Rebounding and the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic (“lymph”) system is an integral part of our immune system and it helps the body rid itself of toxins and waste materials at a cellular level and to filter out bad bacteria. The lymphatic network of vessels branch throughout our entire body, from our head all the way to our hands and feet. To quote Wikipedia, lymphatic system has a number of important functions:
“It is responsible for the removal of interstitial fluid from tissues
It absorbs and transports fatty acids and fats as chyle from the digestive system
It transports white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes into the bones
The lymph transports antigen-presenting cells, such as dendritic cells, to the lymph nodes where an immune response is stimulated.” – Wikipedia (Lymphatic System)
The lymphatic system a part of the body’s circulatory system, but it operates very differently to cardiovascular system. The cardiovascular system (which consists of the heart, blood and blood vessels), has a very distinct mechanism in place for circulating blood all through the body – that beating of our heart which keeps pumping blood all the time. The lymphatic system on the other hand doesn’t have its own pump to move lymph fluid around the body. This is where movement and exercise is crucial for healthy circulation of the lymph. It is through muscular contractions from physical activity that assists lymph fluid circulation throughout the body. A well circulated lymphatic system means you’re body will be able to cleanse and remove waste material from your cells more effectively. This can result in a healthier immune system and generally having less toxins stuck in your body.
Image: Blausen.com staff (2014).
So what is the connection to rebounding? Well, rebounding is a uniquely effective form of movement for quickly stimulating lymphatic flow. When you exercise on a rebounder, the motion of jumping up and down activates numerous muscles simultaneously. The large number of muscular contractions combined with actual dynamics of jumping causes vigorous movement of the lymphatic fluids, as though the lymph system was being given a good shake. It for this reason that rebounding is a well-known form of lymphatic detox recommended by natural health practitioners for decades. Stimulating your lymphatic system with energetic and dynamic movement greatly assists your body in flushing out toxins and boosting immunity. As little as 5 to 10 minutes of rebounding a day can effectively help your lymphatic system flow better, helping you feel better and more rejuvenated.
Remember to drink plenty of water before and after rebounding to keep yourself hydrated and to help your body cleanse detox naturally!
