Pilates : Not Just a Good Workout

Lymphatic system health relies heavily on two things: MOVEMENT AND BREATH.

In fact, did you know that the lymphatic vessels do not contain any smooth muscle and therefore rely solely on muscle contraction to function properly? This is why our feet swell when sitting for prolonged periods or hands can feel puffy after waking up from a long sleep, to then return to normal once we are up and moving. The multi-plane movement of pilates with focus on joint mobilization helps stimulate lymph nodes and move fluid from superficial tissue to then process through the rest of the body.

Just as important as movement? Effective breathing. This is something I focus on during my lymphatic drainage sessions, and let me tell you why. Near the diaphragm are an abundance of lymph nodes that rely on pressure changes and manual movement to help move lymphatic fluid and toxins along. When the diaphragm expands and contracts, it does just that. When breathing is effective it can have a major impact on lymphatic health.

What do I mean by effective breathing? Deep, controlled diaphragmatic breathing (in through the nose and out through the mouth) that causes expansion and contraction of the rib cage. This type of breathing also helps stimulate the lymphatics of the digestive track and can help with bloating and digestive issues. See an example of this here.

Even research supports pilates for lymphatic health. This study states “pilates exercises were determined to be more effective on the symptoms of patients with lymphedema than were standard lymphedema exercises”.

So, I challenge you to try out a pilates class and focus in on your breathing - it’s great for your muscles, mind, and as you now know, lymphatic system!