Everything You Need To Know About Lymphatic Drainage

What is a lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage consists of gentle, repetitive strokes to facilitate the lymphatic system. Sometimes referred to as a ‘detox massage’, it is a specialised massage that supports your body’s internal filtration system and keep your immune system in check. By stimulating the lymphatic glands using massage, excess fluid is drained from the body, and directed back into the bloodstream where it can then be flushed out through your kidneys.

What makes Flavia’s methods so special?

Flavia herself created the ‘Flavia Morellato Method’, which prides itself on being different to the conventional Vodder techniques, commonly associated with lymphatic drainage, by using an adaptation of physiotherapeutic manoeuvres and strokes. Innovative in it’s holistic approach, her method optimises lymphatic flow while respecting the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system. “Unlike traditional methods”, Flavia explains, “this approach is designed to maximise the efficiency of lymphatic flow. The unique combination of techniques and strokes employed in this method is tailored to stimulate the movement of lymph fluid through the vessels, nodes, and tissues. This optimisation can lead to immediate lightness sensation, reduced swelling, enhanced detoxification, and improved immune, circulatory and digestive systems functioning.”

Flavia’s method focuses heavily on the gut, and as someone who struggles with food intolerances this was a huge pull for me. It is especially helpful for those who are pregnant or have just had a baby, those who suffer from digestive disorders (such as IBS), and for anyone who suffers from swelling, puffiness, and bloating.

How often are they recommended?

Flavia recommends that “while a general guideline is once a week for healthy individuals, the frequency of lymphatic drainage massage should be tailored to the client’s needs, underlying conditions, and response to the treatment. A personalised treatment plan can optimise the benefits of lymphatic drainage massage as a complementary therapy for overall well-being and specific health goals.”

How much does a session cost?

Flavia’s Harvey Nichols appointments start at £180, up to £280, while a home visit cost £180.

This writer’s lymphatic drainage review:

When trying to book a lymphatic drainage massage in London, we’re spoiled for choice. With the option of home visits or centrally located salons in Knightsbridge and Belgravia, the team at Flavia Morellato really cater for all schedules. The Harvey Nichols location could not be more convenient for me, and as I made my way up to the 4th floor I kept checking my ‘before’ in the mirror. The thought that I’d be returning to the shop floor toxin-free meant my expectations were high.

What does it feel like?

My therapist Fernanda could not have been more welcoming and attentive. The room itself was clean and luxe, making my self-care Sunday feel extra special. Fernanda walked me through some general questions about my overall health, and what I wanted to achieve from the session. After undressing and laying down on the table, my modesty preserved with some ultra-soft towels, Fernanda began by pressing on my lymph nodes along my collarbone, and sweeping the movements along my neck and décolletage.

Moving from each arm to my abdomen, the focus on my stomach felt like a strange pressure feeling, but also very relieving. It was so satisfying to feel the movement in my usually very bloated stomach! From there each leg was was tended to, with long heavy stokes that made my tired muscles feel rejuvenated.

Finally laying on my front, the last part of the massage across my upper back made me as relaxed as could be, and I could have very happily had a little snooze. The whole 55 minutes really made me switch off and get out of my head, and feeling grateful to do something good for my body.

What happens afterwards?

Once Fernanda had finished up, I could immediately feel a lightness in my legs and my stomach felt much calmer. I was advised to up my water intake- which surprised me, as I try to drink 2 litres a day- as my fast metabolism meant that I absorbed the massage lotion quickly, and likely was dehydrated. I was so appreciative of her feedback, and she also suggested I increase my fibre intake to help the massage to aid my digestion well into the following week.

Is it worth it?

Considering the varying results, this treatment is something everyone can benefit from, but might not be the choice for those wanting a significant debloating transformation. For anyone struggling with gut issues, it could be a great reset to get everything back on track. And those looking to take some well-earned me time would find the whole experience very relaxing, generally promoting a greater sense of well-being. Taking the higher price tag into account, this would be a session to book every few months, especially after holidays when indulging that little bit more.