We’re all exposed to a vast assortment of environmental toxins every day, so polluted has our planet become. We’re also exposed to a wide variety of endotoxins – waste products from the metabolic processes of our own bodies and the bacteria and other microbes that live within us.

These toxins must be continually removed through veins and lymph vessels. When they can’t be efficiently excreted, the possibility of cancer (among other illnesses) increases.

A 1995 study of 4,700 women found that those who wore bras were at higher risk of breast cancer (Singer, Dressed to Kill). Those who wore bras 24/7 had the highest rate of breast cancer; those who never wore them had the lowest. It may be that the constant pressure a bra puts on the breast limits the flow of toxins that need to be released. The study suggested wearing a bra no more than 12 hours a day.

Boosting Detox with Self-Massage

Self-massage of your breasts is an excellent way to flush fluids from the breast (both venous and intercellular), bring nutrition to the tissues and specifically remove toxins via the lymphatic system. The techniques shown below will also enhance the health and elasticity of the support ligaments, providing you with better breast support.

This simple massage routine can be done by yourself in the privacy of your own home. Although most any gentle massage will be of benefit, these four techniques should be a part of your personal care regimen, something you do at least twice a week.

You may massage bare skin or use some plant-derived oil for extra comfort. If you use oil, avoid mineral-based and scented oils.

4 Steps to Healthier Breasts

Step One: Use your fingers to slowly and gently smooth away from the nipple. Use no more pressure than you would apply to your eyelid. Anything more than this will flatten the lymphatic vessel and stop the flow of toxins and fluids.

Step Two: Gently massage the breast with a kneading-like motion, using lifting and pressing movements.

Step Three: Slowly and carefully twist the breast with your hands, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. Be careful not to put too much tension on the breast.

Step Four: Use both hands to apply several, moderate-pressure compressions to move out more fluids.

Feel free to experiment with the first two movements and find what is comfortable for you.