My Ultimate Self Care Ritual: Lymphatic Drainage Massage
In Conversation with….Expert Lymphatic Drainage Therapist Cris Mellatto
Lymphatic massage is my secret weapon for feeling my absolute best; both physically and mentally. Cris is a genius at working away any signs of water retention and bloating, making you look and feel your best. In addition, a lymphatic drainage massage is incredible for post surgery recovery, having recently undergone a breast augmentation, Cris made my recovery a breeze with a mixture of massage and taping to encourage healing.
1. Please introduce yourself and tell us a bit more about how you became a massage therapist?
I’m Cristiane Mellatto, proudly of Brazilian and Italian heritage and I’ve been living in London for more than 4 years. I became a massage therapist because I have a passion for helping others, promoting relaxation, and supporting overall well-being. It can be a rewarding career path for those who enjoy hands-on work and making a positive impact on people's lives through the power of touch and therapeutic techniques.
2. What is lymphatic drainage and how does it work?
Lymphatic drainage is a therapeutic technique aimed at stimulating the lymphatic system to remove excess fluid, toxins, and waste products from the body. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs responsible for maintaining fluid balance and supporting the immune system.
During lymphatic drainage I use gentle, rhythmic movements to manually push lymphatic fluid towards the lymph nodes, where waste materials are filtered and eliminated from the body. This helps reduce swelling, improve circulation, and enhance immune function. The technique is often used to alleviate conditions like lymphedema, promote healing after surgeries, and support overall wellness.
3. Who can benefit from this kind of massage?
Everyone!! Lymphatic drainage massage can benefit a variety of individuals and provide numerous benefits.
For those looking to reduce water retention and feel better in themselves, the massage can aid in detoxifying the body by facilitating the removal of waste products and toxins.
Additionally, if you are going to be undergoing a surgery, this type of massage can be hugely beneficial for increased healing as it will aid in reducing post-operative swelling and prevent fluid buildup, in turn promoting healing.
This type of massage is also beneficial for those suffering with lymphedema, chronic inflammation conditions, fatigue as well as weakened immune systems.
4. You recently supported me post surgery, making my recovery incredibly easy; can you expand on the benefits post surgery?
Massage is essential post-surgery as it can significantly aid in the recovery process and promote overall healing. Often the missing puzzle piece in recovery.
Massage will help to reduce swelling and relieve pain and discomfort. The technique itself helps to remove excess fluid, toxins from medications with anaesthetic as well promote better circulation. More so, surgery can be a stressful time with a degree of post operative pain; massage is a gentle and calming therapy which can greatly support both the physical but emotional healing too.
Lastly, it is important to manage scar tissue and massage is imperative for helping to soften, heal and reduce scaring. Internal scarring, known as adhesions, is often forgotten but massage can help to reduce this outcome by improving range of motion and tension.
5. As someone who spends their time helping others feel their best, what is your non-negotiable healthy behaviour that you do for yourself?
My number one non-negotiable is exercise, I do a mix of pilates, yoga and I walk everywhere. This supports both my mind as well as my body.
I am also, always learning. As a practitioner of health and wellbeing I endeavour to keep on top of the latest techniques, attending courses and acquiring new skills along the way. This keeps my mind active and on top of my game.
6. Tell us about your biggest professional highlight to date?
My biggest professional highlights to date was launched my business company, Healing Shapers, and finding like-minded partners who share the same dreams and vision. Starting a business and building a partnership with a shared mission is a significant achievement and an exciting journey.
Healing Shapers is a leading in-house specialist in Lymphatic Drainage Massage in London.
We are experts in pre and post-surgery massages and also offer Lymphatic Drainage Massage for health benefits with bespoke packages for your healing journey, all in the comfort of your home.
Expanding ours brand to reach not just Europe but also the entire world is an ambitious and inspiring goal. It shows ours dedication and determination to make a positive impact on a global scale.
Healing Shapers will support your recovery from the inside out. We will guide your mind and body back to balance through our holistic and therapeutic approach. As a result, you will be able to celebrate the new you and feel yourself again, faster.
7. Cris, you are always so open with your learnings and knowledge of the human body; what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
"Always be open to learning and growing."
This advice emphasises the importance of continuous learning, being receptive to new ideas, and embracing opportunities for personal and intellectual growth. Life is a journey of discovery, and being open-minded and willing to adapt can lead to a more enriching and fulfilling experience. Whether it's acquiring new knowledge, honing skills, or gaining different perspectives, being open to learning can lead to personal development and success in various aspects of life.
8. If you hadn’t of chosen massage, what other career path would you like to venture down?
I was project manager before so I think still working with project manager.
Changing career paths can be a significant and fulfilling decision, allowing individuals to pursue their passions and interests in a different field.
Both project management and therapy require unique skills and abilities. Project managers are responsible for planning, organising, and executing projects, while therapists focus on helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and mental health.
9. Finally, what does health mean to you?
Health refers to a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or illness. It encompasses various aspects of a person's life, including physical fitness, emotional resilience, social connections, and overall happiness.
Ultimately, it's about striving for a balanced and fulfilling life that allows individuals to thrive and enjoy their journey to the fullest extent possible.
How can people find you Cris?
Mobile : 07841787856
Instagram: @healing_shapers
Site : www.healingshapers.co.uk
Email: hello@healingshapers.co.uk