Lymphatic class preparation.
Click here to email Taum the name you want to be used on your class certificate.
Your email is a component of your registration for:
The Lauren Berry Method® of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Part 1: Saturday, June 20th
and
Part 2: Saturday, June 27th
I suggest eating lightly before class.
Snacks and water are advised.
There will be a lunch break, approximately 1 pm.
Northern Nevada Healing Arts
85 Washington St.
Reno, NV 89503
Stagnant is not healthy.
The following is intended to strengthen your understanding of how fluid movement throughout the body sustains health.
Every cell is bathed in fluid — and when that fluid becomes stagnant, health declines.
Thigh Cross-Section
This image represents a cross-section of the thigh muscles and fascia. The fascia is not just a covering — it is a living connective tissue that contains small arteries, veins, and capillaries requiring constant nourishment through saturation.
The techniques presented in class help reestablish healthy movement of that fluid at a cellular level and support the circulation within this vascular and lymphatic network.
Zooming closer, we see muscle fibers bundled together, each surrounded by fascia. Within these fascial layers, tiny lymphatic and venous capillaries run side by side with arteries. This is where the exchange and clearance of fluid happen continuously.
Whole Muscle as represented by this Tri-Tip example
Viewed as a whole piece of muscle, you can see how fibers align in broad patterns. Just as in the thigh, fascia wraps around and divides these fibers into sections, forming channels where interstitial fluid and lymphatic pathways weave through the tissue.
At the bone, the tendon blends into fascia and muscle fibers. This connection illustrates how circulation, lymphatic flow, and mechanical force all converge. Musculoskeletal movement is essential to health — every contraction and release pumps fluid through the interstitial and lymphatic channels, preventing stagnation.
Stagnant fluid means stagnant health; movement is what keeps tissues alive and balanced.
This amazingly unique approach to working with the lymphatic system was developed by my primary teacher, Lauren Berry Sr., and taught to me by Jean Lincoln. Jean was my sponsor and Lauren’s primary clinical assistant for over a decade at his Sacramento clinic, where she served as the lymphatic therapist.
The effectiveness of this therapy stems from its comprehensive approach, which integrates the entire body rather than focusing on isolated areas.
Ponder the therapeutic power of reducing congestion, restoring balance, and returning the body to its natural rhythms, where it can return to doing what it was designed to do:
Live and move.
Oxygenated blood leaves the heart and travels through progressively smaller vessels until it reaches the capillaries — the narrowest blood vessels in the body. These tiny tubes are just wide enough for red blood cells to pass through in single file. As they squeeze through these capillaries, red blood cells come into close contact with the thin vessel walls, allowing for efficient exchange.
Inside the arterial capillaries, red blood cells remain within the vessel, but they release oxygen and nutrients, which diffuse through the capillary walls into the surrounding interstitial fluid. This fluid bathes nearby cells, delivering fuel for essential physical functions such as muscle contraction, nerve signaling, energy production, and cellular repair. You can think of body cells as nutrient-hungry sponges, soaking up what they need from the interstitial space to maintain tissue health and performance.
The movement of fluid from capillaries into the tissue — and then back into the bloodstream — is governed by what are called Starling forces. These are two main pressures:
- Hydrostatic pressure: the force exerted by blood pressure inside the capillaries, pushing fluid out.
- Oncotic pressure: the osmotic pull from plasma proteins (like albumin), drawing fluid back in.
At the arterial end of the capillary, hydrostatic pressure is higher than oncotic pressure, which causes fluid (containing oxygen and nutrients) to be pushed out into the interstitial space. As the blood travels through the capillary network, hydrostatic pressure drops while oncotic pressure remains constant. By the time it reaches the venous end, oncotic pressure now dominates, drawing fluid — now containing carbon dioxide and waste — back into the capillaries. This isn’t just a convenient system — it is the natural hydraulic path the body is engineered to follow, using pressure gradients to direct fluid flow efficiently. This balance ensures that nutrient delivery and waste collection happen seamlessly at the tissue level.
Not all of the fluid and waste, however, makes it back into the venous capillaries. Some of what remains in the interstitial space contains proteins, pathogens, cellular debris, or excess fluid that is too large or potentially contaminated to re-enter the bloodstream directly — and this is where the immune system steps in. The lymphatic system, a critical part of immune defense, is designed to handle and monitor this leftover material. It collects the fluid and routes it through lymph nodes, where immune cells (like macrophages and lymphocytes) examine the contents. Contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, or damaged cells are identified and destroyed — primarily by macrophages, which engulf them through phagocytosis. Inside these immune cells, the threats are broken down and digested. The resulting harmless byproducts are either recycled for use by the body or sent into the bloodstream to be filtered and excreted by the liver and kidneys. This process forms the basis of the body's response to infection, injury, or inflammation, ensuring that threats are neutralized and disposed of before the cleaned fluid is returned to the bloodstream near the heart — completing the body’s internal cleanup, defense, and recycling process.
