Late Bloomer

Top Local Experts for Lymphatic Drainage Massage

March 24th, 2026
Introduction

If your explore page is anything like mine, you don’t go a day without seeing a new habit or gadget to add to your daily routine to magically solve all of your problems. Lymphatic Drainage has recently become a buzzword in the wellness community, and you may be wondering if this is worth your valuable time and resources or if it’s yet another fad that will go the way of teatoxes.

When I was in the thick of my wellness journey, riddled with gut dysbiosis, absorption issues, and severe hormone imbalance, I was intuitively drawn to this gentle modality. I won’t claim that lymphatic drainage massage is a magic cure-all, but I can say that supporting my lymphatic system with regular lymphatic drainage massage provided support and relief from my chronic pain and fatigue.

I’m not advocating for a 16th step to your morning routine or buying yet another gadget. Rather, I aim to shed light on a practice that is greatly misunderstood.

We all know that ICK feeling…sluggish, bloated, heavy overall, digestive issues pop up, skin issues linger, workouts feel harder, and recovery takes longer. If you’re like me, your mind can go to the worst case scenario, or you might assume you just need motivation to move more, adhere to a stricter protocol, and be more positive. However, these common symptoms may have a much gentler solution. If your body is talking to you with bloating, heaviness, or skin issues, your lymphatic system may need some love.

Regular, science-backed lymphatic work is worth your time. Instead of following a social media star or buying another viral gadget, I recommend prioritizing regular sessions with a local provider who has the skill and expertise to properly support you and your lymphatic system on your wellness journey.

Defining the Lymph

Let’s start with the basics by defining Lymph.

The word lymph is derived from Lympha, the Greek word for water and the name of the ancient Roman deity who embodied water’s divinity.

In The Book of Lymph, Lisa Levitt Gainsley describes the Lymphatic System as an “invisible system that is continually working beneath the surface and is connected to every inch of our body, tidying up and sending vitality and support to ensure that we are the most radiant and healthiest version of ourselves.”

The Lymphatic System is the body’s second and lesser-known circulatory system. It supports the immune system by producing white blood cells, helps the digestive system by absorbing fat and fatty acids from the gut and delivering them to the bloodstream for fuel, removes toxins and bacteria, and balances the fluids in your body to prevent swelling.

Lymphatic vessels, capillaries, and ducts run throughout the entire body, carrying fluids from your body’s cells to the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes, located in the head, neck, armpits, sternum, abdomen, the crease at the top of your thighs, your elbow creases, and behind your knees, eradicate toxins and recirculate clean fluid. About 6 pints of clean fluid are returned to your bloodstream each day! This mighty network lies just below the skin, thus only a gentle touch is required to stimulate the Lymphatic System.

Most of us are unaware of our Lymphatic System until we’re sick and notice inflammation in our lymph nodes (this is caused by extra white blood cells fighting infection).

Unlike the circulatory system, the Lymphatic System has no pump. Your Lymphatic Fluid moves toward the heart and is propelled by breath, skeletal contractions, and pulsing arteries. For this reason, breath work, exercise, and massage are vital to maintaining overall wellness.

What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

While all movement, and all massage, can have a positive impact on the lymphatic system, Lymphatic Drainage Massage has the specific aim of encouraging the movement of lymphatic fluids and the drainage of lymph nodes.

There are several methods of Lymphatic Drainage Massage, each with varying approaches and goals, but all start with pumping the lymph nodes and work the entire body toward the heart. The two most common methods are the Vodder Method and Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage.

The Vodder Method was developed by Dr. Emil and Estrid Vodder in the 1930s to combat edema, support post-surgery recovery, and promote immunity generally. Practitioners using the Vodder method employ gentle rhythmic and circular motions to stimulate the lymphatic system. The focus here is overall health and recovery.

If you’re used to conventional massage techniques, you may be surprised by how light the Vodder Method is and wonder if it is accomplishing anything at all. The pressure has been described as slightly more than a feather.

Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage tends to employ faster, firmer motions and combines traditional manual lymphatic drainage techniques with tools and body contouring techniques. Originating in Brazil, this method yields instant slimming and contouring and is popular with those wanting both health and aesthetic benefits.

The Many Benefits of Regular Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic Drainage Massage has long been used to combat symptoms of Lymphedema, Fibromyalgia, and Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Its recent popularity is due to its more common applications, such as relief from aches and pains, bloating, digestive issues, fatigue, eczema, constipation, and unexplained weight gain.

When you care for your lymphatic system, you reap benefits in your immunity, skin, digestion, energy, mental clarity, and appearance.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, your lymphatic system may be asking for support: (this list was compiled by Levitt Gainsley in The Book of Lymph)
- Acne and skin breakouts
- Allergies
- Bloating and water retention
- Blood clots
- Brain fog
- Bronchitis
- Chemical pollutants
- Chronic earaches/clogged ears
- Constipation
- Cuts slow to heal
- Dehydration
- Difficulty losing weight
- Digestive issues
- Edema
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fatigue
- Fibroids/cysts
- Headaches
- Hormone imbalances, including cortisol, PMS, perimenopause, menopause
- Inflamed tonsils
- Itchy skin/eczema/rashes
- Kidney disease
- Lymphedema
- Muscle stiffness/joint pain/arthritis
- Obesity
- Pain or discomfort while exercising
- Puffiness in face and neck
- Scar tissue
- Sinus congestion and infections
- Sore throats
- Stress
- Swelling of joints; swelling of extremities on airplanes
- Upper respiratory issues
My Local Recommendations:

Some girls are asked about their outfits and skincare…I am asked about lymphatic drainage almost daily. It’s been years since my last article on lymphatic drainage, and so much has changed in our area and in the world of lymphatic drainage. After years of sending messages listing all of my favorites, I decided to compile an updated list of my favorite local lymphatic drainage practitioners.

Each of these practitioners is a highly-qualified expert who I recommend whole-heartedly. They use a wide variety of techniques and bring different strengths and focuses to their sessions. I present them in alphabetical order.

Emiliya Cherkashin, The Cura Vitae at Rare Wellness

My Take:

I didn’t think that the EDEN that is Rare Wellness could get better, but the addition of Emiliya and her lymphatic drainage-focused massage practice did just that!

Rare Wellness truly is an Eden for holistic body and soul care tucked into Spokane’s South Hill. In one serene setting, visitors can take advantage of a wide variety of aesthetic treatments (think hydrafacials, dermaplaning, injectables, microneedling, vampire facials, body waxing, chemical peels, and more), premium group classes, luxury massage therapy, and IV treatments. Emiliya and her lymphatic drainage practice is a natural fit. From the moment our session began, I was more relaxed than I’ve been in a very long time. Her presence is grounding, her passion is striking, and her careful, unadulterated approach to lymphatic work had me floating through the rest of my day.

Emiliya practices the Vodder method. Expect gentle touch sans excess oils (I loved that my hair wasn’t a greasy mess when I met friends for lunch after . . . maybe not important, but a nice perk). The focus here is gently supporting the lymphatic system rather than sculpting. I felt energized and lighter and noticed my digestion improved in the days that followed.

Emiliya was first exposed to Lymphatic Drainage Massage when her mother, who suffered from lymphedema, found relief via regular treatments. She thought she’d enter the medical field, but after seeing the transformative power of this gentle practice, she became passionate about providing that same relief to others.

