The Importance Of Breast Massage Breast Massage
The Importance Of Breast Massage
Breasts are simply a part of having a female body… Each of us has a unique relationship with our breasts, as well as different sets of feelings. Some of us love them, and some of us don’t. Some of us have fed children with them, while others have dealt with diseases or malfunctions of the breast. Whatever your story, as a woman, your breasts have been a natural part of it. However, this isn’t all that makes these organs important. They are also part of our lymphatic system, and should be taken care of just like the rest of our bodies. One way to do this is through breast massage. Keep reading for more details on the importance of breast massage!
What Is Breast Massage?
Breast massage is an Ayurvedic practice that helps push lymphatic fluid through the armpit and breast tissue. It is also a great way to familiarize yourself with your breasts, so you will notice if something is wrong.
There are many techniques that are safe for women that are pregnant, breastfeeding, and even that have had mastectomies. We will discuss a few of these breast massage techniques below. First, however, let’s talk about why doing breast massage regularly is important!
Why Is Breast Massage Important?
By consistently practicing breast massage, you not only help with detox, but also possible early detection of breast cancer.
Our lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump like the heart to push fluid through it. The lymphatic system relies on our movement to drain itself of the built up toxins it filters. There are several areas around our chest and armpits where lymphatic fluid can pool when we are stagnant. However, with breast massage, this pooling can be prevented, and the toxins pushed out of our body!
Another great benefit of breast massage is that it gives you a literal feel for what your breasts normally feel like. You’ll know how they change throughout the month, and you’ll notice when/if anything changes. This means that you will be able to get checked out as soon as possible if you feel something not quite right! Early detection is often the difference between life and death when it comes to things like breast cancer.
Now that we know why breast massage is so important, let’s get into how you can do it yourself!
How Do I Practice Breast Massage?
I’m going to be going over seven different strokes you can practice as you begin regular breast massage. I will also be posting a video for visual learners <HERE> so you can see what each technique looks like. Keep in mind that breast massage should not be painful, but you may experience sensitivity during certain times of the month. Depending on your personal history, breast massage may open up emotional windows. Be sure that you practice breast massage when you have a good amount of time to yourself. This will make it easier to focus and work through any inner feelings that come up. You can choose to do all of the following massages, or a few, but try to do at least one, once a week. The following techniques are safe for women that are pregnant, breastfeeding, and that have (fully healed) mastectomies…
The first step of breast massage, no matter which stroke(s) you choose, is to have good massage oil. You can use plain oils like olive or almond, or you can make a simple mixture like I make <HERE>. It’s completely up to you and what makes you comfortable. Whatever oil you use, start your massage by rubbing it between your hands to warm it. Then rub it all over your chest, breasts, and in your armpits. Now you can begin your breast massage…
1. Ayurvedic Squish ’n’ Squeeze
Place your hands flat on your breasts
Alternate pressing them flat, then squeezing them
Repeat 40x
2. Knuckling
Make a fist
Use your knuckles to push in a brushing motion from your armpit to your nips
Repeat 40x
3. Lymph Flow Stroke
Place your fingers on your breasts with the tips toward your sternum
Make upward and outward sweeping circles with your fingers
Repeat 40x
4. Moving Circles
Massage small circles around the perimeter of your breasts with your fingertips
Go clockwise 40x
Repeat 40x counter clockwise
5. Pinching
Gently but firmly pinch the tissue on and around each breast
Repeat 40x
6. Slapping
Use the pinkie edge of your hand to do “karate chops” in short, sawing motions all over your breasts
Repeat 40x
7. Stagnant Circles
Grip one breast in each hand
Push them together, up, and apart, making circles with your breasts themselves
Repeat 40x
I hope these breast massage techniques and benefits inspire you to do a little pampering for yourself. Breast massage offers a great opportunity for mindfulness and self care as well. :) If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me! I would love to chat with you, and help however I can.
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