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FULL CIRCLE VITALITY
VALERIE DUPREE, LMT, CLT, CMLDT, CFT
Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Therapist
Certified Lymphedema Therapist
Licensed Massage Therapist
Certified Fitness Trainer
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Recognizing Early Signs of Lymphatic Congestion
Lymphatic congestion can quietly affect your health long before you notice serious symptoms. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in removing waste and toxins from your body. When it slows down or becomes blocked, it can lead to discomfort and other health issues. Recognizing the early signs of lymphatic congestion helps you take action before problems worsen. Understanding these signs is especially important if you are recovering from surgery or managing chronic health
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
13 minutes ago3 min read


Understanding Lymphatic Congestion Causes: A Path to Better Healing
When I first started exploring lymphatic health, I quickly realized how crucial it is to understand what leads to lymphatic congestion. This condition can quietly affect your body’s ability to heal and maintain wellness, especially after surgery or during recovery from illness. Today, I want to share what I’ve learned about the causes of lymphatic congestion and how recognizing them can empower you to take better care of your lymphatic system. What Is Lymphatic Congestion and
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
2 days ago4 min read


Recognizing Symptoms of Lymph Congestion: A Guide to Understanding Your Body’s Signals
Written By Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT When I first started learning about lymphatic health, I was surprised by how often lymph congestion goes unnoticed or misunderstood. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining our body’s fluid balance and immune defense. Yet, many people don’t realize that when this system is sluggish or blocked, it can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Recognizing these early signs can make a significant difference in r
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jun 234 min read


The Pain That Wasn't Mine: Somatic Empathy in Massage Therapy
For years, I simply referred to it as "sympathy pain." It was the only term I had for it. As I've continued learning and growing within my profession, I've come across other descriptions such as somatic empathy, empathic pain responses and energetic transference. Regardless of the terminology, the experience itself remains the same: occasionally, I feel something that seems to mirror what my client is experiencing.
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jun 156 min read


Recognizing the Signs of Lymphatic Congestion Symptoms
When I first started learning about the lymphatic system, I was amazed at how crucial it is for our overall health. This network of vessels and nodes works quietly behind the scenes, helping to remove toxins, waste, and excess fluid from the body. But sometimes, this system can become congested, leading to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Recognizing the signs of lymphatic congestion symptoms early can make a significant difference in recovery and wellness. Understanding
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jun 134 min read


Full Circle Vitality - Your Wellness Studio in Columbus Ohio
When it comes to healing and wellness, finding a place that truly understands your needs can make all the difference. Specialized care, especially in lymphatic therapy, is essential for those recovering from surgery or managing medical conditions. Full Circle Vitality, a wellness center in Columbus Ohio that has become a beacon of hope and healing for many. Discovering a Wellness Center Columbus Ohio That Cares Walking into a wellness center can sometimes feel overwhelming, b
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jun 134 min read


Lymphoma and the Lymphatic System Understanding the Connection & the Role of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
When people hear the word "lymphoma," they immediately think of cancer. What many do not realize is that lymphoma is actually a cancer of the lymphatic system itself - a vital network responsible for fluid balance, immune function, and the transportation of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. Because lymphoma directly affects the lymphatic system, many patients have questions about swelling, lymphatic congestion, and whether manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is safe or appropr
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jun 26 min read


Your Sense of Balance Is Built on Stone: What Ear Crystals Have to Do With Vertigo & Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Most people are surprised to learn that the body uses tiny mineral crystals to help orient us in space. These crystals, called otoconia, are made primarily of calcium carbonate. They live inside the inner ear, where they help the brain understand gravity, motion and the position of the head. These microscopic crystals begin forming before birth and continue to change in density and shape throughout life. Under normal circumstances, they remain attached to a specialized membra
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
May 195 min read


Cellulitis After Surgery
Following procedures such as liposuction or other surgeries, the body is in a vulnerable healing state. Understanding the signs of cellulitis can help ensure early treatment and safe recovery.
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Apr 143 min read


Creating a Trauma-Informed Medical Massage Practice
In today’s world, understanding the impact of trauma is crucial for any healthcare provider. As a licensed massage therapist, certified manual lymphatic drainage therapist, and certified lymphedema therapist, I am committed to ensuring my clients feel safe, respected, and empowered during every session. My practice is built on the foundation of trauma-informed care, and I strive to create an environment where healing can take place without fear or discomfort. What is Trauma-I
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jan 17, 20253 min read