You can book your lymphatic drainage massage with Emiliya at rarewellness.com and connect with her via @thecuravitae

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Emiliya Cherkashin)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

I’ve always wanted a career where I can help people in some way. I’ve always wanted to be in the medical field but situations and circumstances never lined up for me to have that opportunity. One inspiration for me to start getting into lymphatic work was my mom. She struggles with edema in her legs and bad headaches. She got lymphatic work done consistently and started seeing my less inflammation and a significant decrease in her headaches. Since I’ve always wanted to help people I figured massage and specializing in lymphatic would help people tremendously since it beneficial for everyone.

2. What differentiates your practice?

What differentiates my practice is that I combine precise, clinically informed lymphatic techniques with a deeply restorative, and energizing experience. I don’t approach lymphatic drainage as just a routine sequence — I tailor each session to the client’s specific needs, whether that’s post-operative support, inflammation reduction, detoxification, or overall wellness.

3. Can you describe your typical client?

A typical lymphatic massage client may be someone experiencing water retention, inflammation, post-surgical swelling, digestive sluggishness, or fatigue. Many are women who feel bloated, puffy, or hormonally imbalanced, or individuals looking to support recovery after cosmetic or medical procedures.

However, lymphatic massage is not limited to one type of person. Because the lymphatic system plays a key role in immune function, detoxification, and fluid balance, this therapy benefits nearly everyone — from busy professionals under stress to athletes, postpartum mothers, and those simply seeking preventative wellness.

Even clients who come in ‘just to relax’ often notice reduced puffiness, improved circulation, better digestion, and a lighter, more energized feeling afterward.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

The greatest benefit I’ve personally experienced and that clients can see with regular lymphatic drainage is a noticeable shift in how the body feels overall.
With consistent sessions, there is a visible decrease in inflammation and fluid retention, improved circulation, and a lighter, less congested feeling in the body. Clients often describe feeling less puffy, less bloated, and more comfortable in their own skin.

Beyond the physical results, one of the most powerful benefits is nervous system regulation. Regular lymphatic work promotes deep relaxation, which allows the body to shift out of stress mode. As a result, clients can see and experience better sleep, improved digestion, and a renewed sense of energy.
It’s not just about sculpting or depuffing — it’s about helping the body function more efficiently while feeling calmer, lighter, and more balanced.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

A common misconception is that lymphatic drainage is just a trendy sculpting massage that gives short-term results. In reality, it’s a very gentle, intentional technique that works with the lymphatic system — which plays a major role in immunity, inflammation control, and fluid balance, as long as it’s getting done consistently and regularly. While the visible slimming effect is a benefit, the deeper value is how it supports overall wellness and nervous system regulation.

Galina Korovnik, Belladona’s Massage

My Take:

Belladona’s Massage has become synonymous with luxury and excellence in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene. Galina, the founder and face of this iconic mobile massage empire, is devoted to providing not only a luxury experience in the comfort of her clients’ own homes but also to utilizing all the body work tools possible to keep her clients functioning at their best. From moguls and athletes to entrepreneurs, busy parents, and patients post-surgery, she keeps our area’s best at their best. She was recently named as a Top 5 Brazilian Lymphatic Specialist by Josie Rushing.

You can connect with Galina at @belladonas.massage and book an in-home massage with her or her team in Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, and even Laguna Beach!

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Galina Korovnik)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

I’ve been a bodyworker for the past 17 years and been a licensed massage therapist for 15 years. I specialize in customized deep tissue work while incorporating muscle scraping and cupping into my sessions. I have always loved anatomy and the muscular system, but because our bodies are so complex I wanted to learn more of our bodies systems in depth and that’s where I was drawn into lymphatic drainage work.

2. What differentiates your practice?

My Brazilian lymphatic drainage process is very thorough and targets not only the lymphatic system but also the fascia, nervous system, and circulatory system from the comfort of your own home.

3. Can you describe your typical lymphatic drainage client?

My typical lymphatic drainage client is someone who travels a lot and has excess fluid retention, someone who is getting married and looking to debloat and help aid in detoxification before their big day, it’s someone who is attending an event and wants their body contoured.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

The biggest benefit I see in my clients who get lymphatic drainage work consistently is less fluid retention, decrease in bloating and puffiness, helps with poor circulation, and a noticeable change balancing their nervous system.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

I believe the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage is that it’s not for everybody. Every body can benefit from lymphatic drainage because we all have a lymphatic sysyem. It is so important to have a healthy and balanced lymphatic system. Lymphatic drainage is so important because our bodies contain about 50% more lymphatic fluid than our blood. Our circulatory system has its own pump which helps aid with the blood flow but our lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump so we have to make sure if we notice our lymphatic system struggling that we start working on our end to help improve our system.

Kaylynne Wilbur, The Flow Space

My Take:

Kaylynne Wilbur is a supremely talented practitioner. She brings a robust background in massage therapy and knowledge of the body to her Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage sessions. Her regulars know what I mean when I say that she has the unique ability to discern what your body needs and address it. In my recent 90-minute session. Kaylynne used several modalities to work my entire body, including my face and scalp. I left feeling immediately lighter and sculpted. I recommend Kaylynne with every fiber of my being.
Connect with Kaylynne on Instagram at @the_flow.space and book your next session at theflowspace.org

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Kaylynne Wilbur)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

I first learned about lymphatic drainage in massage school and immediately understood how powerful it can be for overall health — especially reducing inflammation and helping the body heal. But the traditional style we were taught wasn’t for me… it was extremely slow and very light. NOT my speed.

When I discovered the Brazilian technique, I was like “that’s it!”. The pressure is much deeper, the results are more immediate, and the pace feels so much more aligned with my style as a practitioner. I love that I can help clients both feel and see a difference right away — that’s what made me fall in love with this modality.

2. What differentiates your practice?

What really differentiates my practice is that I’m not just trained in Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage — I’m also a licensed massage therapist with 10 years of hands-on experience. Not everyone offering this technique in our area has that background.

Because I’ve spent so much time working with bodies, I’ve developed a trained hand — I can feel what’s happening in the tissues, adapt pressure intuitively, and create results that are both therapeutic and aesthetic. It’s a much more informed approach, and my clients can feel the difference.

3. Can you describe your typical client?

My typical lymphatic drainage client is someone who truly values their health and is ready to invest in it. Lymphatic work isn’t a one-and-done service — consistency is key for real change. The people I work with understand that supporting their lymphatic system can help them feel better, heal quicker, and function at a higher level every day.

Of course, the aesthetic benefits — the snatched waist, reduced bloating, better skin — are amazing… but those are really just a bonus to the deeper transformation that’s happening inside the body.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular treatment?

For me personally, the biggest benefit of regular lymphatic drainage is how much relief I get in my legs. I tend to hold water there — they feel heavy and achy — and monthly sessions make a dramatic difference. I also notice I don’t get sick as often – our lymphatic system is our first line of defense for our immune health.

For my clients, the benefits are wide-ranging: more energy, getting sick less often, reduced bloating and water retention, smoother digestion, improved skin, and an overall feeling of better health and balance in their bodies. Many love the aesthetic perks too — but the internal benefits are what keep them coming back consistently.

5. What is the biggest misconception about body sculpting and lymphatic drainage?

The biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage is that it’s only for aesthetics — a quick debloat before a big event. While the slimming and sculpting are definitely visible, they’re just a tiny part of the real benefits.

The lymphatic system is truly the body’s filter system — it removes bacteria, viruses, toxins, allergens, excess fluid, and anything the body doesn’t need. When that system gets sluggish, we feel it: bloating, low immunity, inflammation, fatigue. Lymphatic drainage massage helps keep the lymphatic system moving so the body can function efficiently and feel its best from the inside out.

