Cath Relaxology

08/01/2026

Interesting read about axillary lymph nodes which can be accessed through foot reflexology 👣👣

🌿 Your Armpit Lymph Nodes: The Unsung Heroes of Upper Body Detox 🌿
💚 A Medical & Lymphatic Breakdown of the Axillary Region

Tucked quietly in your underarms are 20–40 powerful lymph nodes — clinically referred to as the axillary lymph nodes — forming one of the body’s most critical immune surveillance and drainage hubs.

They filter up to 75% of lymphatic fluid from the breast, the entire arm, and portions of the thoracic wall, shoulder, neck, and upper back — making them central to immune function, hormonal regulation, and detoxification.

🔬 Anatomy & Classification: The 5 Axillary Lymph Node Groups
1. Pectoral (Anterior) Nodes
• Location: Along the lateral edge of the pectoralis minor muscle
• Drains: The anterior thoracic wall, upper abdomen, and a significant portion of the breast
• Clinical Relevance: Often the first site of spread in breast cancer metastasis
2. Subscapular (Posterior) Nodes
• Location: Posterior axillary fold near the subscapular vessels
• Drains: Posterior thoracic wall, scapular region
• Key Role: Supports drainage from the back and shoulder girdle
3. Humeral (Lateral) Nodes
• Location: Medial aspect of the humerus (near the axillary vein)
• Drains: Most of the upper limb (excluding lymph from hand and fingers, which may also partially drain into supratrochlear nodes)
• Commonly affected in: Infections of the hand or cellulitis
4. Central Nodes
• Location: Embedded in axillary fat, centrally located
• Receive input from: Pectoral, subscapular, and humeral groups
• Important in: Detecting generalized upper body inflammation or fluid backup
5. Apical Nodes
• Location: Apex of the axilla near the first rib and clavicle
• Drain into: The subclavian lymphatic trunk, then the right lymphatic duct (right side) or thoracic duct (left side), before lymph enters systemic circulation via the venous angle (junction of subclavian and internal jugular veins)

🩺 What Happens When These Nodes Are Overwhelmed?
When axillary lymph nodes become congested or inflamed, they may swell (lymphadenopathy) or fail to efficiently clear lymph. This can result in:

• Regional Lymphatic Edema – Puffiness of the breast, chest wall, or arms
• Axillary Nerve Compression – Causing tingling, weakness, or discomfort in the arm
• Toxin Accumulation – Due to impaired filtering of bacteria, viruses, metabolic waste, and xenobiotics
• Increased Risk for Infection – Lymph stagnation = immune dysfunction
• Poor Wound Healing – Especially in post-surgical recovery or trauma

📍 Where the Lymph Flows: Axillary Drainage Pathways
• From Upper Limb → Humeral Nodes → Central → Apical
• From Breast & Chest → Pectoral Nodes → Central → Apical
• From Back & Shoulder → Subscapular Nodes → Central → Apical
• From All Axillary Groups → Apical Nodes → Subclavian Trunk → Venous Circulation

Remember: 90% of lymphatic fluid from the left upper body drains via the thoracic duct, while the right side drains via the right lymphatic duct. These ducts empty into your bloodstream at the venous angles of the neck.

⚠️ Clinical Signs of Axillary Node Dysfunction or Swelling:
• Palpable, tender lump in the armpit (may feel rubbery or firm)
• Aching or dragging sensation down the arm or breast
• Heaviness, burning, or altered sensation in the upper limb
• Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint
• Skin dimpling or tightness over the breast or chest wall
• Unilateral swelling or puffiness of the hands or arms
• Increased sweat gland activity due to detox congestion

🌸 Therapist’s Tip: How to Support Your Axillary Nodes Gently
✔️ Manual Lymphatic Drainage — focus on proximal to distal drainage
✔️ Axillary pumping (arm above head + deep breathing)
✔️ Castor oil wraps over pectoral region (never during active infection)
✔️ FIR sauna to stimulate lymphatic soft tissue detox
✔️ Movement! Walking, shoulder rolls, and wall angels activate natural drainage
✔️ Hydration + electrolytes = optimal lymph viscosity

💚 Your axilla is not just a fold — it’s a filter, a gatekeeper, and a lifeline for your upper body’s healing potential.
If you’ve ever experienced swelling, sensitivity, or soreness in this area… your lymph is asking for support.

