Healing Hippies at Creekside
6 E Washington Ave Downtown Athens

Healing Hippies at Creekside 6 E Washington Ave Downtown AthensHealing Hippies at Creekside 6 E Washington Ave Downtown AthensHealing Hippies at Creekside 6 E Washington Ave Downtown Athens

423-920-5507

  • Home
  • Massage
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage
  • Trauma Release Work
  • Yoga Somatic Yoga Path
  • The HeartSage Path
  • Energy Work
  • More
    • Home
    • Massage
    • Manual Lymphatic Drainage
    • Trauma Release Work
    • Yoga Somatic Yoga Path
    • The HeartSage Path
    • Energy Work

423-920-5507

Healing Hippies at Creekside
6 E Washington Ave Downtown Athens

Healing Hippies at Creekside 6 E Washington Ave Downtown AthensHealing Hippies at Creekside 6 E Washington Ave Downtown AthensHealing Hippies at Creekside 6 E Washington Ave Downtown Athens
  • Home
  • Massage
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage
  • Trauma Release Work
  • Yoga Somatic Yoga Path
  • The HeartSage Path
  • Energy Work

Achieve Optimal Wellness with lymphatic drainage

Lymphatic Drainage for Overall Wellness

Lymphatic Drainage for Overall Wellness


Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle, rhythmic bodywork technique designed to support the body’s natural detoxification and immune systems. 


This modality works by encouraging the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body, helping to reduce stagnation, swelling, and inflammation while promoting deep relaxation and balance.

Unlike traditional massage, lymphatic drainage uses light, intentional pressure to stimulate lymph flow just beneath the skin. 


This makes it both effective and nurturing—supporting whole-body wellness without stressing the nervous system.


Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage


Lymphatic drainage may support:


  • Reduced swelling and fluid retention
  • Improved immune function
  • Relief from chronic inflammation and pain
  • Improved circulation and tissue health
  • Support during times of stress, fatigue, or burnout
  • Faster recovery after illness, surgery, or injury (with medical clearance)
  • Overall relaxation and nervous system regulation

Many clients also report improved energy levels, better sleep, and a general sense of lightness and ease after sessions.



Who Can Benefit from Lymphatic Drainage


This service is beneficial for individuals seeking:


  • Overall wellness and preventative care
  • Support with chronic illness or autoimmune conditions
  • Relief from inflammation, edema, or bloating
  • Gentle bodywork during times of stress or exhaustion
  • Post-surgical or post-procedure support (with physician approval)
  • A calming, non-invasive therapeutic experience


Sessions are customized to meet each client’s unique needs and comfort level.


Who Should Not Receive Lymphatic Drainage


Lymphatic drainage is not recommended for individuals with:


  • Active infections or fever
  • Acute inflammation
  • Untreated cancer or cancer currently undergoing active treatment (unless cleared by a physician)
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis
  • Kidney failure

If you are unsure whether lymphatic drainage is appropriate for you, please consult your healthcare provider prior to booking.


Session Pricing

  • 30 minutes – $55
  • 45 minutes – $75
  • 60 minutes – $100
  • 90 minutes – $135

Lymphatic Drainage for Overall Wellness offers a restorative, supportive approach to caring for your body—helping you feel lighter, more balanced, and deeply supported from the inside out.

Book Now

Massage and Lymphatic Drainage Combination

This would be a therapeutic massage for the back and shoulders followed by lymphatic drainage for arms, legs, face & neck or sinus clean out drainage.


60 minutes - $111


One hour session will concentrate on massage for the back and shoulders followed by lymphatic drainage for one area (face & neck, arms or legs)


90 minutes - $150


Ninety minute session will concentrate on massage for the back and shoulders followed by lymphatic drainage for multiple areas (face & neck, arms and legs)

book now

Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Mild Lipedema

Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Mild Lymphedema

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized technique that supports the movement of lymph fluid and helps reduce inflammation and fluid congestion in the body. For individuals with mild lipedema, MLD can be a supportive wellness therapy when incorporated into a comprehensive care plan and performed by a trained practitioner.


What Is Lipedema?


Lipedema is a chronic fat and connective tissue disorder that primarily affects women and most often appears in the legs, hips, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms. It is characterized by an abnormal and often painful accumulation of fat that is resistant to diet and exercise.


Common signs of lipedema may include:


  • Symmetrical enlargement of the legs or arms while hands and feet remain unaffected
  • Pain, tenderness, or sensitivity to touch
  • Easy bruising
  • Swelling that may worsen throughout the day
  • A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the affected areas


Over time, lipedema can place strain on the lymphatic system, potentially contributing to fluid buildup and inflammation.


