EmpowerHer Wellness with Morgan Ekovich
Welcome to EmpowerHer Wellness with Morgan Ekovich, the go-to podcast for busy women looking to transform their health and wellness. Each episode delivers actionable advice on fitness, nutrition, and self-care, helping you build a balanced, sustainable lifestyle. Whether you're starting your journey or enhancing your routine, Morgan and her expert guests provide the motivation and insights you need to create a stronger, more confident version of yourself—all in quick, impactful episodes designed to fit into your busy life.
EmpowerHer Wellness with Morgan Ekovich
064 | Unlocking Your Body's Detox System: The Power of Lymphatic Health with Kjersti Vandesande
Do you feel puffy, sluggish, or like you’re holding onto tension you just can’t shake? You’re not alone. The term "lymphatic drainage" is buzzing in the wellness world, but what does it actually mean, and is it something you should be doing?
In this episode, Morgan sits down with Kjersti Vandesande, a licensed massage therapist with a decade of experience in physical therapy, to demystify the lymphatic system. Kjersti breaks down this vital "second highway" in our body in a way that’s easy to understand. She explains why everyone—from the busy mom sitting at a desk to the highly active athlete—can benefit from supporting their lymphatic health.
Discover the crucial difference between a general "lymphatic massage" and medical-grade "manual lymph drainage," and learn how these practices can offer profound relief for everything from inflammation and arthritis to overall lethargy. Plus, Kjersti shares a simple but powerful breathing and stretching technique you can do right now to get your lymph moving.
About Today's Guest - Kjersti Vandesande
Kjersti Vandesande, Licensed Massage Therapist, Osteopathic Bodyworker, Lymphedema Massage Therapist, Yoga Teacher, and Transpersonal Coach, has studied the art and science of healing the body through functional movement, therapeutic hands-on modalities, energy work and emotional mastery for over 14 years. She began her career in Physical Therapy, Yoga and Shamanism for the first ten years of her career and transitioned to massage therapy almost 5 years ago. Today she owns and operates a small, soulful and thriving business in Haslett Michigan, True North Wellness.
What You’ll Learn:
- A simple explanation of what your lymphatic system actually does and why it’s crucial for your immune function and overall health.
- The critical difference between a "lymphatic massage" and medical-grade "manual lymph drainage" (and who should seek out which).
- Why both sedentary and highly active lifestyles can negatively impact lymphatic flow.
- How MLD can be a powerful tool for managing pain and swelling from conditions like arthritis.
- A simple, effective breathing and stretching technique you can do at your desk to stimulate your lymphatic system.
- What osteopathic massage is and why Kjersti calls it her favorite, most effective style of healing touch.
- Tips for finding a qualified bodywork professional who is committed to continuing education.
Resources & Links:
🔹Work with Kjersti
🔹Kjersti’s Instagram
🔹True North Wellness MI Facebook
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🔹Email Morgan directly at Morgan@GetFitwithme-morganekovich.com with the subject line "KICKSTART" to know more about her 90-day program or "BLUEPRINT" to create your 2026 health plan.