07/01/2026

I use RLD - reflexology lymphatic drainage technique specifically to encourage the lymphatic system to work efficiently 👣👣👣

👣 The Lymph in Your Feet: Why Your Toes Might Be More Important Than You Think
When we think about circulation and detox, most of us picture the heart, the liver, or the kidneys. But here’s an underrated truth: your feet are lymphatic powerhouses, silently working to detox your body, regulate inflammation, and support immune function—all while you walk, stand, or even wiggle your toes.
Yes, your feet do far more than take you places—they help keep you alive, clean, and balanced.

🧬 What Is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is your body’s second circulatory system, consisting of:
* Lymphatic vessels (similar to veins)
* Lymph nodes
* Lymph fluid
* Immune cells (lymphocytes)
Its key roles include:
* Clearing waste and cellular debris
* Transporting fats from the digestive system
* Regulating inflammation
* Carrying immune signals
Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump (like the heart). It relies on muscle contractions, gravity, and movement to circulate lymph.

👣 The Lymphatic System in Your Feet
Your feet contain a dense network of superficial and deep lymphatic vessels, all designed to transport lymph upward against gravity. These vessels drain into larger lymphatic trunks in the ankles and calves, then continue their journey toward inguinal lymph nodes in the groin, iliac nodes in the pelvis, and ultimately into the thoracic duct, where lymph rejoins the bloodstream.
Key lymphatic components in the feet include:
* Dorsal digital lymphatics (between the toes)
* Plantar lymphatics (bottom of the foot)
* Posterior tibial lymphatics (deep inside the ankle)
* Superficial lymph capillaries (just under the skin)

🔄 How Lymph Moves Through Your Feet
Because gravity pulls lymph downward, the feet are particularly prone to lymphatic congestion. Movement is essential to drive fluid back up the body.
Lymphatic flow in the feet depends on:
* Walking or toe flexion (muscle pumps)
* Ankle movement (activates venous-lymphatic synergy)
* Proper footwear and posture (restrictive shoes may impede lymph flow)
* Manual stimulation or dry brushing (boosts superficial lymph movement)

🧪 What Happens When Lymph Doesn’t Flow?
When lymph becomes stagnant in the feet, you may experience:
* Pitting edema (swelling that leaves an indentation)
* Heavy, tired legs
* Cold toes or poor circulation
* Skin changes (hyperkeratosis, dryness, thickening)
* Increased susceptibility to infections (e.g. cellulitis)
Lymphatic stagnation in the lower extremities can result from:
* Sedentary lifestyle
* Prolonged standing or sitting
* Post-surgical trauma (especially orthopedic procedures)
* Venous insufficiency
* Chronic inflammation or autoimmune disease

💃 Fun Facts About Foot Lymphatics
* 🧦 Compression socks support both venous and lymphatic return—your lymph loves them!
* 🌙 Lymphatic drainage is slower at night, which is why many people wake with puffy feet or ankles.
* 🔄 The plantar fascia (thick tissue in the sole of your foot) influences lymphatic flow by stimulating movement when walking barefoot.
* 🌿 Foot reflexology points correlate with major lymphatic pathways in the body.

🌿 How to Support Lymph Flow in the Feet
1. Move often! Rebounding, walking, and calf raises are your lymph’s best friends.
2. Hydrate well. Lymph is 95% water—thicker lymph = slower drainage.
3. Use a massage ball. Rolling the soles stimulates deep plantar lymphatics.
4. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Gentle hands-on therapy can mobilize stagnant fluid.
5. Elevate your feet. A few minutes of elevation each day helps reverse gravitational pull.
6. Reflexology Lymph Drainage (RLD)

🧠 Final Thought
Your feet might be the furthest thing from your head, but when it comes to immune function, inflammation regulation, and fluid balance, they’re front and center. A healthy lymphatic system starts from the ground up—and that includes your soles, toes, and ankles.
So next time you stretch your feet or walk barefoot in the grass, remember: you’re doing your whole lymphatic system a big favor. 👣💚

Disclaimer:�This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new wellness or therapeutic routine.