Katie Roberts, Raw Beauty

My Take:

KATIE IS BACK!!! She brought Raw Beauty to her own space, and it is as sweet and beautiful as she is. We all know she is the queen of all things skin, but I recently experienced her lymphatic drainage massage, and I was NOT disappointed. I even added on a dermaplane treatment, so I left feeling lighter and fuzz-free!

Katie uses the Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage Massage method to flush out toxins and excess fluids, combat inflammation, improve circulation, and reduce bloating. 90 minutes with Katie is valuable on its own, but her lymphatic session provides the health and aesthetic results we all want.

Connect with katie at @rawbeautycda and book your session at rawbeautycda.com

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Katie Roberts)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage

My journey into lymphatic drainage started early in my esthetics career with gua sha facials. I was fascinated by how gentle techniques could create such noticeable changes, and that curiosity led me to train with Wildling Beauty, where I really fell in love with the practice. From there, I kept wanting to learn more — how the lymphatic system works, how it supports the skin, and how intentional touch can make such a difference. That path eventually led me to advanced, hands-on training in both facial and full-body lymphatic drainage with Rebecca Faria (Detox by Rebecca) in Beverly Hills. Since then, I’ve been deeply committed to continuing my education and bringing thoughtful, results-driven lymphatic work into every treatment I offer.

2. What differentiates your practice?

Honestly, what differentiates my practice is me. There are a lot of people offering this type of work now, but I truly believe lymphatic care works best when there’s a real level of trust between the practitioner and the client. I show up as my authentic self and treat every client the way I’d want my mom, sister, or best friend to be treated. I’m always honest, I’ll never sell you something I don’t believe you need, and I genuinely care about what’s best for you. I try to be fully present during each session, really listen, and create a space where clients feel safe, supported, and empowered to understand the healing power of their lymphatic system.

3. Can you describe your typical lymphatic drainage client?

My lymphatic drainage clients really span a wide range. I work with people who are in remission after cancer, clients recovering from surgeries like breast augmentation, explant, or reconstruction, and others who are drawn to a more holistic approach to aging and overall wellness. I also see clients who come in feeling a little skeptical at first, often after hearing about it from a friend, and are simply curious to experience it for themselves. While everyone’s reason for coming in is different, the common thread I see is a belief in the body’s ability to heal and function better when it’s properly supported. My role is to help guide and support that process in a way that feels safe, informed, and empowering.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

The greatest benefit I see, both in myself and in my clients, is that lymphatic drainage supports healing far beyond what you can see on the surface. While the visible results can be amazing, the real power is in how it helps the body function better from the inside out. When lymphatic work is combined with supportive movement, nourishing food, and intentional breathwork, clients often feel lighter, more balanced, and more in tune with their bodies. Over time, you don’t just see the changes, you genuinely feel them. It’s about helping the body reach a healthier, more supported state, and trusting in its natural ability to do the rest.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

Honestly, the biggest misconception is that lymphatic drainage is a one-and-done kind of thing, or that you can keep doing everything the same and still expect big results. That’s just not really how it works. A simple analogy is to compare it to going to the gym. You can’t work out once and expect your body to change. Consistency is what matters. Lymphatic work is the same way. When it becomes part of your routine and is supported by healthy habits, that’s when you really start to notice the difference.

Kimber London, Runway Salon + Head Spa

My Take:

It doesn’t take much interaction with Kimber to confirm both their passion for and extensive expertise in supporting the body in both healing and longevity. Kimber’s approach is uniquely holistic and encompasses support for the lymphatic system, along with the fascia, tissue health, circulation, and mobility. I left feeling lighter, but I was most impressed and pleasantly surprised when my body moved more effortlessly than before our session. We were even able to incorporate cupping!

Kimber’s beautiful massage practice is based at Runway Salon + Head Spa in Coeur d’Alene. You can connect with Kimber at @massage_by_kimber and explore her offerings and book your massage at http://www.runwaysaloncda.com/massage.

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Kimber London)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

Lymphatic drainage began to really interest me as I deepened my study of anatomy and the body’s detoxification and immune systems. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in fluid balance, waste removal, and immune defense by transporting lymph — a fluid rich in white blood cells — throughout the body. Unlike the cardiovascular system, it doesn’t have a pump like the heart, so it relies heavily on movement and manual stimulation to circulate.

Once I understood how important lymphatic flow is for reducing inflammation and supporting healing, it became a natural extension of my work. Many of my clients benefit from this type of treatment, whether they’re recovering from surgery, experiencing fluid retention, or simply looking to support their overall wellness and longevity.

2. What differentiates your practice?

A multi-modal approach defines the work. Training in Thai massage, fascia-focused therapy, lymphatic drainage, and complementary modalities like cupping allows treatments to address circulation, mobility, and tissue health simultaneously rather than relying on a single technique.

Particular emphasis is placed on fascia — the connective tissue network that surrounds and interweaves with muscles, nerves, and organs. Modern research shows fascia plays an essential role in mobility, circulation, and nervous system signaling. When fascial restrictions are released, clients often experience improvements not only in movement but also in overall well-being.

Sessions follow a strategic structure designed to support the body’s natural drainage pathways. Work typically begins in the lower body to help create flow before addressing the upper body. While there is a clear framework, each session evolves based on the client’s needs. Techniques such as cupping, lymphatic brushing, and targeted lymphatic work are incorporated to encourage circulation, tissue repair, and healthy lymphatic movement — with the ultimate goal of improving recovery, mobility, and long-term wellness.

3. Can you describe your typical lymphatic drainage client?

Interest in lymphatic drainage has grown significantly over the past decade, particularly as wellness and post-surgical recovery protocols have become more widely discussed.

Many of my clients are either preparing for or recovering from surgery and benefit from gentle techniques that help reduce swelling and support healing. Others come in for inflammation, fluid retention, or immune support. I also see many clients who are focused on preventative wellness and longevity.

In sessions, I focus on the body’s primary lymphatic drainage areas — including the neck, armpits, abdomen, and groin — to encourage the natural movement of lymph and reduce congestion.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

The biggest benefit I see is improved overall balance in the body. When lymphatic flow improves, clients often experience reduced swelling, better mobility, and increased energy.

From a physiological standpoint, lymphatic stimulation helps move excess fluid, metabolic waste, and inflammatory byproducts out of tissues and back toward circulation and filtration through lymph nodes. Because the technique is gentle, it also tends to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing the body to shift into a “rest and repair” state where healing is optimized.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

A common misconception is that lymphatic drainage can only happen during a specific lymphatic massage. While manual lymphatic drainage is a specialized technique, most forms of massage influence lymphatic movement because the lymphatic vessels sit just beneath the skin.

Another misconception is about pressure. Many people assume deeper pressure is more effective, but lymphatic vessels respond best to very light, rhythmic touch. That’s why effective lymphatic work is often much gentler than people expect.

Makayla Mierke, Hourglass Body Sculpting

My Take:

I’d be skeptical of this method and the claims that it gets significant results without surgery if I didn’t understand the science, see it with my own eyes, and feel the changes in my own body.

Makayla performs non-invasive body sculpting and skin tightening. This differs from lymphatic drainage massage in that it does not exclusively work with the lymphatic system but also targets fat cells for long-term body contouring. Nevertheless, I could not resist the opportunity to shed light on this powerhouse and her cutting-edge practice in Sandpoint.

Makayla uses a wide variety of tools to customize each session to support your body and reach your individual goals. She used three tools on my abdomen.

1. Laser Lipo Paddles use heat to penetrate fat and cause it to liquify.

2. Cavitation uses low frequency sound waves to disturb fat cells, causing them to release their fluids.

3. Radio Frequency Skin Tightening stimulates the production of new collagen to support skin elasticity and keep everything tight like we want it!

