This traditional technique, often called “Honey Tapping,” is a brilliant marriage of manual lymphatic drainage and the unique physical properties of honey. Unlike a standard massage, which involves sliding over the skin, the “sticky-tap” focuses on vertical lift, creating a gentle vacuum effect that reaches the superficial lymph vessels just beneath the surface.
The Benefits of the Honey Sinus Tap
The effectiveness of this method lies in the “recoil” created by the honey’s viscosity:
- Micro-Suction: As you pull your sticky fingers away from the skin, it creates a tiny suction force. This rhythmic pulling helps “unstick” stagnant lymph fluid and encourages it to flow toward the drainage points.
- Vibrational Resonance: The rapid tapping creates a subtle vibration that can help loosen the thickened mucus trapped within the maxillary sinuses (located behind the cheekbones).
- Skin Warming: The action increases local blood flow, warming the sinus area and helping to thin the “heavy” fluids that cause facial pressure.
- Reflexive Drainage: The repetitive stimulation of the nerves on the face can signal the body to begin the natural process of sinus clearance.
Raw Honey Lymphatic Pump
This ritual is best performed over a sink, as the honey will become slightly milky or “frothy” as it picks up skin impurities and moves the fluid.
Ingredients & Supplies:
- 1 teaspoon Raw, thick Honey (the stickier, the better—clover or wildflower honey works well)
- A headband to keep hair away from the face
- Warm water and a soft cloth for cleanup
Instructions:
- Preparation: Wash your face with warm water to open the pores and pat dry. It is essential that the skin is dry so the honey can achieve maximum “grip.”
- The Application: Dab a small amount of raw honey onto the pads of your index and middle fingers. Apply the honey to your cheekbones, starting right next to the bridge of your nose.
- The “Sticky-Tap”: Press your fingers firmly against the skin and then “snap” them away quickly. You should feel the skin lift slightly with your fingers.
- The Rhythm: Continue this rapid tapping, moving slowly outward along the cheekbone toward the ears, and then back again toward the nose.
- Timing: Perform the tapping for 2 minutes. You may notice the honey turning a white, creamy color; this is a sign that the suction is working and the honey is interacting with the skin’s moisture.
- Cleanup: Once finished, rinse your face with plenty of lukewarm water. The honey will dissolve instantly, leaving the skin feeling warm and the sinuses often feeling “lighter.”
A Thoughtful Tip: After the honey tap, it is helpful to drink a glass of warm water and gently tilt your head from side to side. This encourages the newly “awakened” lymph fluid to continue its journey down through the neck and out of the system.
