Based on a suggestion by my chiropractor, I recently scheduled an appointment for a lymphatic drainage massage. Throughout the treatment, I held the intention that my body would welcome the assistance with this natural biological process and eagerly envisioned the old, stuck lymph being drawn up to my heart for release. I could feel the energy moving and shifting – exactly what I needed to clear inflammation out of my leg and knee.
After discussing self-care steps, the massage therapist’s parting words to me were, “You may experience a few mild, flulike symptoms later today or tomorrow.”
“Okay,” I thought. “I’ll go home and drink lots of water.”
Later that afternoon, I felt a little tired and achy. I made a pot of hot tea and went to bed early.
The next morning, I sat up in bed and fluid immediately began draining out of my eyes and my sinuses. Lots of fluid. My head pounded, my ears ached, and my throat felt like raw hamburger. It continued for the next few days. And to use an entirely accurate, albeit trite phrase, I felt sick as a dog.
I checked back with the massage therapist because I wasn’t completely sure I was detoxing.
“You said I may experience a few mild, flulike symptoms,” I said. “But I wouldn’t describe what I’m feeling as mild.” (Notice the attempt to maintain my sense of humor.) After listening to my woes, she confirmed that I was indeed detoxing.
I continued to visualize the toxins moving up and out of my body. A part of me – and at times it was a very small part – remained grateful for the treatment. My higher, wiser self recognized that even through the physical suffering, it was far better for my body in the long-term to release the stagnant, heavy energy than to hold on to it.
Almost immediately after the massage, my leg and knee felt lighter and looser. And a couple of weeks later, after the detox was a faint memory, I acknowledged another unexpected outcome. In addition to the change I felt in my body, my emotions, my energy and my life had experienced a lightening and revitalization as well.
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After a particularly intense bodywork or energy healing appointment, we may experience a detoxification process as our body continues to purge the toxins and heavy energy that were released during the session. Everyone’s process is unique, but the most common symptoms manifest as sore muscles, intestinal upset, and sinus or chest congestion – ranging from mildly annoying to virulent depending on what is being released and the body’s sensitivity to energy.
The timing of the symptoms often help decipher what’s occurring. Sudden onset within 24 hours of an appointment may indicate detox instead of illness, especially if usual precursors such as a sore throat or sneezing are not present.
Here are some suggestions for making your detox process smoother:
· Drink plenty of water for the 24 hours after an appointment to stay hydrated and help flush the toxins out of the system.
· Take a bath in either sea salt or epsom salt. Use several cups of salt and soak for 20-30 minutes. This helps leech the toxins out of the aura and cleanse the luminous energy field.
· Eat healthy, nutritious foods that appeal to your body.
· Get lots of rest, particularly if your energy feels depleted.
· Honor and acknowledge whatever emotions arise for release.
· Continue to work with your body to release the old energy – either through breath, intention, or visualization.
· Give gratitude for the experience and trust the process. Recognize that it’s better in the long-term for the stagnant energy to come out than be held in.
NOTE: This information does not replace medical care by a doctor. If you have concerns about your physical health, please listen to your intuition and seek medical attention. A blend of conventional care and energy healing combines the benefits of both approaches and addresses the mind-body-spirit connection.