Stagnant is not Healthy.
This entire system depends heavily on movement. Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system has no central pump. It relies almost entirely on muscle contractions and physical activity to move lymphatic fluid through its vessels. Similarly, muscle contractions help squeeze veins and propel blood back to the heart, especially from the lower body. Without regular movement, fluid can stagnate in the interstitial space, impairing nutrient delivery, slowing waste removal, and increasing the risk of inflammation, swelling, and cellular dysfunction. In this way, physical inactivity — or stagnation — creates a compromised internal environment, while movement actively supports circulation, immune health, and overall cellular vitality.
Capillary exchange:
- Arterial capillary end → At the arterial end of a capillary, pressure disperses fluid and oxygen into the tissues.
- Mid-capillary → balanced exchange.
- Venous capillary end → lower pressure draws fluid back for recycling into the blood.
- Lymphatics pick up the leftover fluid and proteins that can’t re-enter.
Capillaries in the Interstitial Space:
Capillaries are the smallest and most numerous blood vessels in the body, extending an estimated 25,000–40,000 miles in total length. Their walls are only one cell thick, making them the primary sites of exchange between blood and tissues. Through this delicate layer, oxygen and nutrients are delivered, while carbon dioxide and waste products are removed.
Capillary Basics
• Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the body — only about the width of one red blood cell.
• Their walls are just one cell thick, which makes them perfectly suited for exchange between blood and surrounding tissues.
The Arterial End of a Capillary
• The "arterial end" means the portion of the capillary that's closest to the arteriole, where blood is arriving under higher pressure.
• At this end:
• Plasma (fluid) and dissolved nutrients are pushed out of the blood through the thin walls.
• This delivers oxygen, glucose, amino acids, hormones, and water to the interstitial fluid (the fluid bathing the cells).
Summary
• Capillary: Smallest blood vessel, site of exchange.
• Arterial end: Entry side from arterioles, where blood pressure drives fluid and nutrients out into tissues.
• Venous end: Exit side toward venules, where much of the fluid is reabsorbed along with carbon dioxide and wastes.
Stage 1: Nutrient Delivery
At the arterial end of the blood capillaries, hydrostatic pressure pushes some plasma out into the surrounding tissues. This is not accidental leakage but a regulated distribution process. The plasma saturates the tissue spaces, bathing cells in oxygen, glucose, amino acids, electrolytes, and hormones. This bathing fluid is called interstitial fluid, and it allows the cells to absorb what they need for energy and repair.
Stage 2: Reabsorption and Waste Collection
After the cells take up nutrients and oxygen, the interstitial fluid now contains metabolic byproducts such as carbon dioxide and cellular waste. At the venous end of the capillary, osmotic pressure pulls most of this fluid back into the venous capillaries. This returning fluid is lower in nutrients and oxygen but carries away cellular wastes. It then flows into venules, larger veins, and ultimately returns to the heart. From there, it passes through the lungs to release carbon dioxide and pick up fresh oxygen, and through the digestive system and liver to be replenished with nutrients.
Stage 3: Entry into Lymphatic Capillaries
Not all interstitial fluid is reabsorbed by venous capillaries. Approximately 10–15% remains in the tissue spaces, along with proteins and some immune cells. This excess fluid is collected by lymphatic capillaries—tiny, blind-ended vessels with flap-like valves. These valves open when interstitial pressure is greater than inside the lymphatic capillary, allowing fluid, proteins, and immune cells to enter. Once inside, the fluid is no longer called interstitial fluid—it is now lymph.
Stage 4: Importance of the Transition
• Balance: Prevents excess tissue swelling (edema) by returning fluid to circulation.
• Defense: Provides a pathway for immune surveillance, transporting lymphocytes and antigens.
• Nutrient Absorption: Specialized lymphatic capillaries in the gut (lacteals) absorb dietary fats.
Fluid Balance and the Lymphatic System
Key Terms & Definitions
- Plasma: The Liquid part of blood that carries nutrients, hormones, and proteins.
- Interstitial Fluid: Watery fluid surrounding every cell; medium for oxygen/nutrient delivery and waste removal.
- Lymph: Interstitial fluid that enters lymphatic vessels, is filtered in nodes, and is returned to the blood.
- Capillaries: Tiny blood vessels where plasma exits and is mostly reabsorbed.
- Lymphatic Vessels: Thin tubes that collect excess interstitial fluid and return it to the bloodstream.
- Edema: Swelling from too much fluid in tissues.
- Homeostasis: Stable internal balance (including proper tissue hydration).
Grounded in Real Life
- Twisted ankle: Puffiness = interstitial fluid accumulating faster than lymph can drain.
- Morning puffiness: While lying flat, gravity and inactivity reduce the body's natural lymphatic pump, creating fluid pooling in loose, compliant tissues, such as the eyelids. It typically clears once the client is upright—unless soft-tissue restrictions interfere with interstitial and lymphatic flow.
