To review, there are several major components of the lymphatic system. The fluid is called lymph and is transported by the lymphatic vessels. The lymph passes from the vessels through lymph nodes back into the vessels and continues on throughout the body in this fashion. A large portion of the 600-plus lymph nodes reside in the breast, armpits, chest, and abdomen, as well as in the groin area. The others are scattered freely throughout the body. Certain organs also have lymphatic tissue: the spleen, the thymus, and the tonsils. Lymph is one of the main defense systems of the body providing resistance to invaders.

Lymph drainage is important, as it allows the flow of lymph to continue unobstructed. The technique for lymph drainage is simple. Both feet have the same reflexes. You are still on the right foot. The thumb and forefinger are used simultaneously for this movement.

Begin with a practice run on your hands. Use your right hand to work on your left. Turn the left hand so that the palm is facing you; the thumb will be closest to you. Place your right thumb at the top of the web between the thumb and forefinger of the left hand, on the palm's surface. Rest your index finger at the top of the web, on the dorsal surface of the hand. Press in gently, feeling contact. Curl the remaining fingers into a fist, so they stay out of the way and can easily move with you.

Using slow, steady movement, inch forward and allow the thumb and finger to walk down the web toward the wrist. When you have gone as far as your hand will allow, press and hold. Gently, with light, even pressure, slowly pull back along the route you just traveled. When the two fingers reach the top of the web, hold and press the two fingers together at the tips, through the web. Gently pull off and move to the next space between the fingers, repeating to the end and back again.

Now, move to the foot. The left hand is supporting the right foot, holding at the heel. Place the right thumb and forefinger at the web between the great toe and second toe. The thumb is touching the plantar surface and the forefinger is on the dorsal side. Close the remaining fingers into a fist, tucked out of the way.

Thumb and finger walk down the foot toward the ankle. Again go as far as your hand will allow. At the end of each walk down, before moving to the next web, gently pull up to the top again. The pressure is steady, but not heavy.