Manual Lymphatic Drainage is one of the gentlest massage experiences offered at Kahe Hands. Using slow, light and rhythmical movements, it provides a calm, unhurried experience that many clients find deeply relaxing. It is often chosen by people who experience feelings of heaviness or swelling, or by those looking for a gentle massage following surgery or medical treatment where massage has been recommended as appropriate by their healthcare team.
Who This Massage Is For
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is commonly chosen by people who:
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Prefer a very gentle massage rather than firm pressure.
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Experience feelings of heaviness or swelling.
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Have been advised by their healthcare provider that Manual Lymphatic Drainage may be appropriate.
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Are looking for a calm, nurturing massage experience after cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.
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Spend long hours sitting, standing or travelling and enjoy lighter bodywork.
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Simply prefer a slow, relaxing style of massage.
If you're unsure whether this is the right massage for your needs, we're happy to help you choose the most appropriate option.
The Problems or Goals It Best Suits
Clients often choose Manual Lymphatic Drainage because they are looking for a massage that is:
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Exceptionally gentle.
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Relaxing and calming.
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Comfortable for sensitive areas.
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Suitable when firm pressure isn't preferred.
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Focused on light, rhythmical touch rather than deep muscle work.
Many people who enquire about this massage mention feelings of swelling, heaviness or tightness. Others choose it because it has been suggested as part of their broader care by a healthcare professional.
How It Feels and the Pressure Used
This is one of the lightest massage styles available.
The movements are slow, rhythmical and repetitive, using only gentle pressure on the surface of the skin. Unlike Deep Tissue or Sports Massage, there is no strong muscle pressure and the session should never feel intense or uncomfortable.
Many clients describe the experience as peaceful, soothing and deeply relaxing. It is an ideal choice if you prefer a quiet, unhurried massage that allows you to completely switch off.
What Happens During the Session
Your appointment begins with a conversation about what has brought you to Kahe Hands and what you hope to gain from your massage. This helps us understand your preferences and ensure the session is tailored to your comfort.
During the massage, your therapist uses slow, gentle, rhythmical movements, adapting the session to the areas you would like to focus on. The pace remains calm throughout, creating a relaxing experience without the stronger pressure associated with muscular massage techniques.
At the end of your appointment, your therapist will answer any questions you may have and discuss whether another massage style might better suit your goals if appropriate.
Clothing, Oil and Draping
Professional draping is maintained throughout your appointment to ensure your privacy and comfort at all times.
Depending on the areas being massaged, you may be asked to remove some clothing while remaining appropriately covered throughout the session.
Typically very little massage oil is required because the techniques use gentle skin contact rather than long gliding strokes, but they are tailored to your preferences, so oil can be used.
Your therapist will explain everything before the massage begins so you always know what to expect.
How It Differs From Your Other Options
Manual Lymphatic Drainage offers a very different experience from the other massage styles available at Kahe Hands.
If you are looking for firmer pressure to ease muscular tension or to focus on tight muscles, Fusion Massage, Deep Tissue Massage or Sports Massage are usually more suitable choices.
If your preference is for a slow, gentle massage with light, rhythmical movements and minimal pressure, and your objective is to reduce water retention then Manual Lymphatic Drainage offers a distinctly different experience. Many clients choose it simply because they enjoy its calming pace and delicate touch.
If you're undecided, we'll happily discuss your goals and help you choose the massage that best matches what you're looking for.
Our recommendation
Every client arrives with different goals, preferences and circumstances, so there is no standard programme that suits everyone. Our recommendation is always based on your individual needs and, where relevant, any guidance you have already received from your healthcare team.
The following examples illustrate how many clients choose to incorporate Manual Lymphatic Drainage into their overall wellbeing routine.
Getting Started
Many clients choose to begin with a series of appointments to become familiar with the massage and establish a consistent routine.
Typical frequency: Once or twice a week for the first few weeks, depending on your preferences and circumstances.
Recommended appointment: 45–60 Minutes
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45 Minutes – R550 – Suitable when you'd like a focused yet unhurried session.
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60 Minutes – R750 – Our most common recommendation, allowing time for a relaxed, comprehensive experience.
Ongoing Wellbeing
Once clients have established a routine, many choose to space their appointments further apart while continuing to enjoy the gentle, calming nature of Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
Typical frequency: Every 2 to 4 weeks, although this varies from person to person.
Recommended appointment: 45–60 Minutes
This provides enough time to enjoy the full experience while allowing us to adapt each session to your individual preferences.
Focused Appointments
If your preference is for a shorter appointment concentrating on a specific area, a focused session may be appropriate.
Typical frequency: As individually recommended.
Recommended appointment: 30 Minutes – R400
This option is often selected by returning clients who would like the massage centred on one agreed area or who are fitting an appointment into a busy schedule.
Every recommendation is reviewed as your needs, preferences and goals change. If you're unsure where to start, we'll happily guide you towards the appointment that best suits you.
Suitable Therapists
Isabella Rademan
Isabella offers Manual Lymphatic Drainage with a gentle, attentive approach that places comfort, professionalism and individual care at the centre of every appointment. She adapts each session to your preferences, ensuring a calm and reassuring experience from beginning to end.
Safety or Reasons to Contact Us First
Please contact us before booking if:
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You have recently had surgery and are unsure when massage is appropriate.
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You have recently experienced sudden or unexplained swelling.
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You have an active infection, fever or are feeling unwell.
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You are pregnant and would like advice on the most suitable massage option.
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You are uncertain whether Manual Lymphatic Drainage is the best choice for your circumstances.
If another massage style is likely to better match your goals, we'll happily guide you towards the most suitable option.
Reviews
See what our clients have to say about their Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage experience in Centurion, Pretoria at Kahe Hands.
Book This Massage
If you're looking for a gentle, calming massage with slow, rhythmical movements and minimal pressure, Manual Lymphatic Drainage may be the perfect choice.
Whether you already know this is the experience you're looking for or would like help deciding between our massage styles, we'd love to help you choose the option that best suits your preferences. Book your appointment today or contact Kahe Hands if you'd like personalised guidance before making your booking.