Keeping Abreast of It

Are your breasts getting enough attention? I mean, apart from your yearly mammogram and the occasional exam, how are you caring for them? We massage lotions and potions into just about every body part, but our breasts are often left out of the wellness routine…and they deserve our attention.

For starters, the body’s lymphatic system is highly concentrated near the breast and underarm. The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. It also transports lymph — a fluid containing white blood cells — throughout the body, and is an important part of our immune system.¹ Wearing a bra (especially underwire) can cause stagnation in the area and interfere with lymph circulation. Taking off your bra and massaging your breasts at the end of the day can help drain the stagnant lymph fluid and support detox and circulation to the tissue.

Breast massage can reduce hormonal tenderness and reduce swelling, Not to mention, the skin on our breasts and chest is thinner than the rest of our body and needs moisturizer (and natural sunscreen!) to prevent signs of aging. Perhaps most important of all, it is an effective preventative care measure. Regular breast massage will keep you familiar with your own body, so you’ll be the first one to notice any changes. Courtney Kinnare of Noniko Natural Skincare recommends using a breast specific product, and making it part of your self-care routine. “You are not only moisturizing your décolletage, but you are also familiarizing yourself with your ‘normal.’ Early detection is one of the keys to beating breast cancer and by getting to know your body, you are increasing your chances of noticing any differences.”

Some other tips for breast wellness? Rethink your underwire bra. Ideally you want a bra that offers support without cutting off circulation. And use natural deodorant. Your underarms are right next to your breasts and packed with lymph nodes. Standard deodorants contain aluminum and hormone-disrupting preservatives like parabens, both of which pose health concerns.

Need some inspiration? Try one of these multi-tasking, non-toxic, breast-positive products, and add some breast care to your self-care.

1 – When Beauty and the Breast Bio Cellulose Breast Mask
www.whenbeautyus.com

2 – Hatch — Nipple and Lip Rescue Balm
www.hatchcollection.com/

3 – Noniko — Boob Balm
https://nonikoskin.com/

4 -Mega Babe — Bust Dust
https://megababebeauty.com/

5 – Dirty Girl Farm — Boobie Butter
www.dirtygirlfarm.com

6 – Aroms Natur — Love Your Breasts daily firming massage oil
www.aromsnaturskincare.com

7 – Banyan Botanicals — Breast Care Balm
https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/

8 – Lansinoh — Organic Nipple Balm
https://lansinoh.com/

9 – Simply Divine Botanicals — Keeping Abreast Of It
www.simplydivinebotanicals.com/