- Massage link: Gentle techniques can encourage lymph movement and reduce swelling.
- Movement & breath: Muscle activity and deep breathing help pump lymph.
- Everyday Cell Life — Wash · Rinse · Recycle:
Similar to fish in water, our cells live in interstitial fluid, through which dissolved nutrients from nearby capillaries reach cell membranes. This fluid carries away cellular waste and keeps the tissue space moving rather than stagnant, with the lymphatics recycling the overflow back to the bloodstream.
Big Picture
Wash → Rinse → Repeat.
Blood plasma → interstitial fluid → lymph → back to blood.
Every cell - Constantly.
This continuous flow underpins the body’s natural capacity to heal and maintain itself. Our role is to support the free and healthy movement of interstitial and lymphatic fluids.
Think and intend beyond 'Lymphatic drainage.'
The Lymphatic Management Class is grounded in three engineering principles: Homeostasis, Movement, and Balance.
Think of the body as a living hydraulic system—or, if you prefer, a walking bag of warm stew.**
Fluids are always in motion — sloshing, shifting pressure, and requiring structures to support and adapt. When these fluids maintain their natural flow and direction, the body doesn’t have to fight itself. Instead, systems regulate more easily, tissues feel lighter, and the whole body functions with remarkable efficiency.
Unlike lighter “drainage-only” approaches, this work also opens the viscera, providing fluids with a place to be processed. That is why it’s called management: not just moving fluid, but ensuring the system can actually handle what’s released.
** ...Walking bag of stew... ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Yeah, I know, but this is the closest and clearest explanation I can come up with, and believe me, I've tried.
Homeostasis – The Body’s Control System
In engineering, systems operate most efficiently when pressure, temperature, and chemistry remain within specified ranges. The body maintains this balance through homeostasis, constantly adjusting to keep its internal “operating environment” steady.
- Regulates temperature, pH, hydration, and electrolytes—like gauges on a control panel.
- Every cell depends on these steady settings to survive and function.
When lymphatic flow is blocked, pressure builds, chemical processes stagnate, and the system drifts off course.
By incorporating Lauren's visceral protocols into his lymphatic work, we don’t just circulate fluids—we restore the body’s fluid regulation system, providing a pathway for released fluid to be processed.
Movement – Flow vs. Stagnation
Any hydraulic system requires constant circulation. If fluid stops moving, pressure spikes, debris builds up, and the system strains.
- Every cell requires fresh fluid exchange.
- The Lymphatic, Digestive, and Visceral systems are the engines of this renewal.
Very light, “drainage-only” approaches may shift fluid but leave pathways unclear. It’s like pouring water into a clogged drain—without opening the pipes, flow remains restricted.
By opening the viscera, lymphatic management ensures that what you release has a designated destination with a clear pathway for processing. That’s why results feel more complete: the body becomes a symphony in circulation, not just stirred water.
Rule of hydraulics (and biology): Stagnant is not healthy. Keep it moving.
Balance – Hydraulic Pressure & Structural Alignment
Balance isn’t only posture—it’s hydraulic pressure equalizing throughout the system.
- Muscles pump fluids as they contract and release.
- Fascia and joints act like valves and channels, regulating flow.
- The lymphatic system helps relieve excess pressure, preventing tissues from swelling or becoming inflamed.
When balance is lost, some areas become overloaded, while others become depleted, creating tension, pain, and dysfunction. By including the viscera, lymphatic management prevents bottlenecks and resets hydraulic balance, allowing structure to realign naturally.
Drainage moves fluid; management restores balance.
Class mindset takeaway
Think like an engineer: Homeostasis is the control system, Movement is circulating flow, and Balance is hydraulic pressure regulation. In this class, you’ll feel how opening pathways—including the viscera—gives fluid somewhere to go, making results more efficient, effective, and lasting.
Takeaways
- See the sigmoid flexure as the body’s gatekeeper — the last “waiting room” before waste exits.
- Understand that when it’s working smoothly, it keeps digestion and fluid balance on track.
- Notice when it’s “out of rhythm” — constipation, cramping, incomplete emptying, gas, bloating, or even brain fog.
- Remember that we almost always start here in class, gently introducing movement in the sigmoid to free up fluids and ease tension.
The Sigmoid Flexure (Sigmoid Colon)
Natural Movement Patterns
- The sigmoid flexure (the S-shaped part of the large intestine just before the rectum) acts like a holding reservoir for stool.
- Normally, peristaltic waves move digested material through the colon in rhythmic contractions. When it reaches the sigmoid, the colon slows things down, allowing water to be reabsorbed and stool to firm up.
- The sigmoid then works almost like a gatekeeper — storing waste until the body signals it’s the right time to pass into the rectum.
- This coordination depends on reflexes between the enteric nervous system (gut nerves), abdominal pressure, and sphincter relaxation.
How It Holds Until "Ready"
- The walls of the sigmoid colon have tonic contractions (gentle squeezing) that keep stool in place.
