While conquering the highways, our focus often stays on the miles ahead, the diesel in our tanks and the deadlines set on our cargo.
However, there’s a vital system that deserves similar regular attention — our lymphatic system.
What is the lymphatic system?
This network of tissues and organs is a key player in our body’s defense team, helping us maintain our peak health during those long hauls. So, let’s pull over for a wellness break and dive into why it’s essential to gear up our lymphatic system, especially when we’re behind the wheel most of the day.
Navigating the lymphatic highways
In the grand road map of our body, the lymphatic system is a lesser known — but equally important — highway. Its main cargo? It’s a fluid called “lymph,” which carries protective white blood cells throughout our body. These white blood cells are like roadside assistance, rescuing us when viruses or bacteria attack our body. The lymphatic system also helps drain excess fluids and debris from bodily tissues, keeping our health engine running smoothly.
Lymph: The unsung hero for truckers
Ever wonder why your feet or ankles seem more swollen after a day-long haul? This is where our lymphatic system is tied to a trucker’s life on the road. During those long hours of sitting, the lymphatic flow can become sluggish and fluid can build up, leading to swelling and discomfort.
Fret not; this is where our conversation takes a positive turn, just like every winding road under your trusty rig’s wheels.
5 detours to lymphatic health
There’s good news ahead, highway stars! We can actively take the driver’s seat in managing our lymphatic health. Here are five simple, achievable ways to boost your lymphatic system even when you’re on the go.
- Move it to Improve It.
While trucking involves lots of sitting, every rest stop is an opportunity for movement. Try some stretches, quick walks, or Mother Trucker Yoga poses to kickstart your lymphatic flow. Remember, movement is your body’s best friend. Even the most minor actions can make a difference! Try doing 10 squats with a heel raise three times a day to get your body’s lower lymph flowing for optimal health.
- Hydrate for the Long Haul.
When it comes to determining the importance of fluids for your rig’s engine and other systems, you’re better than any computer program. The same goes for your body! Be sure to keep a water bottle in reach — and sip regularly. Staying hydrated helps keep your lymph fluid moving smoothly. Start small, and let your body adjust to your new love of hydration. One extra bottle a day keeps the kidney doctor away!
- Breathe easy.
Few things are as refreshing as the feeling of crisp air against your face on an open road. In your cab, try deep, slow belly breathing — inhale positivity, exhale stress. This kind of breathing stimulates the lymphatic system and helps drain toxins. Try four slow counts on the inhalation and six to eight slow counts on the exhalation for five to six rounds.
- Snack smart.
We all love a tasty snack on the drive, right? But how about we make intelligent choices at the next fuel break? Opt for nutrient-rich, natural foods that support your lymphatic system, like fruits, veggies, and nuts. Pre-bag your nuts and fruits for easy access and to avoid overeating.
- Lace up for a lymph-lovin’ walk.
When your wheels are parked and you’ve got a minute, hit the pavement for a simple walk around the lot. It’s like a power-up for your lymphatic system, moving that fluid and grooving like your rig on an open road. Remember, 32 laps around your tractor and trailer are roughly a mile. Every extra step counts!
Remember, road warriors, every small change signals an investment in your well-being and empowers you to stay firm on the journey. Keep these tips in your traveler’s guide, and remember to focus on your lymphatic health as much as you focus on that wide-open road ahead.
Here’s to you, your truck, and your health: Let’s keep on truckin’ on the journey to wellness!
Hope Zvara is the CEO of Mother Trucker Yoga, a company devoted to improving truck drivers’ fitness and wellness standards. She has been featured in Forbes and Yahoo News, and is a regular guest on SiriusXM Radio. Her practical strategies show drivers how they can go from unhealthy and out of options to feeling good again.