The experience was painless, efficient, and I loved chatting with Makayla! I saw changes in my stomach immediately, with full sculpting results in 3-6 days. The collagen production continued to improve and tighten for a few weeks. Most clients reach their goals in just 3 sessions.

Connect with Makayla on Instagram at @hourglassbodysculptingllc and visit hourglassbodysculptingllc.com to book your session and get sculpted without going under the knife!

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Makayla Mierke)

1. How did you get into body sculpting?

I discovered body sculpting when I tried it for myself and was amazed by both the technology and the results. It also showed me an incredible opportunity to help others feel confident and achieve their goals, which inspired me to make it my career.

2. What differentiates your practice from traditional lymphatic drainage?

This isn’t just lymphatic drainage — my practice focuses on permanent fat loss, skin tightening, and body contouring. What sets me apart is my personalized technique and commitment to achieving cutting-edge results for every client.

3. Can you describe your typical client?

I don’t have a “typical” client. I work with women of all ages and body types, tailoring each treatment to their individual goals.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular treatment?

For me, the greatest benefit is helping women feel confident and happy as they reach their goals. For my clients, it’s seeing the real, visible results we achieve together.

5. What is the biggest misconception about body sculpting and lymphatic drainage?

The biggest misconception is that body sculpting doesn’t work. It absolutely does — the key is where it’s done and the technique used. With the right approach, clients can see real, lasting results

Sara McDrummond, Lavage Renewal

My Take:

I leveled up my lymphatic game with Electro Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) by Sara McDrummond at Lavage Renewal. I had read about ELT but only thought of it in that aspirational, dreamy, “one day when I travel for cutting-edge services” kind of way. I didn’t think it would come to my sweet little town in Idaho, but it is here folks!

Think of ELT as lymphatic drainage PRO MAX. It is gentle and non-invasive like conventional manual and vacuum lymphatic drainage techniques, but it differs in that it uses high/low frequency, electro-sound waves, and light energy to stimulate and detoxify the lymphatic system. It helps break up congestion, encourages lymph flow, and supports the body’s natural detox processes. This technique is able to impact the lymphatic system at a deeper level and some say that one session is as effective as several manual lymphatic drainage sessions.

For this service, you undress and lay on a massage table as you would for a massage, and Sara moves a hand-held device over the body and scalp. The session was fast and used no oil, so I left feeling lighter and energized without that oily post-massage look.

Sara is also a certified colon hydrotherapist! I highly recommend boosting your detox results by booking back-to-back ELT and colon hydrotherapy sessions.

Connect with Sara on Instagram at @renew_with_sara and book your ELT or colon hydrotherapy session at lavagerenewalcolonics.com

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Sarah McDrummond)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

My path into lymphatic drainage evolved naturally through my work in gut health and detoxification. I repeatedly worked with clients who were deeply committed to their wellness, yet continued to experience inflammation, fatigue, and a sense of feeling “stuck.” During my colon hydrotherapy training in San Diego, I was first introduced to Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT). While I didn’t pursue certification at that time, continued work with clients showing clear signs of lymphatic stagnation highlighted just how essential healthy lymph flow is to overall wellbeing. Becoming certified and offering ELT ultimately felt like a natural and necessary expansion of my practice.

2. What differentiates electro lymphatic therapy from traditional forms of lymphatic drainage massage?

While traditional lymphatic drainage relies on manual techniques, high-frequency ELT by Inspiration uses radiant light energy and targeted frequencies to stimulate the lymphatic system. This approach supports healthy cellular separation, allowing cells to move more freely and improving the uptake of oxygen and nutrients. As lymphatic flow increases, stagnant fluid and cellular waste are guided toward the colon for natural elimination, helping reduce inflammation and discomfort. By incorporating both high and low frequencies, ELT encourages rhythmic lymph movement throughout the body, providing consistent and deeper stimulation without the need for physical pressure. Because it stimulates the lymphatic system continuously and uniformly, a single session may offer effects similar to multiple manual lymphatic sessions performed over time, which can support more efficient and noticeable outcomes.

3. Can you describe your typical electro lymphatic therapy client?

My typical client is someone dealing with pain, inflammation, digestive concerns, hormonal imbalances, immune challenges, or chronic stress. While there are many benefits to ELT, these are often the primary concerns that bring clients in. Most of my clients are health-conscious and seeking alternative therapies to support systemic wellness. Some begin with colon hydrotherapy, others with ELT, and many choose to combine both as part of a proactive approach to their health. I also work with clients seeking gentle support alongside detox programs or daily wellness routines that promote balance and overall vitality.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular electro lymphatic therapy?

The most significant benefit is improved flow—physically and energetically. Clients often report feeling lighter, less swollen, clearer mentally, and more energized. Some have experienced immediate relief, leaving a session pain-free or with reduced congestion. I’ve even had clients come in feeling under the weather and leave feeling noticeably better. Over time, regular sessions can support immune function, reduce inflammation, and help the body eliminate waste more efficiently. Personally and professionally, I see ELT as a powerful reset that allows the body to function as it’s designed.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage and electro lymphatic therapy? The biggest misconception is that it’s only about swelling or cosmetic results. While those can be benefits, lymphatic drainage is foundational to detoxification, immune health, and overall vitality. Another misconception is that it has to be aggressive to be effective—when in reality, the lymphatic system responds best to gentle, rhythmic stimulation.

Sophia Smith Martinez, Aesthetic Coterie

My Take:

Sophia Smith Martinez of Aesthetic Coterie is not only a master of her trade but also a wealth of knowledge, a calming presence, and always a step ahead of the crowd. She emphasizes the need for nervous system regulation and uses her skills as a Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage practitioner to help her clients achieve what once seemed out of reach: vitality, sculpting, and nervous system regulation in one luxurious treatment! She currently practices in both Spokane and Seattle. Her Spokane space in the iconic Steam Plant building is a gorgeous wellness retreat. I especially love that you can book a sauna session along with your treatment!

Connect with Sophia and her practice on Instagram at @aesthetic.coterie and book your session at aestheticcoterie.com

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Sophia Smith Martinez)

1. How did you get into lymphatic drainage?

I first learned about lymphatic drainage ten years ago when I attended Aveda Institute. At the time, it felt like a quiet, almost hidden modality — something not widely talked about, yet incredibly powerful. As I continued working in aesthetics, I kept coming back to the lymphatic system as the missing link between true healing and visible results. What began as curiosity evolved into deeper trainings and ultimately became the foundation of my practice. Today, lymphatic care isn’t just something I offer — it’s the lens through which I approach the body as a whole.

2. What differentiates your practice?

My practice blends clinical precision with luxury-level care. Every session is intentional, customized, and rooted in anatomy — not trends. I focus on true manual lymphatic techniques, not surface-level massage, while integrating nervous system regulation, postural awareness, and lifestyle education. I also place a strong emphasis on supporting women through hormonal shifts, especially menopause — addressing inflammation, fluid retention, fatigue, and metabolic changes that so many women are told to simply “accept.” Clients aren’t rushed in and out; they’re cared for in a calm, refined environment where results and restoration coexist.

3. Can you describe your typical lymphatic drainage client?

My clients are primarily women ages 40–60 — busy career professionals, mothers, and deeply health-conscious women who are finally prioritizing themselves. They often come in feeling inflamed, depleted, or disconnected from their bodies and are looking for intelligent, science-backed care. They value subtle luxury, long-term wellness, and practitioners who understand the physiology behind what they’re doing.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

Consistency changes everything. Regular lymphatic drainage improves circulation, reduces inflammation, supports immune function, and creates a visible lightness in both the face and body. But beyond the physical benefits, I see profound shifts in nervous system regulation — clients sleep better, feel clearer mentally, and experience a renewed sense of connection to themselves. Personally, it’s been foundational in managing stress, maintaining energy, and staying grounded while building and leading my business.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

That it’s just a de-puffing massage. True lymphatic work is clinical, purposeful, and deeply restorative. It’s not about pressure — it’s about precision. When done correctly, it supports detoxification, immunity, hormone balance, and overall vitality. It’s quiet work with powerful outcomes — and it deserves to be viewed as essential care, not a luxury add-on.