- The rectosigmoid junction is the bend where the sigmoid meets the rectum. This bend and its muscular tone are what prevent premature emptying.
- Only when a strong mass peristalsis wave arrives (often after meals, “gastrocolic reflex”) does stool move from the sigmoid into the rectum, creating the urge to defecate.
- In other words, the sigmoid flexure is like the last waiting room before exit.
Indications It’s out of Rhythm
- Constipation: sluggish motility, stool “stuck” in the sigmoid loop.
- Spasms or cramping: irregular tightening, often felt in the lower left abdomen.
- Incomplete evacuation: stool passes, but feels like “something is still there.”
- Alternating loose and hard stool: a sign that the sigmoid is either holding too long or not coordinating release properly.
- Gas and bloating: poor movement and holding patterns lead to distension.
For Your Class Context (Lymphatic & Bodywork Lens)
- When the sigmoid is sluggish, it backs up pressure upstream, affecting lymphatic drainage in the abdomen and pelvis.
- Gentle abdominal massage and rhythmic movement around the sigmoid region can help restore peristaltic rhythm and relieve congestion.
- In manual therapy, you may observe protective abdominal tension or restricted fascial glide over the left lower quadrant when the sigmoid is “out of sync.”
- In this work, we almost always start by releasing lymphatic and interstitial fluid with gentle movement in the sigmoid flexure. (There are no hard rules — we always go with what’s in front of us — but this is where the process most often begins.)
This page is here to help you connect with the work mentally. In class, we’ll spend our time learning it tactilely — practicing how to feel, respond, and release in real time.
Takeaway
The periosteum is like a living sponge that absorbs interstitial fluid and saturates the bones with nourishment.
When circulation at this level is sluggish, bone vitality, repair, and resilience are compromised.
The Berry Method® restores this deep movement, bringing life back into the bones themselves — which is critically important for bone health.
Why Movement Down to the Periosteum Matters
The periosteum is the thin, living membrane that covers every bone. Rich in blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerves, it serves as the interface between circulation and skeletal tissue.
In the Berry Method®, slow, wave-like pressure is intentionally transmitted all the way down to the periosteum — a depth that most other techniques do not reach. Because their work remains more superficial, they are less efficient and less effective at stimulating true fluid movement at the bone’s living surface.
By reaching the periosteum, the Berry Method® activates its unique “sponge-like” capacity: absorbing interstitial fluid and saturating the bones with nourishment that is critically important for bone health.
Indications of Compromise
- Deep, dull “bone-level” aching not relieved by muscle work
- Cool, pale, or slow-to-flush skin over limbs
- Delayed healing of bruises or micro-traumas
- Persistent joint stiffness or reduced rebound
- A sense of heavy limbs, fatigue, or brain fog
Benefits of Restoring Fluid Motion
- Bone nourishment – periosteum soaks up fluid and saturates bones with nutrients
- Faster repair – hydration supports osteoblast activity and tissue recovery
- Inflammation relief – sluggish fluid clears, easing deep irritation
- Fascial resilience – tendons/ligaments anchored to periosteum move more freely
- Whole-limb lightness – clients often feel arms/legs “lighter” after treatment
Influence on Bone Health
Healthy periosteal circulation keeps bones dynamic, adaptive, and resilient.
- Supports constant remodeling and repair
- Improves density and reduces fracture risk
- Enhances communication between the bone, fascia, and proprioception
- Helps bones respond better to exercise and everyday loading
In Short
The Berry Method® treats bone as a living, nourished tissue, not just a structural frame — and that’s one reason it restores such deep systemic vitality.
The Intestinal Lymphatic System.
Abstract
The lymphatic system of the gut plays important roles in the transport of dietary lipids, as well as in immunosurveillance and removal of interstitial fluid.
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Functional Organization of Intestinal Lymphatics
Unlike the closed loop formed by the blood-vascular network, the lymphatic system is a unidirectional transport system designed to return fluid to the blood circulation. The lymphatic network consists of blind-ended capillaries located in most tissues that funnel into progressively fewer and larger precollecting and collecting vessels.
Lymph from the gastro-intestinal and lumbar region drains into the cisterna chyli at the posterior end of the thoracic duct and enters the circulation at the level of the subclavian vein.5, 6
In the intestine, lymphatic capillaries, or lacteals, are located exclusively in intestinal villi, whereas collecting lymphatic vessels are present in the mesentery.7 The term gut lymphatics used throughout this review refers to both lacteals in the intestinal villi and lymphatic vessels in the submucosa. The structural organization of intestinal stroma has been elegantly described by Bernier-Latmani et al,8, 9 who also provide detailed protocols for generating high-resolution 3-dimensonal images of gut cell types including blood and lymphatic vessel cells, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells.
The full research article is available at our own National Library of Medicine.
The autonomic nervous system is a component of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary physiologic processes including heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, digestion, and sexual arousal. It contains three anatomically distinct divisions: sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539845/
Sequence of digestion.
