Ask the Expert: Breast Health & Lymphatic Drainage

Meet Leah Levitan, the dynamic force behind Lymph Love Club. Known for her impactful Instagram presence, Leah is on a mission to transform how we approach lymphatic health. With her deep expertise in massage therapy and lymphatic care, Leah has helped countless individuals enhance their well-being. Today, we dive into her journey and gather powerful insights on boosting your lymphatic health and overall wellness.

 Q: Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired your career and work?

I began my journey as a massage therapist in 2016, but my relationship with bodywork started much earlier. Since I was 6 years old, I had a natural and intuitive knack for helping others through touch. Despite this early inclination, it wasn’t until 2020 that I discovered lymphatic work. Returning to school to specialize in lymphatic therapy was a turning point for me; it was like finding the missing piece of a puzzle. This newfound knowledge completed my practice and significantly enhanced my ability to help people.

Q: Tell us about the results people see from the work that you do and what conditions do you treat?

Initially, my focus was on chronic illnesses like thyroid issues, autoimmune disorders, MCAS, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal and neurological problems, unexplained swelling, and chronic inflammation. With further training, I expanded my expertise to include post-surgical cases, cancer recovery, and lymphatic diseases such as lymphedema and lipedema. My clients often report feeling lighter, experiencing less fluid retention, reduced pain levels, diminished inflammation, and improved sleep. This holistic approach helps them better manage or recover from their body's challenges.

Q: What is your favorite way to use Gua Sha?

I absolutely love incorporating Gua Sha into my routine. At 39, I find myself focusing a lot on facial care, but a Gua Sha session for my forearms after a long day of massage is incredibly rewarding. It’s all about finding what feels right and beneficial for you.

Q: What are 3 things everyone can do to boost their lymphatic health?

To support your lymphatic health, prioritize these three key practices:

1. Sleep: Essential for effective lymphatic cleansing and detoxification. During sleep, your brain’s lymphatic system is highly active, and your detox organs are working hard.
2. Hydration: Keep hydrated to ensure smooth lymphatic flow. The lymphatic fluid is predominantly water, so drinking plenty of mineral-rich water is crucial.
3. Movement: Engage in any form of movement that you enjoy and that feels supportive to you. Muscle activation aids lymph flow, so find activities that make you feel good and keep your body moving.

Q: What can we do specifically for breast health?

Breast health is closely linked to effective lymphatic function. To promote it:

• Avoid antiperspirants and deodorants with harsh chemicals to ensure your sweat glands can function properly.
• Opt for a loose-fitting, low-compression bra or go without one to avoid hindering lymphatic drainage.
• Incorporate daily shoulder exercises and breast massage to support fluid movement. Our lymphatic system plays a vital role in cancer prevention, so keeping it flowing freely is essential.

Q: What is one thing you want the reader to take away from this blog?

I want readers to feel empowered and capable of managing their lymphatic health. In a world full of conflicting advice, trust your intuition and understand that the key to effective lymphatic care lies within you. By learning about how your body and lymphatic system work, you can truly master your own health and well-being.

Q: How can our readers stay informed and involved?

For those new to lymphatic self-care, I offer two free resources:

1. Pick-3 Daily Guide: A 7-day self-care calendar with daily lymphatic care reminders tailored to your time constraints.
2. The Boob Book: An e-book focused on breast health and the lymphatic system, featuring a bra-buying guide and exercises to support breast health.

For those ready to delve deeper, I provide online courses and a private community offering ongoing support and mentorship. This community is ideal for anyone on a healing journey, with regular meetings, a book club, and exclusive content to help you learn and grow in your understanding of lymphatic health.

Follow Leah on Instagram to learn more: @lymphloveclub

Leah also offers a dry brushing masterclass. This is the link to join!