing
by John R. Christopher
Biworld, Provo, Utah, c1976

Raw Vegetable Juices
by Norman Walker
Norwalk Press

Rather than rehashing what Norman Walker says in his
book, I will add my own ideas and suggestions to his
excellant program:

1. Fasting
-------
This fast should not be performed by persons who are
weak or who have any kind of food addiction or who
tend to eat for emotional reasons. For more
information on fasting correctly, please read books
by Paavo Airola such as "Are You Confused?"

2. Pre-Fast
--------
Three days before the cleanse, begin reducing the
amount of heavy foods in your diet (meat, grains,
legumes) and move gradually towards more fruits,
cooked vegetables, broths, a small amount of easily
digestible grain products.

3. Post-Fast
---------
It is absolutely crucial not to immediately begin
eating a normal diet after the fast. It should take
your three days to gradually build up to your normal
diet. The first day after the fast should consist
of only fruit, well-cooked vegetables, broths,
juices, and herbal teas. Begin adding rice cream
and sea vegetables (i.e., wakame, kelp) on the second
day after the fast. Do not add soy products (i.e.,
tempeh) or legumes until the third day after the fast
and then only eat a very small portion.

4. Hunger
------
During the cleanse, you will be getting nutrients
from the juices, broths, and teas. A 3-day fast
is *not* starvation. Thousands of people,
including myself, have safely performed fasts of
over two weeks.

You may experience times of hunger, especially
during the first two days. The following ideas
may help you through those times:

a. Be certain to get sufficient amounts of liquids,
including juices, teas, broths, and water.

b. H.A.L.T. -- It is important to avoid getting too
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired. Remedy these
situations *long before* they cause you to want
to reach for the food.

c. Spend time doing relaxing, enjoyable activities.

Rebuilding & Strengthening
--------------------------
1. Regular moderate exercise if the condition allows,
otherwise see "Yoga" chapter for other ideas.

2. Deep Breathing -- See "Yoga" chapter and Hendricks
Breathing Exercises in "Emotional Healing" chapter.

3. A massage from time to time.

Posted by Cougar Tuesday, June 13, 2006 (16:01:33)