The process of digestion involves the mechanical and chemical breakdown of ingested food into smaller, absorbable components. The sequence of digestion occurs in several stages and involves various organs of the digestive system. Here is an overview of the key stages in the sequence of digestion:
1. Ingestion:
- The process begins with the intake of food through the mouth.
2. Mechanical Digestion (Mouth):
- Chewing (mastication) breaks down food into smaller particles, increasing its surface area.
- Saliva, produced by salivary glands, is mixed with the chewed food. Saliva contains enzymes (like amylase) that start the chemical breakdown of carbohydrates.
3. Propulsion (Swallowing):
- The tongue helps in forming a bolus (a mass of chewed food), which is then pushed to the back of the throat and swallowed.
- The act of swallowing involves coordinated muscle contractions (peristalsis) that move the food through the esophagus.
4. Chemical Digestion (Stomach):
- The bolus enters the stomach, where gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes (like pepsin), break down proteins.
- The stomach's churning action further breaks down food into a semi-liquid mixture called chyme.
5. Propulsion (Stomach to Small Intestine):
- The chyme is gradually released from the stomach into the small intestine through the pyloric sphincter.
6. Small Intestine:
a. Duodenum:
- Bile from the liver (stored in the gallbladder) and pancreatic juices enter the duodenum to aid in the digestion of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
b. Jejunum and Ileum:
- The majority of nutrient absorption occurs in the jejunum, including sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids.
- The ileum completes the absorption process, particularly for vitamin B12 and bile salts.
7. Propulsion (Small Intestine to Large Intestine):
- Peristaltic contractions move the remaining material (mostly water and undigested particles) into the large intestine.
8. Large Intestine:
- The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining material, forming solid feces.
- The colon also houses beneficial bacteria that aid in the fermentation of certain undigested substances.
9. Formation and Elimination of Feces:
- The remaining material, now transformed into feces, is stored in the rectum.
- The anal sphincters control the elimination of feces through the anus in a process known as defecation.
Throughout this sequence, various hormones and neural signals regulate digestive processes, ensuring that digestion and absorption are efficient and well-coordinated. The digestive system plays a vital role in providing the body with essential nutrients for energy, growth, and maintenance.
Peyer’s Patches – Overview
What they are
-
Peyer’s patches are clusters of lymphoid tissue located in the lining of the small intestine, especially the ileum.
-
They are part of the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), a significant component of the immune system.
Function
-
Immune surveillance: Peyer’s patches monitor the contents of the intestine for harmful microbes and foreign antigens.
-
Immune response: Specialized cells (M cells) transport antigens from the intestinal lumen into the patches, where lymphocytes (B cells, T cells) and antigen-presenting cells organize a response.
-
Production of antibodies: They help stimulate production of IgA antibodies, which are secreted into the gut to neutralize pathogens.
Why they matter in bodywork & lymphatic context
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They are one of the first lines of defense in the immune system against anything entering through the digestive tract.
-
Their activity can influence systemic immune balance, gut health, and lymphatic flow in the abdominal region.
-
Gentle abdominal and lymphatic work can support natural motility and circulation, indirectly benefiting how well Peyer’s patches can sample and respond to gut contents.
The abdominal protocol presented in this class serves a broad spectrum that can influence everyone's overall health. (I suggest reading the testimonials.)
It is helpful to understand the importance of colon-lymphatic relationships. In our work, learning the 'feel' of the technique while connected to relevant knowledge is a powerful combination.
Our very own 'National Library of Medicine' is an excellent resource for enhancing knowledge.
This webpage serves to connect the colon-lymphatic relationship.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3064563/
I hope this serves you.
The liver is a vital organ with a wide range of functions. It is located in the upper right side of the abdomen and is protected by the ribcage.
The following offers an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the liver:
Anatomy of the Liver:
- Lobes: The liver is divided into two main lobes: the right lobe and the left lobe. Each lobe is further subdivided into smaller lobes called lobules.
- Hepatocytes: The liver consists mainly of hepatocytes, which are the primary functional cells. Hepatocytes are responsible for carrying out the various metabolic and synthetic functions of the liver.
- Bile Ducts: Bile ducts within the liver transport bile, a substance produced by the liver that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. These ducts join together to form the common bile duct, which transports bile to the gallbladder and small intestine.
- Blood Supply: The liver has a dual blood supply. Oxygenated blood is supplied by the hepatic artery, while nutrient-rich but deoxygenated blood comes from the portal vein, which carries blood from the digestive organs. These blood supplies mix within the liver lobules.
- Gallbladder: While not part of the liver itself, the gallbladder is closely associated. It stores and releases bile produced by the liver to aid in the digestion of fats.
Physiology of the Liver:
1. Metabolic Functions:
- Carbohydrate Metabolism: The liver helps regulate blood glucose levels by storing glucose as glycogen or converting glycogen back to glucose as needed.