©️

07/01/2026

Hello, Happy New Year and welcome to 2026 👣🥰👣

I'm back from holidays with the family, we enjoyed a lovely relaxing escape to Hanmer and Nelson. Jeepers that time went quick!

Looking forward to seeing you all again soon.
If you were lucky enough to receive a reflexology gift voucher then please book in, either contact me direct or have a look at my online booking system to find a suitable day/time. I will put a link below -

I will have some new offerings this year, so watch this space.
There will also be a small increase in my pricing to keep up with everything and also allows me to continue training etc.

Thanks to all my regular clients, I appreciate you allowing me to assist you with investing in your health naturally with reflexology.

Enjoy this beautiful summer weather ☀️🌻👣😘
Cathy x

https://www.fresha.com/a/cath-relaxology-kaiapoi-30-beachvale-drive-wsymoo9c?pId=789137

11/12/2025

Stuck for a Christmas gift idea?🧐
Reflexology vouchers make an ideal gift for anyone but especially those you want to give a special relaxation treat.
Vouchers can be either collected or emailed. Paid by cash or internet banking.

60 minutes = $80
90 minutes = $120

I have 3 appointments available before Christmas if you feel like de stressing from the craziness out there 🥰👣
Have a look on my Fresha booking system or contact me directly.
👣👣🙏🙏💐💐

16/11/2025

🥰👣💗

16/11/2025

Meet Cathy Whitmore, a qualified Reflexologist since 2010 and a long-time SRG member.
Cathy runs her cosy home practice in Kaiapoi, where she loves helping clients unwind, rebalance, and feel more like themselves again — many have been with her for years!

Reflexology is incredible for supporting both physical and emotional balance. Clients might arrive with a specific issue, but the feet often tell a much bigger story. While we can’t diagnose or promise to fix anything, regular sessions help the body shift into that wonderful “rest and digest” mode, letting the nervous system settle and creating a deep sense of calm and wellbeing.

Cathy works Tuesday to Saturday, and you can book easily online.
If you’d like to know more, she’s only a message away.

Website: relaxology.co.nz

13/11/2025

I’ve recently refreshed my Ear Reflexology skills with Karen's Reflexology and am incorporating the ears more in sessions.
Like Facial Reflexology, the ears are obviously close to the brain and central nervous system, giving instant relaxation.
Why not give ear reflexology a try with your next session 🙏 👂👣

Ear Reflexology / Auricular Therapy, Subtle and Powerful

The ears have a complete reflexion of the body, offering access to every system in a surprisingly gentle way.

Ear Reflexology can help ease pain, calm the mind, and restore clarity. It is especially helpful when the feet are injured and for people who are sensitive to have their feet touched, yet the effects ripple throughout the entire body.

I love how something so subtle can create such profound stillness. It is a reminder that the smallest gestures can bring the deepest peace.

Through the ears, we reach all body systems and the nervous system directly, supporting calm, emotional balance, and inner strength.

03/11/2025

👣❤️🙏

28/09/2025

Thanks to everyone who came by to try reflexology, we all enjoyed our day 👣❤️🙏

26/09/2025

Come say hi tomorrow at our Southern Reflexology Group expo.
I’ll be there offering taster sessions of facial reflexology. If you’ve always been curious about reflexology or have a friend or family member you think might benefit then please bring them along.
Spot prizes, raffles, informative talks by some of our members. Also some market stalls and a coffee cart outside.
Entrance is to the rear of the building and we all look forward to seeing you and sharing our love of reflexology ❤️👣❤️

21/09/2025

18/09/2025

Our bodies are amazing if we give them a chance ❤️👣👣

Your Body Knows How to Heal

Reflexology doesn’t force change; it reminds your body how to find balance again:

🥦 From digestion to brain function
💩 Improved focus
💏 Conception
👨‍👦‍👦 Pregnancy
😴 Stress relief to better sleep
💧 Flushing lymphatic fluid
🔆 Balancing hormones
👍 Etc.

This gentle therapy supports the whole person and all body systems. The intelligence is already within you; reflexology simply helps it shine.