How Manual Lymphatic Drainage May Help


For individuals with mild or early-stage lipedema, MLD may help:


  • Support lymphatic flow and fluid movement
  • Reduce swelling and inflammation
  • Decrease sensations of heaviness or discomfort
  • Support tissue health and circulation
  • Promote relaxation and nervous system regulation


MLD uses slow, rhythmic, and light-touch techniques designed to encourage lymph flow without stressing sensitive tissues.

Manual lymphatic drainage is not a cure for lipedema, but it may be a beneficial supportive therapy when used alongside medical care, movement, compression therapy, and lifestyle support as recommended by a healthcare provider.


Who Is Appropriate for MLD for Mild Lipedema


This service may be appropriate for individuals who:


  • Have been diagnosed with mild or early-stage lipedema
  • Are seeking gentle, non-invasive support
  • Experience swelling, tenderness, or heaviness
  • Have medical clearance when needed


Individuals with advanced lipedema or lipolymphedema may require care from a certified lymphedema or medical specialist.


Who Should Not Receive Manual Lymphatic Drainage


Manual lymphatic drainage is not recommended for individuals with:


  • Active infection or cellulitis
  • Fever or acute inflammation
  • Untreated or active cancer (unless cleared by a physician)
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Kidney failure
  • Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis


If you are unsure whether MLD is appropriate for your condition, please consult your healthcare provider before scheduling.


A Gentle, Supportive Wellness Approach


Sessions are provided with care, sensitivity, and respect for the unique challenges associated with lipedema. 


Each session is customized to support comfort, safety, and overall wellbeing.

Manual lymphatic drainage for mild lipedema is offered as a supportive wellness service and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.

book now

Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Mild Lymphedema

Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Mild Lymphedema

Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Mild Lymphedema

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, specialized technique designed to support the movement of lymph fluid within the body. For individuals with mild lymphedema, MLD can be a supportive part of a comprehensive wellness and self-care plan when provided by a trained practitioner and with appropriate medical guidance.


What Is Lymphedema?


Lymphedema is a condition in which lymph fluid accumulates in the tissues, causing swelling—most commonly in the arms, legs, abdomen, or other areas of the body. This can occur when the lymphatic system is compromised or overwhelmed due to:


  • Surgery or lymph node removal
  • Radiation therapy
  • Injury or trauma
  • Chronic illness
  • Congenital or hereditary lymphatic conditions

Symptoms of mild lymphedema may include swelling, heaviness, tightness, reduced range of motion, or changes in skin texture.



How Manual Lymphatic Drainage Can Help


For individuals with mild lymphedema, MLD may help:


  • Encourage lymph fluid movement and drainage
  • Reduce swelling and fluid buildup
  • Decrease feelings of heaviness or discomfort
  • Support tissue health and circulation
  • Promote relaxation and nervous system balance


MLD uses slow, rhythmic, and light-touch techniques that follow the natural pathways of the lymphatic system. Sessions are customized to the individual’s presentation and tolerance.

Manual lymphatic drainage for lymphedema is not a cure, but it may be a beneficial supportive therapy when used alongside medical care, compression garments, exercise, and proper skin care as recommended by a healthcare provider.


Who Is Appropriate for MLD for Mild Lymphedema


This service may be appropriate for individuals who:


  • Have been diagnosed with mild or early-stage lymphedema
  • Have medical clearance when required
  • Are seeking gentle, non-invasive support
  • Are committed to ongoing self-care practices


Clients with moderate to severe lymphedema may require specialized clinical treatment and should consult a certified lymphedema therapist or medical professional.


Who Should Not Receive Manual Lymphatic Drainage


Manual lymphatic drainage is not recommended for individuals with:


  • Active infection or cellulitis
  • Fever or acute inflammation
  • Untreated or active cancer (unless cleared by a physician)
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Kidney failure
  • Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis


If you are unsure whether MLD is appropriate for your condition, please consult your healthcare provider prior to booking.


A Gentle, Supportive Approach


Sessions are performed with care, respect, and attentiveness to your body’s needs. The goal is to support comfort, safety, and overall wellness while honoring the body’s natural healing processes.


Manual lymphatic drainage for mild lymphedema is offered as a supportive wellness service and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.

Book now

Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage for Mild Lymphedema

Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage

Post-surgical lymphatic drainage is a specialized, gentle technique designed to support the body’s natural healing process following cosmetic and medical procedures. This modality encourages the movement of lymph fluid, helping to reduce swelling, inflammation, and fluid buildup while supporting comfort and recovery.


After surgery, the lymphatic system can become overwhelmed due to trauma to the tissues. Lymphatic drainage helps the body clear excess fluid and metabolic waste more efficiently, promoting a smoother, more comfortable healing experience.


Common Procedures That Benefit from Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage


Lymphatic drainage is commonly recommended following procedures including, but not limited to:


  • Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
  • Lipo 360
  • Breast augmentation (implants)
  • Breast lift
  • Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
  • Other cosmetic or reconstructive surgeries

All sessions are performed with care, respecting surgical sites, incisions, and the client’s stage of healing.


