Swollen face-what's next?
Lymphatic stasis is a very common problem. A swollen face is one of the most common challenges my clients face. This is why, I believe that working with proper lymphatic flow is fundamental and one of the most important factors in what happens to the face over time. Often there is a deformity of the face that takes on a swollen appearance that in no way resembles what it looked like years ago. See what causes this and how you can get rid of puffiness from your face.
The lymphatic system and its role
The main role of the lymph is to carry away by-products of metabolism and toxins. As we age, for various reasons, the lymphatic system functions less and less efficiently. The lymph does not have its typical pump, unlike the blood, which is pumped by the heart. Hence its poorer and less efficient circulation. It circulates thanks to the movement of muscles, which is why it is referred to as a „muscle pump” in this case. Thanks to the movement of the muscles, the lymph is pumped, which is why it is worthwhile to keep the whole body physically active.
You have probably woken up more than once with a swollen face and body. During the night, we move very little, and in fact the only concrete movement is made by the chest during breathing. However, this is not enough for the lymph to circulate sufficiently.
Certainly, frequent bacterial, viral and fungal infections play a very large role in the impairment of the lymphatic system. Sometimes a parasite infection will also be reflected in lymphatic retention and swelling of the body. Infections cause disturbances in the structure and function of the lymph nodes and lymphatic pathways in particular. As a result, the tissues are swollen and full from excess body fluids and toxins. If this situation occurs over a prolonged period of time, permanent changes occur that also cause changes in appearance. Often we can see this type of incident in the eye and chin area, also the nasolabial furrows can be much more marked by the fluid collecting in the fold highlighting the furrow. .
Of great importance for lymphatic retention are the hypertonus muscles associated with the neck, neck and shoulder area. If the muscles are very tense, even hard as a rock, the lymph from the face and neck has no way of flowing into the main lymphatic vessels. In such a situation, exercises to correct the whole posture, visits to a physiotherapist to help relieve tension and relaxation techniques such as meditation, walking, etc. are essential.
Certain diseases such as cancer, including lymph node removals, mechanical damage, diseases and hormonal disorders cause obstructed lymphatic movement.
It also happens that the whole face is swollen. To the untrained eye, swelling is not difficult to mistake for excess fatty tissue. If the swelling persists for a very long time, at least in the eye area, this can lead to a permanent change due to the formation of a hernia. Once this has occurred, it is virtually impossible to reverse, at most the appearance of the area can only be partially improved. A second chin and an unattractive outline of the jaw are also very often caused by lymphatic stasis. The problem of a malfunctioning lymphatic system is not just about the mere appearance, i.e. swelling of the tissues, but also, one could simply say, the poisoning of the entire body with toxins that are not efficiently drained to the downstream pathways responsible for their excretion. This will obviously accelerate the body's ageing processes. .
How to fix lymphatic flow in the face? Muscle work and movement
In order for the lymphatic transport to take place properly, the so-called muscle pump, in other words the work and movement of the muscles, is essential for this. This is of course not only important for the face itself, but also applies to the entire body. Therefore, movement, i.e. physical activity, is very important for the way we feel and look. It is a well-known fact that the face or head is not a separate element, but one of the many that make up and function together in the human body. Therefore, in order for the entire lymphatic system to function efficiently, the whole body, including the face, needs to be physically active. Facial exercises are very helpful. With them, the lymph is much better transported through its pathways. Appropriate massages and lymphatic drainage are also very important. Many of these can be done on your own, but it is also worthwhile to regularly visit qualified specialists in facial and body massages and drains. It is comforting to know that as long as there are no major health problems or disorders, you can do a lot about it yourself 🙂 .
How to eliminate lymphatic stasis? A few rules:
1 Enter a detox for a few days. If your lymph is circulating badly, there's a good chance you have a lot of toxins in your body. For more on detoxing, see the article Basic principles of detoxification.
2. limit your salt intake. Salt retains fluids.
3. preferably give up dairy altogether.
4. increase the amount of water you drink. Water flushes the body and contrary to appearances - the more we drink, the less swelling we have. Remember, however, that it should only be warm water, which cranks up the metabolism and aids the cleansing process.
5 Introduce at least moderate whole-body movement on a permanent basis. Daily gymnastics of a few minutes will not only improve the whole body, but will also move the blood and lymph circulation.
6. adopt as a golden rule a daily facial massage, including the irreplaceable chinese bubble.
7 Change your sleeping position. If your problem is facial swelling then positioning your head a little higher while sleeping can be very helpful. Also, changing your position from lying on your stomach or side - to your back or using a anti-wrinkle cushion, which protects facial tissues from pressure can be very helpful.
8. exercise your face at least once a day. Facial yoga will not only improve lymphatic circulation, but will also strengthen muscles accordingly or relax overly tense ones.
Swollen face - exercises
I share two universal exercises that can help almost anyone. Of course, every face is different, and each person requires an individual approach, so it is best to seek personalised advice. If you don't have this option, it is worth introducing a daily massage according to the „neck acupressure” description below and the „wow” exercise, in addition to the above principles.
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Author of the entry: Marfa Kusinska-Bielecka - certified teacher of facial yoga by the method of Face Yoga, author of the book "beauty yoga", yogi, Ayurvedic consultant III degree, biologist, fashion designer.
I teach women to stay young and feel good for a long time.