- Lipid Metabolism: It is involved in the synthesis and breakdown of lipids (fats).
2. Detoxification:
- The liver detoxifies harmful substances, such as drugs and toxins, by converting them into water-soluble forms for excretion. After the liver processes and removes toxins, the transformed or neutralized substances can follow different pathways for elimination from the body. The most common routes include:
- Bile Secretion: Many toxins are excreted into bile. Bile is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It is released into the small intestine during digestion. The toxins in the bile can either be eliminated with feces or reabsorbed into the bloodstream.
- Fecal Elimination: Toxins that are excreted into bile and not reabsorbed may end up in the feces. This is a primary route for the elimination of certain waste products.
- Urinary Excretion: Some toxins, after being processed by the liver, are converted into water-soluble compounds that can be excreted through the kidneys in urine.
- Exhalation: Certain volatile toxins may be eliminated through the lungs during exhalation. This is more relevant for substances with a gaseous nature.
- Sweating: Minimal elimination of toxins can occur through sweat. This is not a major route but can contribute to the removal of certain substances from the body.
It's important to note that the specific elimination route depends on the nature of the toxin and how the liver processes it. The liver's detoxification processes aim to convert toxins into forms that are easier for the body to eliminate through these various routes, reducing their potential harm.
3. Protein Synthesis:
- Hepatocytes synthesize various proteins, including blood-clotting factors, albumin, and enzymes.
4. Storage:
- The liver stores certain vitamins (such as vitamin B12 and vitamin D) and minerals.
- It stores glycogen for energy reserves.
5. Bile Production:
- Hepatocytes produce bile, which is important for the emulsification and digestion of fats.
6. Blood Regulation:
- The liver plays a role in regulating blood volume and composition by filtering and processing blood from the digestive organs.
7. Immunological Functions:
- Kupffer cells, specialized immune cells in the liver, help remove bacteria and other foreign particles from the blood.
Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the liver is crucial, as the liver performs essential functions that impact metabolism, digestion, detoxification, and overall homeostasis in the body. Liver health is vital for maintaining overall well-being.
Lymphatic class preparation.
Click here to email Taum the name you want to be used on your class certificate.
Your email is a component of your registration for:
The Lauren Berry Method® of Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Part 1: Saturday, June 20th
and
Part 2: Saturday, June 27th
I suggest eating lightly before class.
Snacks and water are advised.
There will be a lunch break, approximately 1 pm.
The Pleural Cavity and Its Functions.
The pleural cavity is the thin, fluid-filled space between the lung surface (visceral pleura) and the chest wall (parietal pleura). It serves three essential functions: maintaining a negative-pressure seal, recycling fluid, and providing lubrication.
1. Negative Pressure (Vacuum Effect)
- The parietal and visceral pleura are closely apposed, sliding against each other with every breath.
- The thin layer of fluid between them maintains a negative pressure (vacuum-like seal) that keeps the lungs expanded against the chest wall.
- This suction effect ensures that when the chest wall expands, the lungs expand with it.
2. Fluid Recycling Through Porous Membranes
- From the lungs: Fluid and small solutes can pass outward through the porous visceral pleura, moving from the lung’s capillaries and interstitial spaces into the pleural cavity.
- From the chest wall: Capillaries in the parietal pleura also secrete fluid into the pleural space.
- Balance & clearance: Excess pleural fluid is absorbed mainly through lymphatic stomata (tiny flap-like openings that act like drains into the lymphatic system) in the parietal pleura, especially along the diaphragm and mediastinum.
- Once absorbed, the fluid travels into lymphatic capillaries → larger lymphatic vessels → thoracic duct or right lymphatic duct → venous bloodstream, completing the recycling loop and maintaining proper fluid balance.
3. Lubrication Between Surfaces
- The thin layer of pleural fluid allows the parietal and visceral pleura to slide smoothly across one another during breathing.
- This lubrication reduces friction and prevents lung tissue from rubbing harshly against ribs and muscles.
In summary: The pleural cavity maintains a vacuum seal to keep the lungs expanded, recycles pleural fluid through secretion and lymphatic drainage, and lubricates the pleural surfaces so the lungs move freely with each breath.
The digestive system is a group of organs responsible for the conversion of food into absorbable chemicals that are then used to provide energy for growth and repair. The digestive system is also known by a number of other names, including the gut, the digestive tube, the alimentary canal, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, the intestinal tract, and the intestinal tube. The digestive system consists of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and small and large intestines, along with several glands, such as the salivary glands, liver, gall bladder, and pancreas. These glands secrete digestive juices containing enzymes that break down the food chemically into smaller, more absorbable molecules. In addition to providing the body with the nutrients and energy it needs to function, the digestive system also separates and disposes of waste products ingested with the food.
Physiology of the Large Intestine.