Sydney Louka, Sportive Studio

My Take:

A visit to Sydney Louka’s Sportive Studio is really essential care dressed up as a luxury. The dark, delicious decor, the top shelf products, and the unparalleled massage may feel like a mere indulgence, but a session with Sydney is so much more.

I left my recent detox massage feeling relaxed and spoiled, but my body gained more than 90 minutes of relaxation. I felt immediately lighter, my anxiety decreased, my digestion improved, some skin issues I’ve been battling disappeared within a couple of days, and I saw an immediate decrease in the puffiness of my legs and abdomen. Sydney uses the Brazilian Lymphatic Drainage method, so you’ll notice immediate health AND aesthetic benefits.

She expertly assessed my body and used a combination of hands-on sculpting, vacuum therapy, and an assortment of advanced tools to give my body and my lymphatic system what it needed.

To learn more about Sportive and Sydney and to book your luxury session, visit sportivestudio.com

Connect with Sydney and her team on Instagram at @sportive.studio

From the Source: (These answers were provided by Sydney Louka)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

I got into lymphatic drainage because I wanted results that actually mattered and not just something that felt nice for an hour. As a Master Aesthetician I was already deep in aesthetics, but lymphatic work stood out because it supports the body at a systems level. Once I experienced the Brazilian method and felt the difference in my own body (less inflammation, better recovery, more definition), I knew this wasn’t optional work. I made the decision to fly to Beverly Hills to be trained and certified with the very best in the business in 2022 and it quickly became a passion of mine to share this with everyone. What started in my one room studio in Spokane has since transformed into a full storefront with its own reformer Pilates studio in our beautiful CDA location, Sportive.

2. What differentiates your practice?

Our intentional and tailored approach. At Sportive, we don’t do cookie-cutter sessions. We adjust every treatment to the body in front of us that day. There’s no routine we’re running through and no shortcuts being taken when it comes to your body. Brazilian lymphatic drainage is hands-on, physical work that takes real anatomical knowledge which means your practitioner is actively working the entire session. The level of work and care that goes into each treatment is not light, surface-level bodywork. We’re reading tissue, fluid movement, and nervous system cues to give your body exactly what it needs.

3. Can you describe your typical lymphatic drainage client?

She’s high-functioning and holds herself to a high standard. She works out, eats well, and takes care of herself but still deals with bloating, inflammation, hormonal shifts, stress or stagnation. She values expertise and treatments that are actually effective. An hour of fluff doesn’t cut it for her. She doesn’t want to be talked into trends but wants to understand why something works and that’s why she comes to us.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

Regulation. Bodies start responding better to workouts, to food, to stress. Swelling decreases, digestion improves, skin looks clearer, and there’s a noticeable sense of lightness both physically and mentally. It’s not just about looking less puffy. It’s about the body functioning the way it was designed to.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

That it’s just a spa add-on or purely aesthetic. In reality, it’s foundational work. When your lymphatic system isn’t moving well, everything backs up- fatigue, inflammation, hormones, recovery. Lymphatic drainage has become a trend but honestly, it’s necessary maintenance for every body!

Tyese Chumov, Woven Body Massage

My Take:

I went into my vacuum lymphatic drainage massage with Tyese Chumov, of Woven Body Massage, feeling like garbage. I was in the thick of hormone replacement therapy and experiencing a gut flare (which is unfortunately a delicate dance I’m still dancing). I felt better almost immediately upon entering her beautiful space. When she inquired about any areas of concern, I explained some of my current challenges that were causing me to feel inflamed and heavy. She immediately turned on the red light to boost my results, and I just melted into the warm massage table as she used both manual and vacuum methods to help my body to cleanse. I left feeling better and more energized than I’d felt in weeks. In fact, I had been kind of dreading an even that evening because my energy was so low. After my session with Tyese, my gut and nervous system felt more at ease, and I was able to enjoy a night out!

Tyese uses a unique combination of traditional manual lymphatic drainage with vacuum lymphatic work. If you experience gut issues or nervous system dysregulation, Tyese is your girl. She focuses on the abdomen in a way that gently encourages proper function while inviting rest.

You can your lymphatic session with Tyese at woven-body.square.site and connect with her at @woven_body_massage

From the Source: (these answers are provided by Tyese Chumov)

1. Tell me a bit about how you got into lymphatic drainage.

I was drawn to lymphatic drainage while looking for gentle ways to help the body heal more efficiently. In my structural and fascia-based massage work, I saw how fluid stagnation and inflammation contributed to pain and tension patterns. When I trained in vacuum lymphatic drainage and began integrating it into sessions, I noticed quicker reductions in swelling, improved tissue mobility, and faster recovery, which encouraged me to focus more deeply on this modality.

2. What differentiates your practice?

I combine traditional lymphatic principles with vacuum-assisted lymphatic drainage and structural bodywork. Manual lymphatic techniques focus on guiding fluid through gentle hand movements, while vacuum lymphatic drainage uses controlled suction to help stimulate circulation, lift tissue, and encourage fluid movement more broadly through the lymph pathways. I also assess how lymph flow connects to fascia, posture, and nervous system regulation, allowing sessions to be customized for each client’s body and goals.

3. Can you describe your typical lymphatic drainage client?

Most of my lymphatic clients are women looking to reduce swelling, inflammation, or have just recently had a surgery, whether a tummy tuck/breast lift, loose skin surgery, or lymphedema. They typically value a gentle, therapeutic approach that supports long-term healing rather than quick fixes.

4. What is the greatest benefit you see in yourself and your clients from regular lymphatic drainage?

The biggest benefit is reduced inflammation and increasing the flow and circulation in the body. Clients often feel lighter, experience less swelling, and notice improved mobility and recovery. Vacuum lymphatic drainage can also help improve tissue hydration and fascial glide, which supports overall structural comfort and enhances the effectiveness of other therapeutic massage work.

5. What do you think is the biggest misconception about lymphatic drainage?

A common misconception is that lymphatic drainage is only a relaxation or “detox” service. While it is very calming, it is also a therapeutic technique that supports immune function, tissue healing, and fluid regulation. Another misconception is that deeper pressure is more effective, when in reality the lymphatic system responds best to gentle, precise stimulation.

Conclusion

Lymphatic Drainage Massage has been a staple in my routine for years, and I don’t think that will change anytime soon. Luckily, there are plenty of talented, passionate, and highly experienced professionals in our area who are ready to give you and your lymphatic system some love.

I hope these recommendations are helpful! I can’t wait to hear your experiences.

Let me know if there are any other Lymphatic Drainage professionals I should try out or if there are other topics you want me to cover.

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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Modeling and Body Image

November 6th, 2025
Let’s talk about the unspoken aspects of modeling. I’m talking about the internal battle so many fight in silence. This is a beautiful, expressive, creative, empowering pursuit, but like anything worth doing, it can take a toll on your mental health if you’re not proactive and aware of all of the parts of you that are at play at every show and every shoot.

The mental challenge that comes with modeling stems from the fact that you are bravely opening yourself up to criticism by putting yourself out there publicly. Further, you face the specific challenges that come with modeling. When your appearance, your face, and your body are the tools of your trade, it’s hard not to take feedback personally and allow it to seep into your self-worth and negatively affect your mental health. I struggled with this for DECADES.