Benefits of Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage


Post-surgical lymphatic drainage may help:

  • Reduce swelling and fluid retention
  • Minimize discomfort and pressure
  • Support healthy scar tissue formation
  • Improve circulation and tissue health
  • Reduce the risk of fibrosis and hardening
  • Encourage a smoother, more even healing process
  • Promote relaxation and nervous system regulation during recovery


When to Start


Most clients begin lymphatic drainage within the first few days to weeks after surgery, depending on their procedure and their surgeon’s recommendations. A series of sessions is often suggested for optimal results, especially during the early stages of recovery.


Medical clearance from your surgeon is required prior to booking post-surgical lymphatic drainage.


Who Should Not Receive Post-Surgical Lymphatic Drainage


This service is not appropriate for individuals with:

  • Active infection or fever
  • Open or unhealed wounds beyond surgical expectations
  • Blood clots or deep vein thrombosis
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Kidney failure
  • Untreated cancer or cancer currently undergoing active treatment (unless cleared by a physician)


If you have concerns or complex medical conditions, please consult your healthcare provider before scheduling.


A Gentle, Supportive Approach to Healing


Post-surgical lymphatic drainage sessions are gentle, intentional, and tailored to your body’s needs and stage of recovery. The focus is on comfort, safety, and supporting the body’s innate healing abilities—never forcing or manipulating tissue.


This service is intended to complement, not replace, medical care and post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.


Each session is 90 Minutes $135


Currently Not Accepting New Post Surgery Clients 

Melanie McCarley MLD-C * CPST * LMT #14763 * RN

Coming Soon

Melanie has been a Licensed Massage Therapist since 2023, bringing a strong foundation of knowledge and experience across multiple therapeutic modalities. 


Her work focuses on Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD-C), scar tissue management and supporting clients through safe, effective lymphatic care.


She is a Certified Plastic Surgery Therapist (CPST) through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies, specializing in post-operative lymphatic treatments designed to assist the body’s natural healing process and support recovery after surgery.


In addition to her massage therapy training, Melanie has been a Registered Nurse since 2008 and holds an active Tennessee nursing license. With more than a decade of experience working with medical and surgical patients, she understands the importance of delivering high-quality, compassionate care while supporting each client’s overall health and well-being.


Melanie is grateful for the opportunity to offer lymphatic care at Creekside Wellness and to be part of a team dedicated to supporting healing, wellness, and recovery.


Christy Miu Mld-c * LMT #11865 * Reiki Master

Specializing in Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Intuitive Oncology Massage, Trauma Release, Private Yoga Sessions & Transformative Heart-Centered Wellness Coaching


Christy offers intuitive, heart-centered bodywork guided by presence, deep listening, and reverence for the body’s innate wisdom. Each session unfolds organically, creating space for healing, release, and reconnection.


Her work includes Manual Lymphatic Drainage for overall wellness, supporting the body’s natural detoxification, nervous system regulation, and immune function, while also helping relieve symptoms associated with chronic illness, inflammation, and pain.


Sessions blend mindful touch, energy-aware techniques, and gentle Thai-inspired movement. Tools such as Tok Sen, hot stones, hot bamboo, cupping, and scraping may be incorporated—always honoring your body’s natural rhythms, boundaries, and capacity in the moment.


✨ Appointment availability: Tuesday–Friday


To explore Christy’s full range of offerings and book a session, visit


👉 christymiu.com


Awaken Your natural Glow

Learn how to relieve puffiness and sinus issues with this course.

Self Lymphatic Facial Drainage Course


Unlock the gentle, powerful secret to a refreshed, radiant face—naturally.

This self-paced course teaches you how to support your lymphatic system through simple, effective facial drainage techniques designed to reduce puffiness, ease sinus pressure, and bring your skin back to life. With just a few minutes a day, you can experience visible, feel-good results.


Why Lymphatic Facial Drainage?


Your lymphatic system plays a vital role in clearing fluid buildup, supporting immune health, and reducing inflammation. When flow becomes stagnant, it can show up as:


  • Facial puffiness
  • Sinus congestion
  • Dull or tired-looking skin
  • Tension in the face and jaw


This course gives you the tools to gently restore flow—so you can look and feel more vibrant.


