If you’ve never experienced a Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) session before, you might be wondering:
What actually happens during the treatment?
Will it hurt?
Do I need to prepare anything?
In this blog, I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect, so you can arrive feeling relaxed, confident, and ready to receive the full benefits of this beautifully gentle therapy.
First, a Little About Me
I’m Tania, a qualified therapeutic massage therapist with over a decade of experience, and a Dr. Vodder Applied MLD Level 2 practitioner. I offer MLD treatments from three peaceful, welcoming locations:
📍 Devonport – North Shore (private home-based clinic)
📍 Ranui – West Auckland (private home-based clinic)
📍 Waitakere Health Hub – Henderson
My practice, Release Reset Massage, is all about helping you feel lighter, more balanced, and deeply supported — physically and emotionally.
What Is MLD?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, rhythmic technique designed to stimulate your body’s lymphatic system, which plays a key role in detoxifying, reducing swelling, and boosting immunity.
This isn’t a deep tissue or muscular massage — it’s a unique therapy that works on the surface of the skin with feather-light pressure, specific sequences, and slow flowing movements.
Before Your Appointment
There’s not much you need to do to prepare, but here are a few tips:
- Hydrate before and after your session to support your body’s natural flushing process.
- Avoid heavy meals immediately before treatment.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
If you’re coming for post-surgical support, feel free to bring any notes or recommendations from your surgeon or specialist — I’ll tailor your treatment accordingly.
During the Session
Your first session begins with a short chat so I can understand your health history, concerns, and what you’d like to focus on — whether it’s post-surgical recovery, chronic fatigue, swelling, sinus congestion, or general wellness.
You’ll then lie comfortably on the massage table, covered with a towel for warmth and modesty. The treatment itself involves slow, rhythmic hand movements that follow the natural direction of lymph flow.
Many clients are surprised by how deeply relaxing MLD is. You might even drift off to sleep — and that’s perfectly okay!
After the Session
You may feel:
- Relaxed and lighter
- Sleepy or very calm
- A need to use the bathroom more frequently (a good sign your lymph system is activating!)
I’ll offer tips after the session to help you make the most of the benefits, including hydration and gentle movement.
Some people feel results immediately; others notice a gradual improvement over a few sessions — especially if dealing with swelling, chronic fatigue, or scar tissue.
Why Book with Me?
As a Dr. Vodder Level 2 Applied MLD therapist, I’ve trained in the most recognised method for safe, effective lymphatic support. I work with:
- Post-surgical and cosmetic recovery
- Chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or venous insufficiency
- Facial/neck drainage and sinus issues
- Scar tissue healing
- General detox and wellness support
Every session is customised, respectful, and focused on your comfort and healing.
Ready to Feel the Benefits?
If you’re curious about how MLD could help you, I’d love to hear from you. I’m currently accepting new clients at my clinics in Devonport, Ranui, and Henderson.
✨ Whether you’re recovering, managing a chronic issue, or simply seeking more balance in your body — your lymphatic system is worth supporting.
📞 Feel free to reach out with questions, or book your first session here.
Let’s help your body release, reset, and restore — one gentle step at a time.
I look forward to supporting your journey to better health.
RELEASE, RESET, RENEW.
With care,
Tania
Release Reset Massage
Dr. Vodder Level 2 Applied MLD Practitioner | Therapeutic Massage Specialist