Function:
The large intestine has 3 primary functions: absorbing water and electrolytes, producing and absorbing vitamins, and forming and propelling feces toward the rectum for elimination. By the time indigestible materials have reached the colon, most nutrients and up to 90% of the water has been absorbed by the small intestine. The role of the ascending colon is to absorb the remaining water and other key nutrients from the indigestible material, solidifying it to form stool. The descending colon stores feces that will eventually be emptied into the rectum. The sigmoid colon contracts to increase the pressure inside the colon, causing the stool to move into the rectum. The rectum holds the feces awaiting elimination by defecation.
Testimonials
July 2018
Hi everyone my name is Shelly Beale. I'm a licensed massage therapist in Idaho... I have known Taum for about 7 years, and I've been to several of his classes. The lymphatic drainage class is one of my favorites. I have taken this class twice and use the information a lot.
About four years ago I was taking a class with Taum... I don't remember which one but I had gone into class and was upset. My teacher Sue and Taum had noticed how upset I was.. they both asked me what was wrong I explained I had a mammogram earlier that day I had to go back and have another one...two in one day..... The doctor decided I needed a biopsy the following Monday on a lump they had found. Taum did the lymphatic work on my stomach and arms, and proceeded to show me how to do the breast drain on myself, which I have shown several women. I love it!!!! I believe it helped me.. from Friday evening when he showed me the breast drain I did it on myself on Saturday and Sunday I did it again on Monday morning before we went to talk to the doctor, we decided not to do the biopsy but to do surgery and take the whole entire lump out... they did another mammogram and found that it had gotten smaller from Friday's mammogram. 5 days later we did the surgery and in that 5 days time it had gone down more than what the first mammogram showed.
So in my own experience, I truly believe in the lymphatic drainage. Like I said it's one I truly use a lot and believe it has helped me... and I've seen it work on others. Taum and his work are amazing. ❤
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November 8, 2007
This year, in your concern that another gifted woman had perished from breast cancer, you explained a technique that you called a "breast drain" that any woman could do to encourage drainage and removal of toxins from the breast tissue and glands. For several decades in the offices of several personal physicians (I have moved several times), I had heard expressions of concern during manual breast exams because of suspicious lumpiness within the tissue of my breasts. I would be repeatedly called back after a mammogram to have additional testing done.
A biopsy was never required but there was always the nagging sense that something needed to be carefully watched. There was also always a painfulness that I accepted as "normal". The doctors determined that I had a cystic condition in both breasts. During my most recent exam, however, after only a few months of applying the technique you explained, my doctor seemed quite pleasantly surprised that the tissue seemed much smoother. In fact, she did not mention a cystic content and even declared that the tissue condition was like that of a much younger woman. Now that is something that every older woman appreciates hearing! Best of all, the painfulness I had tried to ignore for so many years has virtually disappeared. I have passed your information along to both my daughters. So, you see, your good influence continues beyond the immediate sphere in which you do your therapeutic work.
Carol Ann
Information related to Visceral Massage.
Peristalsis is a vital, muscular process characterized by the rhythmic, coordinated contractions of the circular and longitudinal muscles in the digestive tract. These contractions create wave-like movements that propel and mix the contents, ensuring efficient digestion and transport from the esophagus to the rectum.
1. Muscle Types Involved:
- Circular Muscles: These muscles encircle the digestive tract.
- Longitudinal Muscles: These muscles run lengthwise along the digestive tract.
2. Coordinated Contractions:
- Sequential Contraction and Relaxation:
- The process starts with the circular muscles contracting behind the food bolus (a mass of chewed food).
- This contraction narrows the lumen (interior space) of the digestive tract, pushing the bolus forward.
- Longitudinal muscles then contract ahead of the bolus, shortening and widening the tract to receive the bolus.
- Following this, the circular muscles relax behind the bolus while new contractions form further along the tract.
3. Wave-like Motion:
- The combination of these muscle actions creates a wave-like motion that propels the contents through the digestive tract.
- This motion is rhythmic and occurs in a coordinated manner to ensure efficient movement and mixing of the digestive contents.
4. Peristaltic Waves:
- These are the repetitive, rhythmic contractions that create the movement.
- Each peristaltic wave pushes the contents a bit further along the tract, ensuring that food, liquid, and waste materials move from the esophagus to the stomach, through the intestines, and finally to the rectum for excretion.
Detailed Steps of Peristalsis:
1. Initiation:
- A bolus enters the esophagus, triggering the reflex of peristalsis.
2. Circular Muscle Contraction:
- Circular muscles contract behind the bolus, squeezing it forward.
3. Longitudinal Muscle Contraction:
- Longitudinal muscles contract ahead of the bolus, shortening and expanding the tract segment.
4. Relaxation Phase:
- Circular muscles relax behind the bolus, reducing resistance and allowing the next segment to prepare for the bolus.
5. Repetition:
- This process repeats in a coordinated, wave-like fashion along the length of the digestive tract.
Summary:
Peristalsis is a vital, muscular process. This class helps with this vital process.
Taum's approach to manual therapy is primarily influenced by the work of Lauren Berry Sr, Registered Physical Therapist and Structural Engineer.