What You’ll Experience


  • A more sculpted, lifted appearance
  • Reduced puffiness and fluid retention
  • Relief from sinus pressure and congestion
  • Improved skin tone and clarity
  • A calming, self-care ritual that supports your whole body


Inside the Course


This is more than just a tutorial—it’s a complete, easy-to-follow experience:


  • Lymphatic Education
    Understand how your lymphatic system works and why it matters for your face and overall wellness
  • Facial Drainage Techniques
    Step-by-step guidance you can confidently practice on yourself
  • When to Practice + When to Pause
    Learn how to listen to your body and support it safely
  • Downloadable PDF Guide
    A beautifully designed reference with clear, step-by-step instructions
  • Follow-Along Video
    Practice in real time with guided support
  • Community Connection Space
    Ask questions, share your experience, and receive guidance directly from me


Let's Talk About Lymph

A Personal Invitation


I’m deeply passionate about the lymphatic system and empowering others with this simple, healing modality. This work doesn’t need to be complicated or exclusive—your body already knows what to do. I’m here to help you reconnect with it.


Your Investment

One-time payment: $5.55


Unlimited access. Lifetime support.


Begin Your Glow Ritual


Give yourself the gift of a natural reset—one that you can return to again and again.

Join Now and start feeling the difference today

Learn about the lymphatic system

Lymphatic system

Similar to the way your blood circulatory system delivers nutrients and oxygen to all cells of the body, the lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels that branch through all parts of the body to circulate important bodily fluid and defend against infection. 


When functioning well, the lymphatic system helps keep the body's needs in balance, but when things go wrong, disorders and cancer can result. Take a closer look at the important role your lymphatic system plays in keeping your body balanced and healthy. 


Then, incorporate our healthy lifestyle tips to encourage proper function for many years to come!


Parts of the Lymphatic System


The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs made up of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and lymph that drain lymph fluid (a fluid containing white blood cells, water, proteins, salts and lipids) from all over the body.


  • There are lymph nodes in your body that you can likely feel under your arm (in your armpit), in each groin (at the top of your legs) and in your neck.
  • There are also lymph nodes you may not be able to feel, such as those found in your abdomen, pelvis and chest.
  • Other lymphatic body organs include your spleen, thymus gland, tonsils and adenoids.


How the Lymphatic System Works


You can think of the lymphatic system as the body’s drainage system, working around-the-clock to clean up and properly dispose of waste left behind by other body systems. A healthy lymphatic system also contributes to many other major bodily functions, including:


Drains fluid back into the bloodstream


One of the lymphatic system’s primary jobs is to collect excess fluid (particularly lymph fluid) surrounding the body’s tissues and organs and return it to the bloodstream. If the lymphatic system didn’t drain excess fluid from the tissues, the lymph fluid would build up in the body and cause swelling.


Filters lymph


As lymph passes through the lymph nodes, the white blood cells attack any bacteria or viruses found in the lymph. If cancer cells break away from a tumor, they can attach to the nearby lymph nodes. This is the reason doctors will check the lymph nodes first when determining how far cancer has spread.


Filters the blood


The spleen filters blood, removing old red blood cells and replacing them with new red blood cells that are made in the bone marrow.


Removes impurities from the body


The lymphatic system also helps to remove toxins and other impurities from the body, such as carbon dioxide, sodium and other byproducts of cellular feeding on oxygen, minerals and nutrients. The system helps to remove these impurities and dispose of them through perspiration, bowel movements, urine and your breath.


Fights infection


The lymphatic system helps defend the body against illness-causing germs, bacteria, viruses and fungi. The system builds immunity by making special white blood cells (called lymphocytes) that produce antibodies which are responsible for immune responses that defend the body against disease.


Things That Can Go Wrong


When the lymphatic system is not functioning properly, it can put your body at risk for certain diseases that affect the lymph nodes, spleen or other parts of the lymphoid tissue, such as:


  • Lymphedema is a chronic swelling in one arm or leg caused by too much lymph fluid. Many people develop this disorder following cancer therapy.
  • Lymphadenopathy is a condition where the lymph nodes become swollen or enlarged.
  • Lymphoma is cancer that starts in the lymph nodes when lymphocytes change and multiply at an out-of-control rate.
  • Splenomegaly is a disease (usually caused by a viral infection) that causes the spleen to swell several times its normal size.


Keep Your Lymphatic System Healthy


Maintaining a healthy lymphatic system is important to prevent illness and keep other important body systems functioning. Encourage proper function of your lymphatic system by incorporating these healthy lifestyle tips:


  1. Drink plenty of water. 
  2. Eat a healthy diet rich in alkaline foods and vegetables that provide a full range of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
  3. Include healthy fats in your diet.
  4. Exercise daily, including both aerobic and anaerobic physical activity.
  5. Avoid pollutants, toxic substances and unhealthy environments.
  6. Learn to manage stress through techniques such as yoga, meditation and exercise to promote wellness.


Your lymphatic system is constantly working to keep your body balanced. Maintaining its health is important not only for its own role but the role it plays in many other body systems. 



When you recover or discover 

something that nourishes

 your soul and brings you joy, 

care enough about yourself 

to make room for it in your life! 

~ Jean Shindoda Bolen



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