BUT we live in the most beautiful era. In 2025, we benefit from a pendulum that is hovering closer to the middle than ever before. After years of living in a “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels” era, we now find ourselves in a new era. On the heels of the body acceptance and health at every size movements, we have the opportunity to foster healthier and more diverse body images. We can create new, healthier standards. With social media, we all have a platform, and local shoots have massive reach. The timing has never been better, and the resources have never been more abundant.

I challenge you to do the work internally to love and value yourself enough to care for your bodies properly. Once your body is cared for, you’ll be empowered to relate to your body in a healthy way. I suggest that, instead of reciting affirmations and forcing yourself to love your body 100% of the time, allow yourself to think about your bodies a little less. I’m right here on this journey with you.

I struggled for decades with body image issues and disordered eating. I substituted the standards and advice of others, along with a very critical internal voice, for the voice of my own body, and I paid the price with major chronic health issues. I implore you to learn from mistakes and avoid these pitfalls.

Through years of battling myself and finally learning to accept my body at different sizes, I’ve learned that my size really matters a lot less than I thought. While modeling is heavy on appearances and aesthetics, I learned that my body’s size is far less important to modeling when I’m in the right places and working with the right people. The way I feel about my body and it’s ability to live up to arbitrary standards rarely impacts my ability to help a local boutique sell its clothes.

I chatted with TONS of local brand owners and photographers to get their perspective, and my hunch was confirmed. When I asked them what they look for in models, their answers focused on attitude, confidence, that inside-out glow, creativity, but not so much on waistline, visible abs, or a thigh gap.

This is easier said than done, but I implore you to stop wasting time worrying about your body and to shift your focus to respecting yourself and your body enough to properly care for it. When you listen to its cues, move it regularly and rest it regularly, you’ll enter your next show or shoot or social media post from a grounded place. Receiving constructive or not so constructive feedback from a grounded place empowers you to take it at face value and move on. Maybe that job or that brand isn’t for you.

At the end of the day, most modeling jobs or collaborations are about selling something, and there isn’t just one body type or one look that can do that. In fact, brands sell more when their models represent realistic bodies and real people.

I remember being on shoots where I felt very little confidence and extremely conscious of my body, but when I shifted the focus to the beautiful, carefully curated clothing and the entrepreneur who poured her full self into this brand, I realized that I was here to hype her and not to take perfect pictures. This sounds like an oversimplification, but my body and I are a pretty small part of most things in life.

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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The Sober Sister who Buys Coors Light by the Case

October 25th, 2023
People often ask me if I’m bothered by Blake drinking, given that I’ve been sober for almost 2 years now. The short answer is NOT AT ALL. The longer answer is that I believe that Blake has beautiful wisdom and doesn’t need me micromanaging his drinking or any part of his life.

My answer may have surprised you, and I think it applies to more than just the sober, the sober-curious, and those who love them.

I should begin by noting that Blake is a grown, independent man. I have no more control over him and his habits than I do over the US economy. I’m his wife, his partner, his support, and his equal, but I am not his mother. I have no desire to control or manipulate him as if he were a dog or a child (and honestly, we shouldn’t be treating children that way either). I will hold back from a rant on this topic, but I firmly believe that the normalization of a derisive, controlling tension between spouses is incredibly harmful and should be stopped.

Back to me ;). My full journey is a topic for another post on another day, but suffice it to say, I stopped drinking almost 2 years ago to support my gut and hormone healing journey, and I am a better version of myself now that alcohol isn’t part of my life. I can’t say I was an alcoholic, but I also can’t say I had a healthy relationship with alcohol.

I’m no teetotaler, I don’t think drinking is inherently wrong or inherently unhealthy, and I can’t say I’ll never drink again. It merely doesn’t serve me currently, and I don’t foresee a net gain from adding it back in right now. I’ve talked at length about my disordered eating journey, and I can’t overlook the obvious connection between my restrictive relationship with food and my frenetic relationship with alcohol and regular blackouts.

In stark contrast lies Blake and his healthy relationship with both food and alcohol. He approaches booze with balance, listens to his body, and indulges responsibly. This is a wild concept for someone like me, but he is able to drink regularly and almost never to excess.

Just as I’ve been so careful never to impose my dietary restrictions (once self-imposed, now medically-imposed) on Blake, I refuse to impose my alcohol restriction on him. I’d hate to get in the way of his connection with his body’s cues, his neutral relationship with indulgences (whether that be Coor’s Light or Reese’s), or his ability to enjoy pleasure in moderation.

For all of these reasons, and so many more, I gladly keep multiple refrigerators stocked with Coors Light and our snack cabinet full of his favorite sweets. Life is about balance and moderation and diversity of thought and habit and preference. As I learn to be a better partner, I have leaned into the idea that what is best for me isn’t always what is best for Blake, and I can live with that duality.

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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Why a Night at the Motocross Track Trumps Ladies Night

October 2nd, 2023
The Feminists will come for me on this one, but right now a night at the motocross track with my husband and his friends feels superior to ladies night for me. As an avowed, card carrying, girls’ girl, I never thought I’d say this. I give a full-body YES to tagging along with my husband any chance I get.

I’ve established that my husband and I have distinctly different interests and hobbies. I am an indoor cat and will probably never be seen in the back country or at the top of a mountain or on an actual dirt bike. I never begrudge him his days at the track without me, long weekends skiing, or late nights in the garage. I think that our independent time and separate hobbies allow us to complement and truly appreciate each other. However, I will absolutely go out of my way to watch him race or watch local races with him and his friends.

Why? Because there’s something magic about nights at the track, squeezed between him and his friends on the bleachers, asking questions and covering my ears. There’s something magic about holding my breath as I watch him race and then running to hug him and sit while he dissects every turn and how he’ll do better next time. There’s something magic about sitting on the back of his pickup with a hot tea, getting to know his friends.

It’s these moments that keep us connected. They make my world a little bigger and signal to him that, while I may never fully understand his world, I love him enough to want to explore it with him.

Don’t get me wrong. I still get all tingly when I think about a spa day, a shopping trip, a long walk, or a night dressed up for deep conversation with my girls. BUT for me, right now, as I care for our fledgling marriage, an opportunity to visit Blake’s world will trump a ladies’ night. That will likely change, but in this stage, I’m going to throw on jeans and one of his giant hoodies and head to the track every chance I get.

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer

I’d love to continue this conversation! Find my on Instagram @bailey_bowerman
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What I Wish I Could Tell My Teenage Self

September 11th, 2023
I wish I could tell my teenage self to brush off that little voice in her head insisting that she’d be happy, successful, safe, and accepted if she was thinner, if she needed less, if she took up less space.

I’d tell her that the voice was lying to her, that this voice would get stronger and stronger and would steal relationships, joy, energy, spontaneity, and peace. I’d tell her that the fear and anxiety and lack of control only get worse as you get thinner.

As I sit here, in my thirties, struggling to undo the damage from decades of severely restrictive eating, self loathing, and perfectionism, I wish I could tell her that food is not the enemy, her body is not the enemy, and that mean little voice is not her own.

I may not be able to go back and impart the benefit of hindsight to my younger self, but I can extend love and care to my current self and my inner child. I can forgive myself for falling prey to lies. I can love myself as I stumble along my healing journey. I can make myself vulnerable by sharing my story so that others may avoid my same fate.