Structural engineering is a sub-discipline of civil engineering. Structural engineers design the 'bones and muscles' that create the form, shape, and function of structures.
They also work with and understand the plumbing systems within those structures.
One of Lauren's many unique gifts to the manual therapy world was the concept of soft-tissue balance and distortion.
This is so appropriate:-)
Click here for more information on Lauren.
A Holistic approach.
It serves to remember that we, as therapists, do not heal anything. We simply recognize, respect, and support the body's 'built-in' healing ability.
Corrective Massage recognizes the importance of balanced relationships, movements, and interactions throughout the body's soft tissues*. These relationships include natural anatomical positions and functionally balanced movement unimpeded by soft tissue tension.
Functional balance implies that our soft tissues are working harmoniously to support pain-free, healthy movement and function.
In Taum's world of Corrective Massage, considering all bodily movement as an orchestration of soft tissue relationships is a fundamental principle and starting point.
These foundational principles include familiarity with Equilibrium and Homeostasis. AKA Balance.
For example: Walking initially appears to be a simple activity. It actually involves a complex orchestration of numerous soft tissues.
A symphony of movement:
Our body requires over 200 of our 600 muscles to take one step. Of those 200, many serve as compensating adapters working in the background to keep us upright as we walk. While all our weight is on the right foot, those background muscles are adapting and counterbalancing so we do not fall over.
Each and every soft tissue plays a vital role in the body's ability to move and adapt to unbalanced tensions.
Our bodies can adapt to those tensions.
But only so far...
Limping is an example of crossing the adaptation line.
Pain serves as an alert that unbalanced tension has exceeded the body's ability to adapt, and corrective therapy is required.
The foundational focus of this unique therapy is to interpret the alert and then identify and correct the soft tissue tensions and imbalances that have created those alerts.
Corrective massage has repeatedly proven to be an efficient and effective method to reduce and relieve pain.
I hope this information serves you and those you serve.
*Muscles, tendons, ligaments, membranes, and viscera.
Terminology
Origin: The beginning site, the more fixed attachment of the muscle. Can be considered as the anchoring point.
Insertion: The movable attachment of the distal end of the muscle.
Entheses: Locations of stress concentration where tendons and ligaments attach to bone.
Superior: Toward the upper part of the structure.
Inferior: Toward the lower part of the structure.
Anterior: Nearer to the front of the body.
Posterior: Nearer to or at the back of the body.
Medial: Near the midline of the body.
Lateral: Farther from the midline of the body.
Proximal: Near the point of attachment, center of the body.
Distal: Away from the trunk, from the center.
External: Towards the surface of the body.
Internal: Away from the surface of and within the body.
Plantar: Refers to the bottom of the foot.
Dorsal: Refers to the top of the foot.
Unilaterally: Contracting on one side.
Bilaterally: Contracting on both sides.
Inversion: To turn inward.
Eversion: To turn outward.
Synergist: Cooperating and supporting.
Antagonist: That which counteracts, opposes.
Agonist: The muscle directly engaged in contraction.
Proprioceptors: Proprioceptors are specialized sensory receptors that are responsible for providing information about the position, movement, and tension loads of muscles and joints.
For more information: Proprioceptors
Periosteum: The periosteum is a dense highly innervated membrane composed of fibrous connective tissue that closely wraps (invests) all bone, except that of the articulating surfaces in joints which are covered by a synovial membrane.
The periosteum is the most densely innervated, followed by bone marrow and cortex. It is important to recognize and respect the sensitivity of this membrane. It may well be the most sensitive component in the body.
For more information: Sensory Innervation of Human Bone
"Peri-" is a prefix borrowed from the Greek meaning "around or about" and "-osteum" also comes from the Greek, from "osteon" meaning "bone", so periosteum literally means "around the bone."
Golgi Tendon Organ (GTO): A spindle-shaped structure near the muscular/tendinous junction. This structure is thought to function as a feedback system that monitors muscle tension, inhibits muscle contraction of the agonist, and facilitates contraction of the antagonistic muscle. The purpose of this mechanism is to prevent overuse and damage to the muscle and involved joint.
Additional resources for anatomical clarity:
It is essential to understand that Lauren’s work, The Berry Method®, sometimes appears to be almost miraculous — get used to it.
Why?
Because this unique ‘Whole-Body Approach’ recognizes and works with nearly every component of the body that a bodyworker can reach.
The muscular, visceral, fascial, and lymphatic systems all play vital roles, and when we encourage them to return to balanced harmony, the body can restore its own miraculous self-healing abilities.
Remember: it’s not us doing the healing — it’s the body. We’re simply giving it the support it needs to move.
Because this bigger picture can feel overwhelming at first, I teach it in parts. In this class, the focus is on the lymphatic system, as it directly connects to digestion, immunity, and the body’s own self-healing processes. By learning this piece, therapists gain tools that integrate seamlessly into a bigger picture of supporting long-term client health.