The lymphatic system is one of our body's most important functions, acting as the drainage system that maintains fluid balance. When working optimally it fights off unwanted toxins and pollutants, protecting us from cancer and disease. However, with today’s non-stop lifestyles, many of us may be experiencing symptoms that come from a blocked lymphatic system.

Symptoms include bloating, puffiness, fluid retention, cellulite, sagging skin, and deposits that can be resistant to diet and exercise. Lack of movement, insufficient water intake, stress, ageing, flying and pollution are all factors that can create blockages.

A congested lymphatic system can also lead to serious illness, as our body’s sewer is essentially blocked and cannot remove all metabolic waste.

The lymphatic system relies on us to move it, as it cannot flow on its own. Regular practices such as dry brushing, regular exercise, daily perspiration, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, hydrating, wearing non-toxic fabrics, and receiving pre and post-flight lymphatic massage can all encourage lymphatic health.

By re-activating an already existing system that has been overlooked and undervalued, everything will feel lighter and clearer. Lymphatic drainage has popped up at wellness centres everywhere, with treatments incorporating ancient and modern techniques to restore your lymphatic system to optimum health and flow. From old-school manual lymphatic drainage to new vigorous lymphatic drainage with body contouring and crystals, the world of lymphatic drainage is yours to explore. We’ll pour ourselves a glass of water to that.

Jeannie Burke is the founder of Venustus Beauty & Body Lab, Sydney.