Anatomy of the lymphatic system There is much more to the lymphatic system than the network of vessels and nodes with which it is most commonly associated. Indeed there are several organs of the body that connect the lymphatic and immune systems together. Let’s start with one that many would not associate with the lymphatic system - Bone Marrow. Bone Marrow Red bone marrow is an extremely important part of the lymphatic system, as it produces lymphocytes - white blood cells that are responsible for identifying and destroying viruses, bacteria and other pathogens. B LYMPHOCYTES are responsible for [...]

Stretch yourself! Whilst we would just love it if everyone could have a Body Ballancer® session two or three times a week, we realise that right now this is something we can only dream of! So, to help keep the lymph flowing until we reach this Nirvana, here are a number of simple stretches that will promote muscle contraction and movement, thus stimulating lymphatic flow. The first four exercises are the most important, as they focus on the neck and shoulder area, a part of the body that is especially significant, being the location of the upper thoracic [...]

How the lymphatic and immune systems work together: One of the many benefits of a healthy, well-functioning lymphatic system is an improved immune system, but why is this so? What is Immunity? Immunity is the ability to resist illness and damage from undesirables such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and moulds. The body has a number of protective methods for preventing these nasties from entering the body in the first place, or preventing them from taking hold if they do. This is called non-specific immunity. Specific immunity on the other hand gives us the ability to identify, destroy and [...]

Water, water everywhere: The cynics amongst us may like to think that it is the bottled water companies of the world that are keen on making sure that our intake of water stays high - to the level of a small reservoir per person per day at the very least.  Indeed a number of articles in the press in recent years have indicated that the eight glasses or two litres a day we have been encouraged to drink is a guideline only and not based on any firm scientific study. But before you ditch the water habit, consider [...]