What lies did you once believe? What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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Food Freedom and Restriction in Healing

August 28th, 2023
If I’ve learned anything over the past couple of years, it’s that healing is a circuitous process. Often, the solution to one problem causes other problems, all with seemingly endless and increasingly burdensome possible solutions.

I worked so hard to gain weight, accept my new body, and celebrate food freedom that I was confused and disappointed that the energy and strength I expected with a sufficiently-fueled body didn’t come.

Months of unanswered questions and fruitless pregnancy attempts ended with discovering that I had some severe gut, immune, and hormone issues that required a seriously restrictive diet and intense treatment regimen.

The diet used to heal infections that were wreaking havoc on my body left me thinner than I’ve ever been. This lead to more severe hormonal issues. I’m now on a journey to gain weight while continuing to heal my gut.

I don’t always look or feel it, but I am different, maintaining recovery, and making progress everyday. My carefully curated meal plan doesn’t look like the food freedom I aim for, but I make choices based on facts rather than fear, and one day I’ll be healed enough to experience the freedom I seek.

Here are the actions and mindset shifts that are keeping me on track:

✌️I am now motivated by a desire to heal my body, rather than a desire to control my body.

✌️I know exactly what I want and align my actions with those goals.

✌️I check in regularly with healthcare professionals and therapists

✌️I check in with myself and my body before taking any advice or adding any new treatment.

✌️I listen to my body and its cues

✌️I am honest with family and friends about my journey.

✌️I rest without shame.

✌️I remind myself daily (ok…hourly) that my body is resilient and I will rise again.

A couple years ago, I learned to love a bigger body. Then, I learned to love a smaller body, because it was still mine, and it fought to get me where I need to go. Now, I am loving my body as it grows again

Especially in the alternative, natural healing space, there are plenty of experts ready to tell you about all of the “bad” foods you need to eliminate to heal. They operate in and propagate fear, making food out to be more enemy than ally.

After overcoming disordered eating, I refuse to accept that I will have to eat a restrictive diet for the rest of my life. It’s been a slow, painful process, but I’m adding diversity back into my diet after being restricted for health reasons for almost a full year! I couldn’t do it without the help of @nutrition_dynamic and @kristensmithdpt

I’m re-learning how to relate to different foods and how to help my body do its job.

In a world that full of voices giving us rules and assigning food a moral value, I claim freedom.
⚡️I refuse to cut entire food groups out ever again.
⚡️I refuse to make food decisions based on fear.
⚡️I refuse to be left out of celebrations.

I’m so close to freedom, I can TASTE it!
⚡️I will cook one meal for my husband and me.
⚡️I will savor birthday cake with friends.
⚡️I will make and eat waffles with my kids.
⚡️I will go to the fair and sample fair food.
⚡️I will enjoy dinners out for both the company and the food.

Recovery from disordered eating alongside recovery from chronic gut and hormone issues is a bit of a mind-fuck. I’m still on this journey and far from an expert, but I hope that my thoughts are helpful and encouraging to my fellow fighters.

I’d love to hear how you deal with similar fights!

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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Living as an Ancestor

August 14th, 2023
Everything changed for me when I began living as an ancestor. When I stopped viewing my life as merely mine and as merely affecting me and my contemporaries, change became inevitable, struggle started making sense, and excellence shifted from a maybe to a non-negotiable. When I started living as the ancestor of generations yet to manifest, my entire perspective shifted.

This transformation is akin to the one I experienced when I got married. When I realized that my bullshit was affecting Blake as much as it was affecting me, I decided I could put up with it no longer. The habits that I had once kept so comfortably hidden demanded exposure and attention. It was as if the issues I had once struggled to even acknowledge, were now so clear; the challenges I had tried and failed at overcoming countless times, were now met with new strength and resilience.

Now, I feel called-no. that’s not right. I feel gently lifted, supported, drawn-to level up because my life and my actions have even more weight than I thought.

It’s more than the thought of possible future children. That’s part of it, but we have faced, mourned, and accepted the fact that we may not have the honor of our own children in this life. I may not have the chance to exert the immediate influence of the nuclear family and resulting direct bloodline. Nevertheless, I am an ancestor. My struggles and successes will affect those that come after me, regardless of whether I pass on my genes. The generational traumas I heal feel like less of an unfair burden when I think of the fact that future generations won’t have to bear this burden.

I no longer struggle with feeling that my lot in life is less than fair, especially when I see friends easily conceive while doing all of the things I was told kept me from motherhood. There were times I resented those who used fear to teach me and the years I once viewed as wasted dealing with and healing old traumas instead of forging ahead. No longer.

I know that I am merely one part of a long heritage, and my life will either lighten the burden of future generations or add to it. This knowledge puts my life and my healing journey into perspective. It is necessary. It is not a waste. Fairness is irrelevant. My comfort is irrelevant.

I am not merely Bailey Bowerman. I am a descendant. I am a future ancestor. I am a healer of generational trauma.

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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Why I Stopped Seeking Unconditional Love

June 29th, 2023
Unconditional love is touted as the gold standard. It’s the stuff of fairy tales, wedding speeches, and sermons. We spend way too much time on quests to find this holy grail of love; I’ve stopped seeking it, and I implore you to do the same.

On a certain level, I get it. We all crave safety and security, and we find comfort in the idea that we can live without fear of being left or betrayed by loved ones. It’s this safety that allows us to move out of survival mode and finally get to the beautiful work of self-knowledge. It’s this safety that allows us to be vulnerable and create bigger, better lives than we could on our own.

However, I firmly believe that we can expect unconditional love only from ourselves.
- Can we expect safety and security in certain well-established relationships? ABSOLUTELY.
- Can we lay out standards and expectations for those close to us? ABSOLUTELY.
- Can we commit to sticking with another person through tough times? ABSOLUTELY.
Allow me to present an example. When I married Blake, we committed to one another for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, etc. (actually we wrote our own sappy vows, but you get the point :)). The moment we made that commitment, I felt safer and more secure. I know that Blake is committed to me, and I am committed to him. However, if I were to become abusive or completely shift values and priorities to the point of being or incompatible with him, he should leave me. His love is steady and gracious; he has chosen to stand with me through drama, embarrassment, health crises, and emotional valleys. Nevertheless, his love is not without conditions.

True love, completely void of conditions, cannot and should not be expected from anyone outside of your own body. It is only after I accepted this fact and received the unconditional love I craved from myself that I was able to feel safe, set boundaries, and grow. It is this knowledge that invites me to expect loyalty and affection commensurate with the particular relationship but never to rest on my laurels, “because you’re stuck with me now.” Similarly, I am no longer shocked or hurt when a friend is less than unconditionally loyal, because I know that I am only one of many priorities for most of my friends and family and that I land at varying levels of importance in each of their lives.

I’m ok with this now, because I know that there is one person who knows the worst parts of me, who sees my true weakness, who understands my inherent value, and loves me unconditionally.

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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When Healing isn’t Linear: How to Deal with Health Setbacks

June 19th, 2023
Healing is anything but linear. Whether you’re battling a chronic health issue, mental health, or simply leaning into self-knowledge and trying to level up, you probably know what it’s like to see progress ebb and flow, seemingly without reason.

I know it. I’ve said it a million times. Still, there is a small part of me that feels confused, disappointed, and swindled by the universe when my healing slows or when I experience a setback. Because I have a feeling I’m not alone in this, I decided to share some of the ways I cope with discouragement. Here are 5 actions that help me to weather the proverbial storm and keep myself from acting from a place of discouragement.

Recently, I had to employ these things when a trip to Mexico left me with not only the usual gut issues from international travel but caused a flare in some chronic infections and left me feeling like a shell of a person again. Again, I found myself napping daily (not the luxurious kind, but the kind you can’t resist because you’re tired in your bones and your eyelids keep involuntarily shutting), feeling discouraged, and losing sight of my progress and positive trajectory.

