Episode 1 of Breathwork for the lymphatic system

Episode 1 of the Breathwork and Lymphatic Wellness Class with Kathleen Helen CLT author of Stress Reduction for Lymphedema.
Watch episode 2 here: • Episode 2 of Breathwor...
Let's look at the physiology behind why diaphragmatic breathing is so beneficial for our lymphatic system and take some time to learn about our own breath.
Breathing is an important aspect of both yoga and lymphoedema management. Slow, deep breathing with breath retention will create pressure changes to empty the lymphatic system into the venous system at the exit points of the right lymphatic duct and thoracic duct” (Loudon et al., 2017).
“During inhalation, there is lower pressure in the intra-thoracic area compared to the abdominal area, which causes the lymph (and venous blood) to flow from the abdominal area to the intra-thoracic area” (Loudon et al., 2017).
“During exhalation, there is a rise in pressure in the intra-thoracic area leading to the lymph flowing into the venous system at the exit points of the right lymphatic duct and thoracic duct near the medial collar bones” (Loudon et al., 2017).
“A pause after both the inhalation and exhalation, as used in yoga (kumbhaka), will ensure optimal pressure change at an even rate” (Loudon et al., 2017).
“A greater pressure difference is created when the exhalation is accompanied by an abdominal contraction … This action also occurs from a long, slow chant” (Loudon et al., 2017).
“The long, slow breath may improve the elasticity of the secondary muscles of inhalation, such as the serratus anterior, pectoralis major and pectoralis minor, that can be impaired from surgery and radiation in breast cancer treatment. Fibrous tissue may also be softened by slow breathing” (Loudon et al., 2017).
“Studies indicate that following standardized deep breathing, there is a notable immediate reduction in limb volume and edema percentage, persisting for at least 30 min. (Wang et al, 2024)
Diaphragmatic breathing enhances respiratory muscle strength, endurance, and coordination, improves chest mobility, fortifies thoracic negative pressure capacity, and fosters deep blood and lymph circulation; thus, enhancing lymphatic flow” (Wang et al, 2024)
“In 2020, the International Society of Lymphology’s consensus statement underscored the significance of integrating deep breathing training into self-management strategies for breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL)” (Wang et al., 2024).
Resources:
Loudon, A., Barnett, T., Williams, A. D., Visentin, D., Immink, M. A., & Piller, N. (2017). Guidelines for teaching yoga to women with breast cancer-related lymphoedema: an evidence-based approach. International journal of yoga therapy, 27(1), 95-112.
Wang J, Ma J, Zhang Y, Tian Y, Wang X, Wang Y, Xiang D, Wang D, Huang K, Mao L, Zhang J, Fan H, Li Y. The rehabilitation efficacy of diaphragmatic breathing combined with limb coordination training for lower limb lymphedema following gynecologic cancer surgery. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2024 Jun 6;12:1392824. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1392824. PMID: 38903184; PMCID: PMC11187277.

[@Kaykay-mi9bu]

Love your work, You’re the best ♥️

[@StressReductionForLymphedema]

Thanks!