CVI Management with Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is a prevalent vascular condition characterized by impaired blood flow from the legs back to the heart, leading to symptoms such as swelling, pain, and varicose veins. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), a specialized massage technique, has emerged as a beneficial adjunct therapy for managing CVI. Understanding Chronic Venous Insufficiency In CVI, vein valves malfunction, causing blood to pool in the lower extremities. This venous stasis result
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Sep 11, 20242 min read


How Will I Feel After a Lymphatic Drainage Massage
How You May Feel After a Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Everything You Need to Know When you hear the words "lymphatic drainage massage," you might picture a relaxing spa treatment or something akin to a good old-fashioned detox. While it's true this therapy is incredibly soothing, it’s also a powerhouse for your body’s overall health and wellbeing. As the leading authority on lymphatic drainage therapy in the area, we’ve seen firsthand how life-changing this treatment can be. B
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Sep 4, 20244 min read


What is Lymphoid Tissue?
This guide elucidates the anatomy and physiology of lymphoid tissues, their roles in immunity and fluid balance, and how they interact.
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Aug 28, 20243 min read


Contraindications for Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage has gained significant recognition for its role in promoting lymphatic circulation, reducing swelling, and supporting overall wellness. However, like any specialized therapy, it comes with contraindications (CIs) that must be respected to ensure client safety and optimal outcomes. What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage? MLD is a gentle, non-invasive massage technique that encourages the movement of lymph fluid through the body. By ta
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Aug 21, 20243 min read


What to Expect During a Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) Session
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a specialized therapy performed by a certified medical therapist. It's designed to support the lymphatic system, a critical part of your body’s immune and detoxification processes. If you’re new to MLD, you might be curious about what actually happens during a session and how it benefits your body. At Full Circle Vitality practice, we’ve refined the traditional German Vodder MLD method and incorporated modern techniques along with complement
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Aug 14, 20243 min read


You’re Born with More Bones than You Have as an Adult
You’re Born with More Bones than You Have as an Adult Did you know that babies start life with around 270 bones , but by the time they reach adulthood, that number decreases to 206 ? This happens because many of the smaller bones, like those in the skull and spine, fuse together as you grow. These fusions make the skeleton stronger and better equipped for adult life. The Longest and Strongest Bone: The Femur Your femur , or thigh bone, is the longest and strongest bone in you
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Aug 7, 20242 min read


The Lymphatic System’s Gates: Unlocking the Secrets of Fluid Flow
The lymphatic system is a marvel of efficiency, quietly maintaining fluid balance, supporting immunity, and removing toxins from the body. One of its most fascinating features is how lymph fluid moves through its network of vessels and nodes, guided by "gates" that regulate its flow. What Are Lymphatic Gates? These gates are tiny one-way valves located within lymphatic vessels. Their purpose is to ensure lymph fluid flows in one direction—toward the heart—while preventing any
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jul 31, 20243 min read


"The Cracks in Your Soul Aren’t Weaknesses; They’re Where the Light Finds its Way In."
The quote, "The cracks in your soul aren’t weaknesses; they’re where the light finds its way in," offers profound insight into the human condition, resilience, and growth through adversity. Let’s explore its layers, origins, and implications deeply... 1. Interpretation of the Quote At its core, this quote challenges conventional perceptions of weakness and imperfection. The "cracks" symbolize the flaws, wounds, and hardships that life inevitably brings. However, rather than
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jul 24, 20243 min read


Decoding Menopausal Migraines: What’s Going On and How to Tame the Beast
Ah, menopause. The great hormonal reshuffle —a stage that brings freedom from periods, but sometimes with a side order of headaches that feel like your brain is staging a mutiny. For many women, entering menopause means facing an uptick in migraines or severe headaches. Why? Let’s break it down and uncover how you can work with your body (and maybe a skilled practitioner) to tackle these debilitating episodes. The Physiological Chaos Behind Menopausal Migraines To understand
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jul 17, 20244 min read


What is Lymphatic Fluid?
Ever wonder what lymphatic fluid actually is ? What’s swirling around in it, why it’s there, and why it’s not considered lymph until it’s inside the lymphatic system? Let’s break it down: lymph is a powerful fluid that cleans up your body’s tissues, keeps your immune system running, and yes—drains all that cellular “garbage” out of your body. What Is Lymph, Really? First things first: no fluid is considered lymph until it’s officially inside the lymphatic system. Every cell
Valerie DuPree, LMT, CMLDT, CLT, CFT
Jul 10, 20244 min read
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