Here is what I did:
- PAUSE. In the past, I might have freaked and started pursuing any and all options for solving my perceived renewed health problem, spending money, time, and energy going down rabbit holes that only sometimes yielded results. Now, I pause when I get discouraging results or start to feel like old symptoms are returning. I allow myself time to assess the situation from a less emotional state and give my body time to perhaps rebound on its own. That may mean taking a day or an afternoon or a few days to simply observe and listen to myself. It is incredibly powerful and hugely important to mental resilience to be able to sit with discomfort and not simply numb or try to fix it so it goes away. Sometimes, all my body needs is a little time and rest to sort out a random issue.
- DOCUMENT. I am sure to document any new feelings, symptoms, data, or provider opinions that indicate an issue. I keep a log of my energy, appetite, water intake, physical activity, and diet, and it is really helpful in making reasonable decisions to drive my health journey.
- FOSTER MENTAL HEALTH. I can’t speak for every instance or every person, but I have found that when my health dips, my mental health often needs a little extra TLC. This means giving myself time alone, writing, resting, meditating, practicing breath work, sitting in gratitude, and spending time in front of my red light panel. Sometimes the extra focus on mental health sorts out my physical health, and sometimes it simply gives me the foundation from which to move forward in strength and wisdom.
- REASSESS HEALTH PROTOCOLS. Once I’ve taken time and given myself the care I know I need for baseline health, I consult my trusted healthcare professionals for insight and work with them to reassess my diet, workout routine, schedule, and supplement protocols. I often find that there are small things I can do to sort out any discomfort. For example, I recently learned that some of my exhaustion, coupled with gut issues was causing a mineral and electrolyte deficiency. My coach and I remedied this by adding extra LMNT packets each day.
- USE AFFIRMATIONS. My favorite affirmations to return to when I’m discouraged by health setbacks are:
  - I am capable and prepared to heal my body.
  - I deserve to live a healthy life.
  - I have power over my body, and I treat it with respect.
  - I am healed, whole, and healthy.
  - I love my body more every day.
  - I am full of radiant health and energy.
  - I love taking care of myself.
  - I love and respect all parts of my body.
  - I deserve to be fit and healthy.
I hope my tips for dealing with health setbacks are helpful to you, and I’d love to hear how you deal with your own health setbacks! Let’s keep the conversation going! Find me on Instagram at @bailey_bowerman !

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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How to Love an Adrenaline Junkie

April 18th, 2023
I write this from bed at 5:04 AM. Blake just left for a snow camping trip (yes, he is voluntarily CAMPING ON SNOW), and I decided that I must collect my thoughts now, while they are fresh.

Loving someone who feels most alive when he is risking his life is not something I was prepared for. It is a unique experience, but I have a feeling I am not alone. I share my experience in hopes that some one feels a little less alone and perhaps benefits from what I’ve learned.

I remember when Blake and I first got engaged, I came to the unsettling realization that I had found something outside of myself that I loved as much as, if not more than myself. While love and partnership came with a newfound safety, I could not escape the vulnerability of knowing that there was someone outside of my body who, if I were to lose him, part of me would die. It was the first time I had something to lose. I am a naturally selfish person. That is not a self-deprecating statement; it’s just the truth. I survived a big family, a competitive academic environment, and a few cut-throat careers as a single woman by putting a lot of focus on myself and my survival. Despite my natural tendencies toward self-preservation, I came to this unsettling realization a bit sooner than I might have, because Blake’s commitment to chasing adrenaline put him at constant risk. I was all too aware of how close death was for the person I had grown to love so much.

A second, closely-following realization was that asking Blake to refrain from the countless dangerous activities he loves so much was out of the question. I absolutely could not keep him safe by stifling him and keeping him close to me. I knew that he wouldn’t be the man I fell in love with if he stopped doing the things he loves. I had to come to terms with the fact that he may die doing the things he loves, but I’d rather that happen than ask him to live a life of quiet desperation.

I vividly remember sitting at the big kitchen table in Blake’s farmhouse in Latah, Washington as he’d passionately recount his latest ski adventure (like a little kid, pacing the entire length of the room, not breathing, talking a mile a minute about the “sick line” he hit). I remember physically listening calmly but internally combusting. Outwardly and consciously I was interested, but everything inside me wished he’d “SHUT UP.” I regularly would completely miss chunks of his stories as I dissociated and left my body. At first, I thought this was yet another example of my selfishness, but after more reflection, I realized that it wasn’t a need for attention or a lack of desire to give him the attention he deserved. Rather, it was a reaction to the fact that the topics he was so excited about caused me to confront my fear of losing him. The stories of adventures that were exciting to him, as he pictured success and felt a rush of adrenaline, were terrifying and painful for me, as I pondered how close I came to losing him on each trip.

A little over three years later, things are quite different. I’ve learned a lot about skiing, touring, the back country, avalanche safety, snow camping, surfing, motocross, super cross, vintage motorcycles, skate boards, and boats. Our relationship has matured a bit, I’ve matured a bit, and I find joy in empowering Blake to succeed in his many hobbies and in hearing all about the many details of each adventure.

There are a lot of things I learned and changed in order to get here, and there are a lot of things I still have to learn and change. In today’s blog, I’m covering the first and toughest one:

A shift in Perspective: Adjusting my Expectations for Blake and how I Relate to him.

I no longer view Blake as merely MY HUSBAND-a possession, someone who owes me all of his time and attention and resources. Instead, I have come to relate to him as a wild, honored guest, and I have the unique pleasure of hosting him when he touches down to earth. I no longer wish he was like my girlfriends’ husbands who play golf, go on cute dates on the weekends, accompany them on trips to the grocery store, and make it to every family function, because I fell in love with a wild, feral Blake. What makes him so wonderful and wild are these things that he loves.

A big part of making my peace with this has been letting go of my ego, my western mindset, and my belief that his life should revolve around me. I had to shed the idea that I should be part of the banner moments in his life, because I never will be. The moments that light me up and that I look forward to are the mundane ones-the dinners at home, the evening walks, the long drives holding hands over the center console. In contrast, the moments that light Blake up are not with me. They are the moments right before sends it (whether it be the start of a race or catching a wave or skiing a first descent).

This doesn’t mean that he doesn’t love and value me. As much as he knows how to exist in the mundane, he chooses to rest there with me. He needs the steady, the boring, the safe to balance out the rest of his life, and I am proud to be an asset to him in that way.

All of this is what is most beautiful about him. This is what makes him such a wonderful partner. His ability to function in the face of adversity is unparalleled. The way his brain works, the elevated level at which he functions daily with little downtime, and the fact that he is able to make very detailed, reasoned decisions very quickly make me feel so lucky to know him and support him. Nothing throws him off; nothing I’ve ever said or thought has scared him. His ability to love is so big. He has the unique ability to see my imperfection, love it, and make me feel safe, all while demanding greatness. I think it is because of the training he’s gone through, because of his regular exposure to high intensity situations. I love those things, and I’m so honored to get to host Blake’s earth-bound life.

Marriage is so much better and bigger and wilder and harder than I expected. It’s not what movies showed me. It’s not what my parents showed me. Loving someone like Blake is such a wild experience. The best way I can put it is to say that Blake is this wild soul that I cannot control, but I look forward to hosting him from time to time.

Does this resonate with any of you fellow lovers of wild souls? I’d love to hear your thoughts! And stay tuned for Part 2 of how I love my adrenaline junkie!

xoxo Your Favorite Late Bloomer
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