Manual Lymphatic Drainage in London, A Gentler Way to Heal
If you're searching for Manual Lymphatic Drainage in London, you're likely looking for relief from something specific: persistent bloating, puffy legs, stubborn fluid retention, hormonal swelling, chronic inflammation, or that heavy, sluggish feeling that no amount of rest seems to shift.
At Abuelita's Wellbeing CIC, we offer MLD in London as part of a holistic, integrative approach to healing, not as a quick fix, but as a deeply restorative therapy that works with your body rather than against it.
You'll find us in two carefully designed studios:
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MLD Hackney, Hackney Downs Studios
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MLD Islington, Tileyard London
Both spaces are calm, welcoming, and designed to help your nervous system soften the moment you walk in.
What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MDL)?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a specialised, hands-on therapy that uses slow, light, rhythmic movements to encourage the natural flow of lymph fluid through the body.
Unlike a deep tissue massage, MLD doesn't rely on pressure. It works through gentle, precise stimulation of the skin and superficial lymphatic pathways, supporting the system in your body responsible for immunity, fluid balance, detoxification, and healing.
MLD is a slow, rhythmic, and highly specialised treatment that works with the lymphatic system, a vital part of your immune and circulatory systems responsible for moving lymph fluid, reducing swelling, and helping remove waste and toxins from the body.
Most clients describe the treatment as deeply calming, and are often surprised by how powerful something so gentle can feel.
Price: 60 minutes £90 | 90 minutes £ 130
Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
MLD can help you to:
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Reduce retained fluid
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Improve circulation
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Calm inflammation
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Support immune function
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Encourage detoxification
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Regulate the nervous system
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Improve recovery and healing
Who Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage treatment for?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) treatment is especially supportive for people experiencing:
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Fluid retention
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Puffiness and swelling
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Heavy, tired legs
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Chronic inflammation
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Stress and nervous system dysregulation
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Fatigue and sluggishness
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Poor circulation
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Immune system support
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Hormonal bloating
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Chronic pain conditions
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Recovery after periods of stress or burnout
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General wellbeing and deep relaxation
Please note: At present, we offer classic Manual Lymphatic Drainage and do not currently provide post-operative MLD (you can book with us 6 weeks after a surgery at this stage)
PRICE: 60 minutes £90 | 90 minutes £ 130
Our Integrative Approach
At Abuelita’s Wellbeing CIC, we rarely see the body as one isolated symptom.
Fluid retention, inflammation, tension, and fatigue are often connected to stress, lifestyle, hormones, nervous system overload, and chronic patterns in the body.
That’s why Manual Lymphatic Drainage is often combined with:
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Nervous System Regulation Support
For clients who want deeper, more sustained support, we offer Integrative Care Packages , thoughtfully curated combinations of therapies designed to work together over time.
What clients say
"Simona and her team at Abuelita's are some of the best there is!! The treatments I've had have been amazing. It's great to know that not only are you investing in yourself at Abuelita's, but you are helping to support the wider community with their initiatives."
Alison
Alison
"I went to Abuelita’s Wellbeing after a stressful time and I had the most amazing massage. I went in feeling stressed, tense and with my head all over the place and walked away joyful, relaxed and myself again. The place, smell and design and kindness I have experienced was amazing"
Beatrice
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Meet Your Therapist
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is offered by Simona Ilincariu, an experienced therapist who brings deep care, knowledge, and a gentle therapeutic approach to this work.
Her treatments are designed not only to support physical symptoms, but also to help the body feel safe, supported, and able to regulate.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, MLD is extremely gentle. This is not a deep tissue massage. The pressure is light, slow, and rhythmic. Many clients find it deeply relaxing.
Traditional massage focuses on muscles and tension. MLD focuses on the lymphatic system, fluid movement, circulation, and nervous system regulation.
They work very differently and can complement each other beautifully.
Yes, this is one of the most common reasons people book. MLD can help reduce water retention, puffiness, and feelings of heaviness, particularly in the abdomen, legs, and face.
This depends on your symptoms and goals.
Some clients feel significant relief after one session, while others benefit most from a short course of treatment as part of a wider wellbeing plan.
We often recommend starting with 3 - 4 sessions for deeper support.
No, not at all. While it is commonly known for post-operative recovery, MLD is incredibly valuable for stress recovery, inflammation, fatigue, swelling, nervous system support, and general wellbeing. At present, we focus on classic Manual Lymphatic Drainage rather than post-operative treatment.
Absolutely. Many of our clients combine MLD with massage, craniosacral therapy, Pilates, and nutritional therapy for a more complete and long-lasting result. Check our integrative Care Packages here.
Important Information Before Booking
Manual Lymphatic Drainage may not be suitable for everyone. If you are pregnant, recovering from surgery, or living with certain health conditions, we strongly recommend checking with your GP, consultant, or healthcare professional before booking.
It is advisable to seek GP or Consultant referral and take the suggested precautions if you have any of the following conditions:
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Diabetes
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Low blood pressure
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Lymphoedema
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Kidney problems
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Heart failure
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Cancer
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Thyroid problems
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Bronchial asthma
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Epilepsy
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Removal of the spleen
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Organ transplant history
Your safety always comes first, and we want to ensure this treatment is fully supportive of your individual circumstances.
Book Your MDL Session
If you’re not sure whether Manual Lymphatic Drainage is right for you, we’re happy to help.
You can book a session directly for what your body may need most. If you have any questions or you are post-op (minimum 6 weeks), please email us at info@abuelitas.co.uk
Sometimes the body doesn’t need more force.
Sometimes it needs gentleness, movement, and space to heal.
