How does Shiatsu help the lymphatic system in Vence?
Shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique that uses:
- Finger pressure (acupressure-like touch)
- Palms and gentle stretching
- Energy balancing through meridians
The lymphatic system has no pump (like the heart for blood), so it relies on movement and external stimulation to function properly.
Shiatsu helps by:
Opening lymphatic pathways to remove blockages.
Encouraging fluid movement with rhythmic pressure.
Activating meridians related to detoxification (Spleen, Kidney, and Liver Meridians).
Relaxing muscles, allowing better lymph flow.
Best Shiatsu Techniques for Lymphatic Drainage
1️⃣ Gentle Pressing on Key Lymphatic Areas
- Apply soft pressure to neck, collarbone, underarms, and groin (major lymph nodes).
- This helps flush out toxins and excess fluids.
2️⃣ Stretching & Rocking Movements
- Slow rocking motions encourage fluid movement.
- Stretching opens blocked meridians for better circulation.
3️⃣ Stimulating Acupressure Points (Tsubo Points)
- SP-6 (Spleen 6) → Helps detoxification & water retention.
- KID-1 (Kidney 1) → Boosts elimination of toxins.
- LI-4 (Large Intestine 4) → Supports drainage & immune function.
4️⃣ Belly Massage for Detox & Digestion
- The abdomen has many lymph nodes.
- Circular palm movements improve digestion and toxin removal.
Who Can Benefit from Shiatsu for Lymphatic Health?
✅ People with swelling or fluid retention (edema).
✅ Those recovering from surgery or injury.
✅ People with poor circulation or immune weakness.
✅ Anyone feeling sluggish or needing detox.
When to Avoid?
- If you have acute infections, fever, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- If you have cancer or lymphedema, consult a doctor first.
Shiatsu vs. Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Aspect |
Shiatsu |
Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD) |
Focus | Energy balance & pressure points | Gentle, rhythmic strokes for lymph flow |
Techniques | Acupressure, stretching, palm pressing | Light touch, pumping movements |
Best For | Detox, energy flow, reducing tension | Swelling, post-surgery recovery, fluid removal |
Effectiveness | Great for overall lymph support | Best for serious lymphatic blockages |
For severe lymphatic issues, MLD is better. But for general detox and lymph health, Shiatsu works great!
Blue Tree Massage operates in our treatment room in Saint Paul de Vence, and at your home on the French Riviera, mainly in the Alpes Maritimes, in the principal towns along the coast (Cannes, Antibes, Cagnes Sur Mer, Nice, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche, Monaco, Menton…) as well as further inland (Mougins, Grasse, Valbonne, Biot, Roquefort les pins, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Vence…).