Go With The Flow

It seems as if everyone is paddling, dry-brushing and massaging their lymphatic system for optimal wellness - and they're onto something. Growing research reveals that the smooth functioning of this network is key for immunity, vitamin absorption and more. Learn to show it some love.

- JESSICA MIGALA

Perhaps the only time you've ever really considered your lymphatic system was when you were sick and touched your neck to find swollen nodes. And, well, once you felt better, you didn't give those lumps another thought. Fast-forward to today, when you have Tracee Ellis Ross drumming her abs and laughing enthusiastically on Instagram and TikTok and Nicola Peltz getting a rub-down ahead of her wedding to Brooklyn Beckham, all in the name of (yep!) cleansing the lymphatic system. "Hey, Siri: Explain to me the seemingly sudden obsession...

For those unfamiliar with the lymphatic system, it's a network of organs, fluids, vessels and more that does all sorts of work to keep your circulation going and your body free of invaders. "I call it the immune system's best sidekick," says physiotherapist Leigh Wilfley, who specialises in lymphedema. While sparse in the past, research on the system and its role in disease prevention and management and overall well-being is now growing exponentially, says Dr. Alexander Nguyen, a general surgeon with a special interest in lymphatic surgery.